Staff Writer
CAPE of Good Hope SPCA Inspector Siyabonga Mbukutshe has been hailed for his heroic efforts after pulling a dog to safety from the middle of a flooding canal in the pouring rain.
The terrified dog was clinging desperately to debris in the canal in Lotus River on Thursday, when the SPCA arrived on the scene after being alerted by City law enforcement officers.
Mbukutshe jumped into action with the help of cadet inspector Lwazi Ntungele, law enforcement officers Chuma Mpengesi and Sindi Mathews, as well as Water and Sanitation representative Jack Ocane.
Mbukutshe jumped into the white water current, harnessed in protective gear provided by Water and Sanitation, to rescue the distressed dog.
The dog clawed on for dear life to the extent that all four of his paws were bloody from trying to hold his position above water, said the SPCA.
“I did not even think twice. I saw this dog needs urgent help or it would be swept away by the current and drown. Holding the lifeline connected to the harness, with the assistance of all parties present, I was able to battle the current and reach the tired, distressed dog just in time.
“While I was in the deep water, I was struggling to walk and keep my direction towards the dog. The current was pushing me in a different direction. Once I reached the dog, he was shivering and clearly eager to be rescued,” said Mbukutshe.
He picked up the dog from the debris island, and with baby steps he made his way back to safety.
“Once we reached safety, I did my best to make him feel safe.”
The rescued dog was taken to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA hospital for veterinary intervention and treatment.