Puppy rescued from drain in Dawn Park
Terrified squeals from a drain led to a race against time and a tiny life saved.
A tiny puppy was rescued from a narrow drain opening in Dawn Park following an intense operation by the Boksburg SPCA on December 17.
According to Boksburg SPCA inspector Ralph Chivaviro, the emergency call was received the previous evening from a distressed family whose adult dogs had dislodged a plastic grate covering a drain, causing the puppy to fall into the small opening below.
“Our driver attended the scene and assessed the situation but quickly realised that additional help was needed. We contacted the fire department, but they were unable to assist as they no longer offer that service,” said Chivaviro.
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Field officers Jabu Manchidi and Tshepo Sithole were dispatched early the following morning.
Upon arrival, they found that the opening was extremely narrow, making access difficult. After assessing the situation, the team began removing parts of the concrete drain to reach the trapped puppy, which could be heard squealing from below.
After nearly two hours of hard labour, the owner was eventually able to reach into the narrow pipe and safely retrieve the puppy, believed to be between two and three weeks old.
The rescue was met with relief and celebration from both the family and the SPCA team.
Field officer Sithole examined the puppy on site and confirmed that there were no visible injuries. The puppy was washed and returned to the relieved family.
During the visit, the SPCA also provided education on the importance of sterilisation.
Arrangements were made for the adult dogs to be sterilised in January, while the puppy will be booked in once it reaches the appropriate age.
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The Boksburg SPCA has appealed to the public for support during the festive season, reminding residents that donations help keep inspectors and field officers on the road, ready to respond to emergencies involving animals in distress.
Community members who wish to support the society can contact the Boksburg SPCA on 067 409 4267 or 083 763 631.
