Pup beaten with pipe
A Back A Buddy campaign titled ‘Help Apollo’ began on Sunday to help with the vet bills and other expenses relating to this incident.
Eleven-month-old Apollo, a black and white pitbull cross from Pennington was brutally beaten with a PVC pipe on January 4.
According to the dog’s owner, Caillin Whitehead, a case has been opened against the man accused of beating the dog.
It is believed that the dog barked at the accused who then beat him on his head.
Details of this case are limited as investigations are underway.
On the day of the incident, Apollo was taken to Umbilo Veterinary Clinic and had visible facial swelling, especially around his eyes.
As per the vet’s assessment, Apollo’s conjunctiva and sclera were red and inflamed. His left eye was also very miotic.
It was also mentioned that the dog was not aggressive during the examination and that the owner was advised on what clinical signs to watch out for, as brain damage and trauma could not be excluded.
Later that day, Apollo’s facial swelling increased, and he was taken to Westville Vet.
Caillin pleads with the public to assist her with donations towards Apollo’s vet bills and other expenses relating to this incident.
“He is in agonising pain, and his eyes aren’t responding to light. He has swelling on his brain and could possibly lose his one eye,” she said.
“I have taken him to the vet twice on January 4, and he requires further check-ups.”
A Back A Buddy campaign titled ‘Help Apollo’ was started on Sunday, and by Monday afternoon had reached just under R12 000. Caillin’s story about Apollo was initially shared on Facebook where a number of people offered their support as well.
Apollo was adopted by Caillin through SerendiPitty Rescue – a non-profit company and public benefit organisation that specialises in rescuing pitbulls – focussing on their welfare and rehabilitation.
The rescue organisation has since publicly commented on the incident and is assisting Caillin with the case.
Via a social media post, it stated: “It’s a very sad time when a human being feels they have the right to behave this way. We have already contacted our attorney. A case has been opened and a restraining order is in place.”
Caillin is grateful for all the support received so far.
She described Apollo as a ‘sweet and gentle soul’ who is a treasure to her family.
She hopes that her furry friend will receive the best help possible and that justice is served.
If you are able to assist, visit backabuddy.co.za and search for ‘Help Apollo’. Alternatively, contact 065 1753657.
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