After months of patience, perseverance and continuous feeding, two of the last remaining roaming dogs displaced by the destruction of the former Plastic City informal settlement have finally been brought to safety.

The pair had taken refuge at the Weltevreden Landfill Site, surviving harsh conditions and uncertainty after losing their original home.

For months, volunteers from SPOT- Sunny’s Pet Outreach Team worked to gain their trust, ensuring they received food and slowly building a bond that would eventually allow for safe upliftment.

The female, now named Sasha, was the first to be successfully secured on the afternoon of February 13. However, her male companion, affectionately renamed Tai (previously called Tiger or Bomba by some security personnel at the site), proved a bit more cautious than initially anticipated.

“After we uplifted Sasha, it became very clear how bonded the two dogs were,” said Sanette Bosman, director of SPOT.

“Tai remained in the area, but you could see he was unsettled without her. We knew we had to try again.”

On Valentine’s Day, the SPOT team was determined to reunite the pair. Their persistence paid off when Tai was successfully trapped, bringing an emotional chapter to a close.

“When Sasha saw Tai again, it was a heart-melting moment. Her entire body wagged, not just her tail. It was pure joy. Moments like that remind us why we never give up,” said Bosman.

Both dogs are now safe at the Boksburg SPCA, where they are receiving care, nourishment and much-needed attention. They will be made available for adoption, either together or separately, once cleared.

“Having survived such difficult circumstances, we truly believe they are destined for a happy ending,” Bosman added.

SPOT’s work in the area is not yet complete.

The organisation is currently monitoring reports of a pregnant female dog that has been repeatedly spotted nearby.

Food is being placed regularly while the team investigates whether she may originate from the neighbouring Msholozi informal settlement.

Additionally, two remaining dogs in the Anzac Circle area, one black and one brown, continue to be fed daily and are the next priority for safe rescue.

“Our commitment doesn’t end with one success story. We remain dedicated to ensuring that every vulnerable animal in the area is given the opportunity for safety, care and dignity,” emphasised Bosman.

Community members who wish to assist SPOT are encouraged to make contact via their social media platforms.

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