Parkhurst dog shot – R40 000 raised, search for shooter ongoing
Efforts to locate the shooter continue, with authorities and the community working tirelessly to bring justice.
A peaceful morning walk in Parkhurst turned into a tragedy on November 13, when a passerby shot a beloved Africanus dog named Bruno.
Bruno was out enjoying the park with his dog walker, Dennis, when he sensed something amiss, growling and barking at a man passing by.
Community rallies
His dedicated team of vets is conducting numerous scans and tests to determine if surgery will be necessary. With overwhelming community support, over R40,000 has been raised through Backabuddy, covering Bruno’s immediate care needs and potential treatment ahead.
Parkhurst residents have shown extraordinary solidarity, not only with Bruno but also with his walker, Dennis, who is receiving trauma counselling from a local volunteer.
What happened?
The suspect pulled out a gun and fired at Bruno. The assailant quickly fled towards Delta Park, leaving the community in shock. Nearby residents immediately rushed Bruno to Craighall Park Veterinary Clinic, where he was treated and stabilised. Despite his survival, Bruno remains in critical condition and now faces further surgery at Bryanston Veterinary Hospital, where he was transferred for specialist care.
The bullet wound was severe but, fortunately, missed Bruno’s lungs. However, the need for an emergency operation has prompted a funding appeal to cover an estimated R15 000 in additional medical costs. Support has poured in from Parkhurst locals, with a Backabuddy campaign raising more than R33 500 to date, settling his initial vet bills.
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Ward 117 councillor Tim Truluck issued a statement reminding residents that, while local parks are typically safe, caution is still essential. “This appears to have been a case of bad timing and perhaps a nervous criminal. Walkers and park-goers should stay vigilant,” Truluck said, urging locals to avoid carrying valuables in public spaces.
As Bruno fights to recover, the Parkhurst community is rallying behind him, with further donations encouraged to support his life-saving operation.
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