Dogs start new beginnings after traumatising ordeal

Two dogs that lost their owner in a brutal farm attack in July have been adopted into separate loving homes. Leah and Chloe were left homeless on July 20 after their owner, an 81-year-old man, was murdered by intruders, with his wife seriously injured and hospitalized.

Animal shelter Wetnose stated that after enduring the trauma of the Cullinan farm attack, where their family was targeted and they were left homeless, Leah and Chloe have now found caring homes. Both dogs witnessed their owners being assaulted and were also subjected to physical harm, with Leah sustaining a deep shoulder laceration.

“Upon discovering this distressing scene the following day, family members contacted us for assistance with the dogs. Chloe was eventually caught after numerous attempts, but Leah remained elusive. After an extensive search, Leah was eventually captured three days later,” explained Wetnose.

Leah underwent immediate surgery to address her deep laceration, followed by an extended period of emotional rehabilitation. The shelter noted that both dogs initially displayed fear-driven aggression, requiring six weeks of patient effort and plenty of treats to rebuild trust and confidence.

Due to the emotional toll on their bond, the dogs were not adopted together. They have since embarked on separate journeys in nurturing environments. Wetnose observed during their rehabilitation that Leah and Chloe struggled to be in close proximity, often engaging in conflicts if too near each other.

“Their emotional wounds were deep, but with time and compassion, they began to trust again, each in their own space,” Wetnose added.

Leah and Chloe will now have the opportunity to continue healing in their new homes, thanks to the dedication of the shelter’s team and the backing of the community. Wetnose highlighted that many other dogs, like Leah and Chloe, are still awaiting their chance for a fresh start.

For information on adoption procedures or to offer support, contact the center at 082 677 8084. Additionally, a 37-year-old man, Andries Komane Sello, was arrested on July 25 and charged with murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, and possession of stolen property.

Sello appeared in the Cullinan Magistrate’s Court on August 12 but withdrew his bail application, remaining in custody pending trial. National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana confirmed the details of the attack, which occurred on July 20 at Plot 2 Louwsbaken in Cullinan.

According to Mahanjana, witnesses found the elderly man deceased on the farm, with his wife injured inside the house. Sello was apprehended at his residence on July 25, where stolen items were recovered.

For further details on this story, please contact us at [email protected] or call 083 625 4114. Stay updated with breaking and community news by visiting Rekord’s websites, such as Rekord East, or following us on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Source: The Citizen