THE Animal Welfare Society

has praised a group of five Philippi boys for rescuing a Labrador named Champ, found lying in some bushes in the area this week. Dubbed ‘The Magnificent Five’, the organisation plans to declare them animal ambassadors in their community. See page 3

FIVE Philippi boys are unaware of the hero’s welcome awaiting them at the Animal Welfare Society (AWS) today after their valiant effort to save a canine friend.

And to further praise their efforts, the AWS have called on the public to make donations to the boys it has dubbed “The Magnificent Five”, to enable each of them to buy a new pair of shoes, a warm top, and food for themselves and their pets.

The boys, whose names will be confirmed today, had rescued a timid Labrador, named Champ, after finding him lying among bushes on Tuesday. They took it to the AWS so he could receive medical assistance.

Nurse Jaque le Roux said the AWS planned to make The Magnificent Five animal ambassadors in their community, and reward them for their actions to ensure the safety of an animal in need.

“They looked as though they had just crossed the finish line in a marathon, and won first prize. In between hurried breaths they excitedly took turns in proudly explaining that they had found the dog lying in the bushes, and went into great detail about the ingenious plan they hatched to help him.

“At first they whistled and called in the hope that the dog would stand up and follow them but all this gentle old soul could manage was a tail wag. This inspired the group to look for something to lever the dog up, and lead him,” AWS said.

Two of the boys stood guard over Champ while the other three went in search of something that they could use as a makeshift collar and lead. The trio returned with an old leather belt and placed it gently around Champ’s neck.

Champ was led to the AWS, where he is on the road to recovery, and will remain until a forever home is found for him.

“They are due to visit Champ today and we would love to do something special for them for their heroic efforts, which will include a Team AWS T-shirt,” said Le Roux.

To donate, visit Paypal on https://bit.ly/3ihlo0x or donate via the Dogbox Project on www. dogboxproject.co.za

Bank account details: Animal Welfare Society of SA Nedbank Current Account Account number: 114 822 258 8 Branch code: 198765

Swift code: NEDS2AJJ

For more information, send a WhatsApp message to 082 601 1761 or email admin@awscape.org.za