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Dog Rescued from Precarious N1 Ledge in Tshwane

Published

7 months ago

October 18, 2023

A heartwarming display of community spirit unfolded as a dog was rescued from a ledge thanks to residents, a security company, and a Tshwane metro police officer. The dog was discovered on the edge of the Gautrain bridge spanning the N1 highway in Centurion, a region between Johannesburg and Pretoria.

The canine’s plight came to light through social media, galvanising the community into action to save the distressed dog.

Yola Strauss, who saw the post, swiftly alerted community security groups. In a matter of minutes, she received news that help was coming.

Stean Rossouw, affiliated with the security service Counterpoint Risk, was among the rescuers who rushed to the scene. Centurion Concerned Citizens had contacted them at 09:00.

“It appears the dog had been wandering and lost for quite some time,” Rossouw stated, “and seemingly by chance, he found his way up onto the bridge.”

Upon Rossouw’s arrival at the scene, he encountered a Tshwane metro police officer (TMPD) perched on the ledge, earnestly working to coax the dog to safety.

The dog was perched at the ledge’s extremity, the highest point near the highway.

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Compassionate community members gathered nearby with food and water as the emaciated and dehydrated dog looked in dire need.

Rossouw, experienced with handling dogs, possessed a leash in his car. He urged the TMPD officer to descend, enabling him to approach the dog with the leash.

“I could sense the fear as I attempted to secure the leash,” Rossouw recounted. “The dog growled in apprehension, but knowing how to handle dogs, I was determined to get him out of harm’s way.”

Once the dog was secured and safe, community member Lindy Nel took charge to ensure the dog was comfortable and unhurt.

“Rexi,” as Nel lovingly named him, was treated to food, water, and a warm blanket, addressing his immediate needs. She noted that the dog was in good hands.

Rexi spent the night under her care, and the following morning, she brought him to Eldoraigne Animal Clinic. The veterinarian assessed the dog, revealing that he wasn’t a puppy but around three to four years old.

The veterinarian identified several bite wounds on one of the dog’s legs and signs of infection from previous injuries. The dog has now embarked on a course of antibiotics to aid in his recovery.

Nel’s compassionate response and the collaborative efforts of the community saved Rexi from a dangerous situation, and he is well on the path to recovery and a brighter future.

Source: Dog rescued from N1 ledge in Tshwane

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