Content note: This story includes a description of serious injuries caused by a wire snare and the veterinary treatment required.
Tom Tom, as we came to call him, did more than survive a horrific ordeal. He beat the odds and emerged with a new chance at life.
A rescue that took ten days
When Tom Tom was first spotted, he was running free with a wire snare pulled so tightly around his waist that it had become embedded in his flesh. Concerned members of the community tried repeatedly to catch him, but he remained elusive. For ten days, they continued trying. Then, finally, he was brought into the care of the Kloof & Highway SPCA.
The extent of his injuries was heartbreaking. The wire had cut at least an inch into his thin, emaciated body and had to be removed with great care. Beneath it, the damage was even more severe: the snare had separated his penis from its sheath.
Complex veterinary treatment
Tom Tom’s first surgery aimed to save the damaged organ, but despite every effort, it was unsuccessful. A second operation became his only chance.
In a complex and delicate procedure, our veterinarian amputated his penis and created an alternative urinary opening, allowing him to urinate in a similar way to a female dog. Thankfully, the surgery was a complete success.
His physical wounds, however, were only part of the battle.
Healing beyond the physical wounds
Emotionally, Tom Tom was completely shut down. He recoiled in fear whenever anyone tried to touch him. He would not eat if a person was nearby. When someone looked at him, he turned away and faced the wall.
In all our years of animal welfare work, we had rarely encountered a dog so deeply traumatised. But giving up was never an option.
We gave Tom Tom the space he needed. We gave him time. Most importantly, we continued to offer patience, kindness and care, even when he could not yet respond to it.
Slowly, almost imperceptibly at first, something began to change.
A new beginning
Then one day, Tom Tom took his first steps towards a new life.
Today, he greets each day as though it is the greatest day he has ever known. He has discovered the joy of living, the comfort of safety and the happiness that comes from being loved. Watching his transformation has been extraordinary.
Tom Tom’s journey is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, hope can be restored and even the most broken spirits can learn to trust again. His story stands as a testament to resilience — and to the determination of those who refuse to give up on an animal in need.
Your support helps the Kloof & Highway SPCA respond when animals like Tom Tom need rescue, veterinary treatment, safety and time to heal.
