A PRECIOUS litter of pups were rescued and given a second chance at life by Isipingo Pet Rescue after reports of a man selling puppies outside a pharmacy in Shallcross came to the non-profit organisation’s attention.

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Unloved, unwanted and tossed aside by their owner to be sold to passersby on the street, the puppies, now lovingly called Lola, Lilly, Lilo and Archie, are being cared for by Nirvana Ramlall of Isipingo Pet Rescue.

When Ramlall received the disturbing information that a litter of pups were being sold despite their visibly grave condition, she assumed they were stolen. After investigation, the owner was tracked down and they confirmed not wanting them anymore.

“They had sores caused by ticks and fleas, and flies were biting on that. They were full of maggots. When I got them, I had to give them a bath immediately and try and flush out some of the worms. I had to de-flea and de-tick them. Once washed and dried, I took them straight to Westville Vet. Thereafter, I cleaned their sores and medicated them. Their tummies are now full and they’ve got a warm bed and loving home,” said Nirvana.

Merely a few weeks later on February 21, the pups’ health took a dire turn and Ramlall was concerned for their health, rushing them to the Chatsworth Animal Clinic. They were admitted and the vet confirmed that they all had a gut infection, which affected them badly due to their past neglect. Sadly, they had to be taken home the next day as Ramlall did not have the money for treatment. Thus far, she has stomached over R10 000 in veterinary bills, and the pups still needs around R3000 more to get them healthy.

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“They are currently at home with me and are on treatment. The only problem they have is digestive issues and have to be on prescription food, which is costing me an arm and a leg. They are my angels. We’ve been through so much together and I don’t know what I would do if anything happened to them – I might leave rescue. This was a very emotional rescue for me,” she said.

Under the well respected banner of Isipingo Pet Rescue, Nirvana has been working tirelessly to advocate for voiceless animals that desperately need care.

“I feel deeply troubled owing money, but I know these animal clinics believe in our mission. It takes years to build such relationships and I’m committed to finding a way forward that honours our commitment to them and their compassion and commitment to animal care. Social media fundraising efforts have been falling short and I’m struggling to make ends meet and that is why I’m counting on your support. Please help us feel seen and heard during this difficult time. We need your help to continue this critical work. No rescue can succeed without the support of the community. Any amount will be a beacon of hope. Please join me in rescuing these precious souls,” said Ramlall.

If you would like to contribute towards Isipingo Pet Rescue’s cause, donations made to the rescue account are eligible for a section 18A tax exemption certificate. Vet account details are available upon request. For more information or to send proof of payment, contact Ramlall on 062 633 0544 or email petrescueisipingo@gmail.com.

Bank name: Nedbank

Account holder: Pet Rescue Isipingo NPC

Account number:  1251 3373 76

Swift key: NEDSZAJJ

Reference : Vet bills

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