LIMPOPO – A beloved pet in Mbaula village, Star, was missing for 12 days after the devastating floods before finally returning home.

Helping All Animals in Rural Towns (HAART) has described its survival and return as nothing short of a miracle.

“When Star made his way back home, he was severely weakened, reduced to half his usual body weight, jaundiced, and covered in sores. Veterinary examinations revealed that he was suffering from babesia and ehrlichia, both tick-borne diseases. His yellow-grey gums and eyes indicated that his liver had been severely compromised,” said Sam Keegan, founder of HAART.

Star received immediate treatment at Tamboti Animal Clinic in Phalaborwa and is currently under the care of HAART, where he is undergoing rehabilitation.

While his condition remains serious and he is not yet out of danger, HAART has asked communities to keep Star in their thoughts and prayers as they continue to hope for his recovery.

“This super sweet boy has made it this far and is an absolute miracle,” said Keegan. “Please consider donating to help us during this incredibly tough post-flood period. We have already seen double the number of severe cases requiring veterinary care and surgeries compared to any other month in our history. Your support, love, kindness, and generosity enable us to help animals who would otherwise suffer or die without our intervention.”

Donate through BackaBuddy or by calling 060 621 2038 for more information.