Written by Tinka Shapiro, TEARS Creative Lead
Professional photography Nat Gold ZA
Gus, a beautiful Boerboel boy, was rescued and brought to TEARS Animal Rescue as a result of a joint operation with 1 Kennel at a Time and the Cape of Good SPCA.
TEARS had met Gus once before his rescue when he was brought to the TEARS Veterinary Hospital seeking treatment for ehrlichiosis. When he came to us a second time, sick once again with ehrlichiosis, severely malnourished and underweight, there was no question that Gus would be returned to his owners, who’d clearly been neglecting him.
Beyond his veterinary issues, Gus was very timid and especially fearful of men, but despite being so scared, he was ever gentle. The Kennel Team spent time with Gus, not only to gain his trust but to help him feel more comfortable around people.
His behaviour indicated that he’d suffered neglect, and we did know that he’d been living life on a chain. With kind words and quality time, Gus learned that people weren’t all that bad. He also found two new guy friends in Kennel Manager Luke and Kennel Coordinator Banele.
Kindness counts
Over the weeks, Gus won the hearts of all the TEARS staff, who’d often take their breaks with him, sitting on the ground with him, gently stroking him, and speaking sweet words.
Gus’ confidence grew, along with his weight. He filled out beautifully, and we felt that he was ready to find his forever family.
It was just when Gus was advertised for adoption that Nick Wonfor decided he was ready to look for another Boerboel to join his family, having lost his 14-year-old Boerboel the year before. Nick was looking for dogs available for adoption when he stumbled upon the TEARS website and saw Gus listed on the top row – it was fate!
Nick phoned TEARS to enquire about Gus and arrange a meeting. Learning that Gus was still a bit nervous around men only drew Nick even more to him. He knew that Gus would find the perfect home with him and was willing to work through any insecurities he had.
Making a connection
After meeting Gus and seeing how hesitant he was, Nick was even more determined that he come home with him, as he understood the breed. On the second meeting, Gus was again hesitant until Nick pulled out his secret weapon: liver biltong. Gus quickly decided that Nick wasn’t half bad!
Nowadays, Gus has three doggie friends and still thinks that Nick’s liver biltong is wonderful. He plays all over the house with his new family, and Nick reports that things have gone spectacularly well, and Gus has settled beautifully.
Gus enjoys trips to the field and has wonderful recall. He’s made a new best friend in Rachel, who also lives on the property, and he sleeps most nights at her flat, walking back home in the morning for his morning stretches in the sunshine.
TEARS wishes Gus and Nick the most beautiful life. What a match made in heaven, forged from divine intervention and fate.
