Happy Hunter (previously known as Astro)

Written by Howlelujah Foundation Founder: Miquel Bisogno

Photography by Benita de Klerk

Astro’s journey began the day his family made the difficult decision to surrender him.

Within the first few days of coming into Howlelujah Foundation’s care, we noticed that something wasn’t right. Astro was diagnosed with Ehrlichiosis, a serious tick-borne illness that had already taken hold.

Treatment began immediately, but while he was still fighting to recover, a second blow followed:

Astro was diagnosed with parvo.

For a puppy so young and already weakened, the odds against him were heavy. Progress came slowly and in small moments – a little more strength, a little more appetite, a quiet determination that never left him. And somehow, Astro kept choosing to fight.

During this time, Astro was adopted by our friends at Langdam Farm, who stepped in with patience, consistency, and so much care. Together with ongoing veterinary support, it became a true team effort to help him heal.

Day by day, Astro began to defy expectations. Strength returned. His spirit followed.

At Langdam Farm, Astro was given a new name – Hunter – and a safe place to grow into himself. Today, Hunter runs freely, surrounded by other dogs, open space, and people who love him deeply.

He’s healthy. Happy. Home.

Astro’s story is a reminder that rescue is never a solo journey and that, when people come together, even the smallest life can beat the biggest odds.

Benita de Klerk, Hunter’s owner, shares...

When Astro – now Hunter – first came into our lives, he was already fighting Ehrlichiosis. He was skinny and frail, but he had an undeniable appetite for life.

He spent a short weekend visiting Langdam Farm while still in foster care. With eight dogs already in our rescue pack, we had no plans to adopt another. But Astro had other ideas. In those few days, he crept into our hearts, and the thought of denying him the life of a Langdam dog felt impossible. Two weeks later, we officially adopted him, and he returned to Langdam to begin his new life.

That first weekend together was everything we hoped for. He was still skinny from the Ehrlichiosis, but his appetite had returned, and he bonded so quickly with us and his new brothers and sisters. The most affectionate little boy, all he wanted was to spend time with us and give cuddles and kisses.

Then came the hardest chapter: Monday morning our world was turned upside down. Just as he was regaining strength, Astro refused food. We received news from his foster home that they had a parvo outbreak. We took him to the vet immediately and our worst fears were confirmed. He’d tested positive for parvo. He was admitted to the vet and placed in strict quarantine. We weren’t allowed to see him and instead lived through six long days waiting for the vet to contact us with news. Each ping on the phone carried a wave of dread and hope. He was kept on a drip and had to be tube fed daily. The feeling of uncertainty and helplessness was one of the hardest things we’ve had to endure. On day five he finally began to eat on his own. On day six, I received the call that he could finally come home. The relief we felt is hard to describe.

Today, Hunter runs free across the farm, and he’s become a favourite amongst our staff. He’s more than a survivor; he’s a reminder of resilience, love, and the magic of second chances. We love him dearly and we can’t imagine a life without him. He’s a very special little soul full of tenacity, with only love to give.