From Rescue Walk to Rewarding Work: Injured Dog's Plight Leads to New Opportunity for Devoted Owner
Virginia, Free State – What began as a desperate 15km trek to save his injured dog, Option, has blossomed into a life-changing opportunity for Sello Mabote. His unwavering devotion to his canine companion has not only touched hearts but has also landed him a job, stability, and a renewed sense of purpose at the very SPCA that came to Option's aid.
Option's story captured the nation's attention last month when Mabote embarked on a gruelling 15km walk to seek help for his beloved dog, whose leg had been shattered in a hit-and-run accident on 22 October.
Moved by his extraordinary commitment, the Virginia SPCA in the Free State offered Mabote a three-month fixed-term contract as a kennel assistant. This allows him to earn a much-needed income for his family while remaining close to his best friend during her recovery.
SPCA chairperson Thea Smit explained that Mabote's prior experience working at K9 kennels, coupled with his inherent compassion for animals, made him an ideal candidate. "He has a deep understanding of animal welfare and compassion, which is needed in our environment," Smit said.
Mabote himself has been deeply moved by the care and support he and Option have received. As a kennel assistant, he now performs daily routines, tending to the needs of the dogs under the SPCA's care.
"My life has changed in a way that I never expected. When I walked the 15km with Option, I wasn’t thinking about anything else besides saving her. I never thought there would be people who would care about us like this, or that I would ever get a job from the SPCA," Mabote told News24.
He further added, "Every day I get to see Option, that alone gives me strength."
"I am very grateful to the SPCA for giving me this opportunity to be this close to my dog. They saw something in me, and I don’t want to disappoint them," Mabote expressed.
Tragically, Option's recovery journey took an unexpected turn. Despite weeks of treatment and initial signs of progress, a relentless foot infection set in after her four-week bandage change.
According to Smit, the infection "tore away the progress she had made, compromising both her recovery and the long-term healing of her fracture".
"Despite every effort, every prayer, every intervention, the infection would not relent," Smit explained.
In a heartbreaking decision, the SPCA made the difficult choice to amputate Option's leg to alleviate her pain and provide her with a genuine chance at a fulfilling life. Smit recounted, "a devastating decision, a devastating outcome, and our hearts broke with Sello’s".
Despite still having stitches, Option is adapting remarkably well to her new life on three legs. Once she receives the all-clear from the veterinarian, she will finally be able to return home with Mabote.
The outpouring of support for Mabote and Option extended beyond the SPCA's doors. Touched by their story, South Africans rallied to donate money to Mabote, ensuring he could afford transportation to visit Option and cover her medical expenses.
Mabote received over R10,000 in direct donations to his sister's account, while the SPCA received more than R6,000 in contributions.
Mabote expressed his gratitude for the generosity, stating that the donations help him travel to work and ensure that Option has everything she needs.
Looking ahead to the festive season, Mabote's wishes are simple. "For Christmas, I just want peace – time with my family, and Option when she comes home. Maybe cook something nice, sit outside, laugh – small things. That’s all I need."
Despite the hardship and heartbreak of the past few months, Mabote believes this Christmas will be his most meaningful yet.
"These few months were hard. But they also showed me that good people still exist. I feel blessed. And Option has a chance at life. That’s all that matters," he concluded. His story serves as a testament to the power of compassion, the unwavering bond between humans and animals, and the transformative impact of a helping hand.
Follow Us on Twitter
