A DISTRAUGHT dog owner called JSPCA on Monday, December 7, because the family’s beloved puppy, had fallen into an uncovered sewer pipe in Kliptown.
All they could hear was the puppy crying. Inspectors rushed to see what they could do to assist. They tried checking numerous manholes and could not find the puppy, but they continued to hear her whimpering.
After getting permission, they started digging and extra team members were called to assist. A 1.5 meter deep, five meter long trench was dug, and the sewerage pipes in the property were dismantled, but still they could not get to the puppy and the the sounds of her whimpering could be heard intermittently. Each and every one of the team members said that they would not go home until this little life was safe and sound.
One of the senior inspectors spoke to the surrounding neighbours and luckily some of them allowed the team entry into their properties. At 19:35, a full 10 hours and 35 minutes after the team initially arrived, they managed to get the puppy out through a manhole a few houses down.
The puppy was rushed to the Johannesburg SPCA veterinary hospital, where Dr Leo Manyora put her on a drip for shock and she is now under veterinary supervision.
“Our night orderlies, Godfrey and Norman, kept a watchful eye on her during the night while she was lying on a heating pad. We are extremely pleased that she is responding to treatment and doing very well. Thank you to our amazing team who showed true dedication to animal welfare: inspectors Ronald, Gideon, Trust; farmyard assistants, Temba and Zwaai; Dr Leo and Godfrey and Norman, the night orderlies.
“By donating to the Johannesburg SPCA, you help us help animals in need, just like this puppy who, by no fault of her own, fell into a manmade structure and could not get out. We value your continued support in order for us to help more animals,” said Jolene Beyleveld from JSPCA public relations.
