SPCA Inspector Theo Arendolf had to go fishing to successfully rescue three dogs who seem to have slipped into a dam that was rising after much-needed rain.
Cape Town, South Africa – Cape Town’s rainy season has started, which means the dams can start filling up again. One dam just off Old Strandfontein Road in Cape Town began to fill quite rapidly after the rains experienced recently.
Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA Inspector Theo Arendolf was sent out on a call on the 22nd of May to assist three dogs who had ended up in the dam. He didn’t think his day would start with a fishing expedition, but thankfully it did.
“Theo was called around 7:30 am to assist with 2 dogs needing urgent help – somehow they had managed to find themselves trapped in a dam near Old Strandfontein Road.
Assisted by Collections Officer Andisile Booi, Inspector Theo arrived at the location at 8 am where it was clear that the dam in question was filling up fast following the previous night’s rain.”
Andisile and Theo carefully made their way around the dam, which had very slippery banks to find two very cold dogs balancing precariously on water drums which were resting against the dam wall. There was no indication of how long they had been there, but they were very nervous when Theo approached.
With a lot of patience and gentle reassurance, Theo was able to bring the scared dogs to safety. During the last stages of the rescue, a third dog appeared and came running towards Theo and Andisile. The dog slipped on the bank and ended up in the dam.
“Not missing a beat, Theo was able to rescue the small dog from harm’s way and she quickly joined the other two dogs which were recovering in safety.
With winter weather now in full swing, our dedicated Inspectors will be sure to see many more animals needing their help, especially as they seek shelter from the elements.”
The CoGH have asked the public to report any animals in need by calling them on 021 7004158/9 or after-hours on 083 326 1604 – alternatively to email inspectorate@spca-ct.co.za