Highway snake catcher makes unusual rescue
From rescuing reptiles, to kittens and now puppies, Nick Evans shows he has a heart for all animals in need.
WHILE his mandate is to rescue snakes, Nick Evans, a local snake catcher, also made a rescue of the four-legged, furry kind during a black mamba recovery in Scottburgh recently.
“When we arrived at that call, before I walked into the kitchen where the mamba was, a dog was lying at the doorway.”
“I honestly thought she was dead. She was in poor condition and had flies buzzing around her. Thankfully, she wasn’t. But I could tell she had pups,” said Evans.
After he retrieved the snake, he was introduced to the puppies, which he described as skinny and covered in fleas.
“I asked if I could take them, but the owner said no. I could see in his eyes there was no room for negotiation,” he said.
As he made to leave the area, a lady brought him one of the puppies and told him to take it.
“I think she wanted it to have a chance, because it looked more unhealthy than the others.”
“This little bundle of cuteness was covered in fleas, very skinny, weak and looking rather sad. Mange was taking effect too. She was probably the runt,” said Evans.
He fed and watered the little pup. She was given a bath on her first evening as well as dewormer and flea removal.
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“On Sunday morning, she was a different animal. After a few meals and comfy night’s sleep, she was running around us, just wanting to play, and cuddles!” he said.
He looked after the puppy for the weekend and planned to drop it off at the Kloof and Highway SPCA on Monday, 9 November. In just two evenings, despite choosing not to name her, he had grown attached to the canine and described handing her over to the animal shelter was ‘heart wrenching’.
“Keeping her wasn’t an option now. I trust they will find her a good home,” he said.
If you have a snake in your home or yard, contact Nick Evans on 072 809 5806 or email nickevanskzn@gmail.com.
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