By Shannon-Lee Beukes, adoptions manager at Animal Welfare Society of South Africa
Five years ago, when I started working at the Animal Welfare Society of South Africa as an Inspectorate Controller and Switchboard Operator, I was still learning the ropes and settling into my new role. During those early weeks, I volunteered my time assisting the adoptions manager and quickly discovered how rewarding animal welfare work could be.
One rainy day, I received a call about a puppy trapped in a drain at one of our neighbouring businesses, WBHO. The weather was terrible, and the little dog was soaked, frightened and completely helpless.
A Tough Start to Life
When he arrived at the Animal Welfare Society, I immediately felt drawn to him. Our hospital team examined him and delivered heartbreaking news. The puppy was suffering from both parvovirus and ehrlichiosis. He was severely underweight, weak and refused to eat for days.
To be honest, there were moments when it seemed unlikely that he would survive.
Our veterinary team worked tirelessly to give him every possible chance. They went above and beyond to provide treatment, monitor his condition and nurse him back to health. During that time, I spent as much time with him as I could. Every day, I sat with him, encouraged him and quietly hoped he would find the strength to keep fighting.
The Turning Point
Then one day, everything changed.
After days of refusing food, he finally started eating. It felt like a breakthrough. From that point onward, we began to see small but meaningful improvements. Day by day, he grew stronger and healthier.
As his health improved, his personality started to shine through. I began training him and quickly realised how special he was. He loved meeting visitors and had a remarkable ability to put nervous dogs at ease. His gentle nature and friendly personality made him a favourite among staff and visitors alike.
Becoming the Society’s Mascot
It wasn’t long before management noticed him too. They recognised that he had something unique and decided he would become the Animal Welfare Society’s mascot.
He embraced the role perfectly.
Whether he was greeting visitors, interacting with other dogs or simply brightening someone’s day, Ponzo had a natural gift for making people smile. His journey from a desperately ill puppy to a confident and loving companion inspired everyone who met him.
Finding His Forever Home
When I eventually moved into my own home, there was never any doubt about what would happen next. Ponzo had become such an important part of my life that leaving him behind was never an option.
After everything he had overcome, I wanted to give him the loving forever home he deserved.
Today, Ponzo is more than just a pet. He is family.
A Bond Like No Other
We are completely inseparable. He is a gentle, loving and incredibly patient dog who has become the best big brother to my two-year-old child. Watching them grow together has been one of the greatest joys of my life.
His personality is as entertaining as ever. He loves running, jumping and showing off tricks whenever treats are involved. He is particularly fond of chicken, cheese and eggs.
He also has a funny habit of refusing to let me go to the bathroom alone. No matter where we are, he insists on following me. If I try to hide from him, he somehow always manages to find me.
Looking back, it is hard to believe that the terrified puppy rescued from a flooded drain is the same confident, happy dog sleeping on my couch today.
Ponzo’s story is a reminder of why animal welfare matters. With compassion, dedication and a second chance, a life that once seemed destined for tragedy can become a story filled with love, hope and happiness.
Meet Ponzo
Pet name: Ponzo
Age: Approximately four years old
Breed: Cross-breed
Favourite treats: Chicken, cheese and eggs
Favourite hobbies: Running, jumping and performing tricks for treats
Fun fact: Ponzo refuses to let his owner use the bathroom alone and will always find her, no matter where she hides.
What Is Ehrlichiosis?
Ehrlichiosis is a disease caused by bacteria from the Ehrlichia genus, which are transmitted through tick bites. The disease affects animals and can cause symptoms such as loss of appetite, weight loss, lethargy and fever. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential, and with proper veterinary care many dogs are able to make a full recovery, just like Ponzo.
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