A three-year-old female Border Collie-cross is recovering at her Daveyton-home, after surviving three gunshot wounds.

On March 28, the loyal furry companion, Boela, became her owner Zwandele Hendriksen’s fierce protector, jumping between him and an armed assailant.

According to information, a group of men approached Hendriksen’s property, accusing his wife of theft.

“The men struck my wife, claiming that she stole from them,” said the 58-year-old resident, fighting back the tears as he spoke.

“They kept on shouting and Boela grew restless. When one of them pulled out a firearm, she became protective.

“The suspect took turns firing shots at me and then Boela. My baby was hit three times, I escaped unscathed.”

Following the altercation, Hendriksen said the assailants left the scene on foot.

“I called the Daveyton police station, I needed help for Boela but they said I must call the SPCA,” he said.

According to Benoni SPCA manager, Thomas Mohlake, Hendriksen was able to make contact with the animal welfare society on March 30.

“Upon arrival we found the animal in serious condition with indications that she is pregnant,” said Mohlake.

“She was rushed to the North Rand Road Animal Hospital, Boksburg for care. She suffered superficial gunshot wounds to the head and throat, while the third bullet penetrated the side, lodging in the spinal vertebrae.”

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In an effort to prevent further trauma and complications to the mother and her pups, it was elected not to operate to remove the bullet.

“Boela was discharged shortly after receiving treatment and is recovering in the care of her grateful owner,” said Mohlake.

“The pregnancy has also not been affected, however, we are in consultation with the owner to be a responsible pet owner in having her as well as her pups sterilised to prevent further litters.”

Still shaken following the incident, Hendriksen said that he is happy to have his canine companion home, but that his heart aches knowing that she is in pain.

“She was born here, I raised her since she was a puppy. She suffered so much just because she was protecting me,” he sobbed.

“I am afraid that the men would come back. This is our only home and criminals came here, threatening our safety.

“I can only thank God that neither my wife nor I were injured or killed. Boela was such a good girl, I pray she makes a full recovery because we owe our lives to her.”

Conducting a follow-up inspection with Boela, on April 2, Mohlake said that the animal is making a miraculous recovery.

“We will be looking into enlisting additional help for the owner in the form of trauma counselling as they are shaken and fearful,” he said.

“Although our priority rests with Boela, we will do our upmost to ensure that her and her owners heal from the ordeal.”

The Daveyton SAPS confirmed that a case of attempted murder as well as animal cruelty is currently being investigated, however, no arrests have been made.

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