Kempton Park SPCA saves donkey after hole rescue

A donkey that became trapped in a deep hole was safely rescued thanks to the quick response and teamwork of the Kempton Park SPCA.

SPCA’s senior inspector Duan Coetzee responded to a call reporting that the animal had fallen into the hole and was unable to climb out on her own.

“When I arrived, it was immediately clear that this was not going to be an easy rescue,” said Coetzee.

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“The donkey was unable to free herself, and it was going to take careful planning and teamwork to get her out safely.”

The donkey’s owner explained they were unaware she had wandered away. Fortunately, they were working from home and heard the commotion, allowing them to respond quickly and call the SPCA for assistance. They remained with the animal until help arrived.

The owner also told inspectors that the hole is normally covered and was unaware that someone had removed the covers.

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Coetzee said incidents like these are a reminder that accidents can happen unexpectedly, even to well-cared-for animals.

Additional members of the Kempton Park SPCA team soon arrived to assist with the rescue. Working together, they carefully lifted the donkey out of the hole without injury.

“There were plenty of smiles, relief and even a few tears of joy when she stretched her legs, stood up and happily walked back to her stable,” Coetzee said. “We’re sure she was wondering where her well-deserved carrots were.”

The SPCA thanked everyone who assisted with the rescue, saying the successful outcome demonstrated what can be achieved when people work together to protect animal welfare.

“Every rescue matters. Every life matters,” Coetzee added.