Written by Marcelle du Plessis – Fundraising & Communications Executive – Mdzananda Animal Clinic
Professional photography by Chasing Light Photography
Hattie came into the clinic after being hit by a car. The vets immediately gave her pain medication and antibiotics and they examined the leg throughout the week. The X-rays showed that she’d sustained a fractured skull and a severely injured back leg; there were too many bones that were broken – literally in pieces – and, sadly, she’d never be able to use the leg again.
They called the owner to notify them about the future of Hattie and were told that they didn’t want a three-legged dog. Hattie was taken into our homeless pet programme... Euthanasia wasn’t an option. We were determined to give her a second chance.
Once her leg was amputated, we found her a foster mum quickly as she needed a home where she’d be able to learn to walk on three legs and a more comfortable place than being kept in a cage.
Amy Howes, Hattie’s foster mum, shares...
Fostering Hattie was an absolute delight and she was born to live! She’s fun, cute and full of personality. She has no fear and plays up a storm with all children and dogs. She loves her food, her bed and a good scratch.
Having three legs doesn’t hold her back for a second. She’s an exceptionally fast little hound and loves cuddles.
Hattie is a German Shorthaired Pointer and a love bug at heart.
Arlene Slabbert, Hattie’s new owner, shares...
My sister and I adopted a stray pup, Luna, over a year and a half ago. She’s full of energy and loves having company, so we decided it was time to find her a friend. When I saw a post about Hattie from my friend’s mom, I just knew she was the one.
We renamed her Nova, which means “a bright star”, because of her shining personality. From the start, she and Luna became best friends. They love chasing each other, playing tug-of-war, and trying to get our shelter cat, Ash, to join in.
Nova has settled in so well, and we’re so happy to have her in our family!
