SPCA reports good recovery for rescued puppies
The dogs were surrendered to the care of the SPCA to receive the attention they need. The female dog was located four days after the blaze.
THE six puppies that were rescued from a burning scrapyard in Clairwood earlier this month are reportedly recovering well at the Durban and Coast SPCA.
The organisation issued a statement applauding one of its officers for his swift reaction in saving the puppies that were trapped inside a burning building.
Also read: Puppies saved from Clairwood scrapyard blaze
Inspector Ngcobo visited scrapyard for probe
On the day of the incident, Inspector Sabelo Ngcobo was traveling on the M7 to conduct an inspection at a property in Clairwood which kept several dogs and puppies. While travelling, he noticed a large plume of black smoke in Clairwood.
“As he got closer, his worst fears were confirmed, the smoke was coming from the very property he was on his way to investigate,” said Durban and Coast SPCA in a statement.
Once it was safe to do so, Ngcobo approached the scene commander of the eThekwini Fire and Rescue Services and explained that he was conducting an animal welfare investigation.
“Although no animals had initially been seen, signs suggested dogs were present. Together with an officer, he searched the property and discovered a male dog of about five-months-old and five puppies of about seven to eight weeks old, cowering beneath a shelter, terrified but alive,” read the statement.
The dogs were surrendered in the care of the SPCA to receive the attention they need. Ngcobo located the female dog four days after the blaze, after it fled during the fire.
Also read: Ruff race against time for Blue Bundu Brigade
“Unfortunately, the owners refused to sign her over. She was found with singed fur, a slight cough and a limp. A warning notice was issued and our inspector will return to follow up on whether veterinary treatment had been provided. Should the necessary care not be rendered, further action will be taken,” read the statement.
The Durban and Coast SPCA emphasised that the incident is a stark reminder that animals depend entirely on humans to keep them safe.
“Thanks to quick action and determination, six lives were spared from what could have been a tragic outcome,” read the statement.
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