Python snatches puppy

A large Southern African rock python suffocated a pet Beagle outside a Ballito estate, leaving the pup’s owners severely traumatised.

On Sunday morning, December 28, the Specialised Rescue Unit (SRU) was called out to the eastern boundary of Seaward Estates where the 3.4 metre python had wrapped himself around Alec and Sylvia Mackay’s eight-month-old Beagle.

On their way the SRU contacted Neville Wolmarans from Ndlondlo Reptile Park as the snake would need to be captured and relocated safely.

Alec Mackay said their pup, Summer, had escaped from their garden and got out through the estate fence, which borders Zimbali reserve.

“My son chased after Summer but when he found her the python had already coiled itself around her,” said Mackay.

Carmen Power of the SRU said that due to the size of the 27 kg python a team of at least four people were needed to safely capture and contain it.

“The python was very defensive of its capture. But after a few intense minutes, the snake was captured and the puppy was retrieved. Unfortunately the poor puppy had passed away and there was nothing further anyone could do to save her,” said Power.

The snake was taken to Ndlondlo Reptile Park where it was weighed, measured and fed. It is due to be released back into the wild next week.

Seaward Estate manager Joe Reeler said they regularly see pythons migrating between Zimbali – and in particular the uninhabited section known as “Holy Hill” – and the Seaward wetland areas, all of which are joined open spaces.

The Mackay’s loved Summer dearly. Having rescued her and witnessing her death has been very hard for them.

“The incident affected my wife who has a heart condition and she has been in hospital for treatment,” said Alec.

The public are advised not to attempt to remove snakes themselves. For assistance contact Neville on 082 561 4969.