Following an alarming report of a wounded painted dog yesterday, our Executive Director, Peter Blinston and Senior Tracker Jealous Mpofu headed out to the location. They assessed the situation and identified the painted dog as Francie, the alpha female of the Ngweshla pack. Acting out of sense of purpose to help save a dog in need, Peter darted the painted dog, approximately 40m from the waterhole.

As often with being on the frontline of conservation and dealing with wildlife, every situation is unpredictable, Francie walked into the waterhole leaving Peter with no choice but to follow her. He went into the water to be near her and watched her until she showed signs the drugs were working and then grabbed her. Thus making sure her mouth and nose didn’t go underwater at any time.