ANIMAL rescuers are exposed to heartbreaking and often inhumane treatment of animals on a daily basis. However, there’s nothing more fulfilling than rescuing the distressed animal and helping them find a home.Just ask David Hanson from local NPO, Puppy SOS, who recently rescued three puppies, from Verulam and Phoenix respectively.

The pups are currently being fostered by Durban North resident, Penny Toubkin, who helps the local NPO. Bonny, and brothers, Herbie and Harvey, have come along way since their respective rescues.

“The brothers were abandoned and have been hand raised from two weeks old. They’ve recently overcome tick bite fever and have blossomed in the months that we’ve had them. “They are doing what puppies are supposed to do, they are inquisitive and playful. They just need a loving home,” Toubkin explained.

Bonny, who is about six months old was also rescued from desperate circumstances.

“She had severe mange, you wouldn’t say so looking at her now. But because of her experience the boys in the neighbourhood would stone her everytime she was in range.

“She’s still timid and shy, but she’s a gentle soul, which is incredible after what she’s gone through. She just wants to be loved and she loves being cuddled,” she said.

All three of the puppies are cat trained and have been socialised with Toubkin’s dogs.

Puppy SOS founder, David Hanson said he was shocked by the cruelty the pups suffered when he rescued them.

“It’s shocking and you hear stories like this all the time. What we need is loving homes for these pups. They have come a long way since her ordeal,” he said.

• If you would like to adopt the pups email puppysoskzn@gmail.com or visit Puppy SOS KZN Facebook page.