Serval saved after being hit by car
The RandWest SPCA assisted in the rescue of a Serval after it was found by a passerby.
The RandWest SPCA had to step in and assist in saving an injured Serval found along the N12 recently.
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According to RandWest SPCA inspector and manager René van Straten, a police sergeant contacted the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinarian Hospital in Midrand when he came across a Serval while riding on his bicycle. The RandWest SPCA was the nearest and he then called for assistance.
The fact that the Serval couldn’t stand up and try to get away was a big concern.
“We loaded her into the bakkie to better establish what was going on. We suspected she might be pregnant. We saw she was still aware of her surroundings and fought back as a wild animal should,” said René.
They gave her an injection for the pain and rushed her to the vet in Midrand.
On the evening of April 24, it was established she had a head injury as well as fractures in her pelvis and femur, but ‘there is still hope for recovery’. Two out of the three cubs she was pregnant with have been confirmed alive.
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René mentioned many animals are run over on that road, however, the Serval is a unique occurrence.
To motorists, she advised them to be aware of their surroundings.
If an accident occurs do not drive away, stay with the animal and call for help immediately.”
She added it helps if you have a blanket or a piece of clothing you can throw over their head to keep them calm.
“If you are in a position to take the animal to the nearest vet or SPCA, please do. If you are however unsure of how to deal with their injuries, rather call and keep the animal calm,” she said.
At the veterinarian hospital, they are trying to keep human interaction to a minimum so the Serval doesn’t get used to humans. She isn’t being hand-fed and only handled for medical reasons.
Her release back into the wild would all depend on how fast she recovers and whether or not there will be more complications during birth.”
René expressed her gratitude towards the Wildlife Veterinarian Hospital.
“They are always available to help and they also rely on donations.”
