LOCKDOWN SEPARATED US ALL FROM THOSE WE LOVE
Dragon with Inspector Theo Arendolf at the SPCA
And this was no different for the members of our homeless community , only many of them had to leave their only companions behind while they sought a safe haven in one of The City of Cape Town ’ s temporary shelters .
We can only imagine how painful this must ’ ve been for pet owners like Francois and his bestie Dragon . Dragon is an old boy and he has been Francois ’ loyal companion through the many challenges our homeless communities face . Dragon had never left Francois ’ side and Francois has done all he could to ensure that Dragon was well cared for . There is no doubt that when there was insufficient food for two , Dragon was the one who got the meal .
Dragon had also been neutered and he was in excellent health - there was no doubt that these two shared a bond that could never be broken . We all know the “ empty leash ” feeling we get when we ’ re left holding the leash after we ’ ve had to say goodbye to a furry best friend and so we understood Francois ’ pain as he said goodbye to Dragon . He stood awkwardly holding his leash while we loaded Dragon into our vehicle . His heart must ’ ve been breaking but Francois put on a brave , reassuring smile for Dragon as we drove away . We made sure that these two met again , it was not a goodbye for them - just see you soon my old friend .
The SPCA worked closely with The City of Cape Town during this heart-breaking time and we were honoured to take in and care for the much-loved companions of the homeless community . All dogs were microchipped to facilitate their return to their owners and while we shared the heartache of all the owners who had to place their companions into our care , we also shared in the joy of many happy reunions in the months that followed .
Reunifications were so touching to witness
Francois watching us drive away with his best friend Dragon
The SPCA at the site where the homeless community where collected to be transported to temporary shelters
44 FOOTPRINTS 2020