Neglected dog found after disappearing during SPCA investigation
The Brakpan SPCA’s persistence paid off as the missing dog was located and is now receiving urgent care.
A dog that disappeared from a local property during an ongoing welfare investigation by the Brakpan SPCA has been safely recovered following a determined search.
Vida, whose name means “life”, was found in Benoni over the Freedom Day long weekend. As recently reported by the Brakpan Herald, the local society opened a criminal case following Vida’s disappearance.
According to the society, inspectors responded to a complaint where they discovered Vida in a severely neglected state.
After following legal procedures and issuing instructions to the owner, officials returned the next day to assess Vida’s condition, only to find that she was no longer on the premises.
The owner allegedly refused to disclose the whereabouts of the dog. SPCA inspector Mariska Venter then registered a case with the Brakpan SAPS.
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“Inspector Mariska never stopped looking. Despite the heavy workload and the uncertainty surrounding our SPCA’s future, she refused to let Vida’s story end in a disappearance. Over the long weekend, the trail led us to Benoni,” the SPCA stated.
“When we finally obtained an address, distance didn’t matter. Our good friend inspector Thomas Mohlake at the Benoni SPCA stepped up the moment Mariska called, helping us secure Vida and bring her back to the safety of our kennels.
“This is what animal rescue looks like – late nights, long drives, and a refusal to give up.”
Vida has since been examined by a veterinarian. She is underweight and requires ongoing care, including proper nutrition and monitoring, as she begins her recovery.
The SPCA has reiterated its essential role in responding to animal welfare cases, including investigations, rescues, and legal follow-ups.
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The society, however, continues to face financial constraints that impact its ability to operate effectively.
An appeal for donations has been made to assist with Vida’s medical treatment and to support similar rescue efforts.
The banking details for donations are:
- Bank: Standard Bank
- Account name: Brakpan SPCA
- Account number: 020 922 094
- Branch code: 012 042
- Reference: VIDA and your surname
Proof of payment: fundraising@brakpanspca.co.za
The SPCA has urged the public to support its work in protecting animals and ensuring cases like Vida’s have a positive outcome.
