Westlake residents unite to rescue kittens

When residents of Westlake discovered that a cat had given birth in a roof space, they refused to look away, instead joining forces to ensure the survival of the helpless kittens.

Louise and Enrico Hanslo heard faint meows coming from their roof, which came as a surprise because they don’t own any pets. Upon investigation, they discovered that a cat had given birth in the roof space. With no mother cat in sight and the kittens crying desperately, the couple carefully removed sections of the roof to reach them, rescuing three tiny babies. But the meowing didn’t stop more cries could be heard coming from inside the walls.

The residents then contacted Fur-Get-Me-Knot, a local animal outreach organisation that operates in Westlake, for advice. Too far away to assist immediately, they called Aid 4 Animals in Distress (Aid4Aid), another animal rescue organisation in the area, to mobilise help on the ground.

“Our biggest concern at the time was the kittens trapped between the walls,” said Grant O’Neill, Chairperson of Aid4Aid.

“Getting them to safety was going to require making some holes in the walls.”

By the time rescuers arrived, all five kittens were safe and secure in a warm box. Enrico had taken the initiative to create openings in two walls himself, successfully retrieving the remaining two kittens. Following the rescue, Aid4Aid launched a fundraising drive to help the couple repair their damaged roof and walls.

“It was the least we could do after the Hanslos willingly damaged their own home to save those tiny lives,” said Leanne Gericke, vice-Chairperson of Aid4Aid. 

A fundraising appeal was launched and within just 48 hours, the target was surpassed. 

“There are moments when the stars align and compassionate, engaged people show themselves,” This happened a week or so ago when one of the communication platforms of the incredible Ward71 community came alive with this call to action. The outcomes are beyond one’s wildest expectations as once again we work hand in hand to show the world how we can make progress possible, together,” said local Ward 71 councillor Carolynne Franklin.

As the target amount was exceeded, the additional funds were donated to Fur-Get-Me-Knot to further support animal welfare work in Westlake.

Cape Times