Ark Animal’s special boy
CHARTWELL - Ark Animal Centre is home to a very special rescue case who goes by the name of Hippo.
Candice Eilertsen of Ark Animal Centre said Hippo was found at eight-weeks-old running fearfully around Mnandi.
“The moment he was brought into the shelter we knew there was something wrong with him,” she said.
Hippo was taken to Palm Gardens Vet where after several tests, veterinarians concluded that he had been kicked or hit on the head with a very hard object.
He was diagnosed as being badly brain damaged on the right side of his brain.
Eilertsen added that while the head trauma had affected his behaviour he was also very loving and affectionate.
“His attention span is quite short and his favourite past time is chasing his tail in a circle. He loves the outdoors and chases imaginary butterflies and snakes around the garden all day.”
Eilertsen suggested that the best home for Hippo would be one in which the owners were very patient. “He is fine with other dogs and cats but ideally he needs to mix with dogs his own size or bigger.”
One of the volunteers of Ark Animal Centre has started a nutrition treatment programme with Hippo. Everyday he is fed sardines which contain Omega-3 fatty acids that help with brain activity. Eilertsen said since the treatment started they have noticed a huge improvement in his behaviour. “He is able to focus for longer periods of time and is even more affectionate,” she said.
