Update
GEORGE NEWS - He was lost in the mountains and the forest for nearly five weeks and was eventually feared dead by many. But for Jackson the boerboel's owner, Tracey van Heerden, his return on Wednesday 7 December was the best birthday present she could ever wish for.
What exactly he experienced, and how he survived his "outing" will never be known, but Jackson's adventure most definitely united all the animal lovers in George.
Jackson, described by his owners as a "big old puppy-dog", went missing from his home in Heatherlands on Friday 4 November.
Miraculously, after five weeks of non-stop extensive searching on foot and with drones, social media posts and ads in the paper, a tick-riddled and scraggy Jackson was found in Berg Street on Wednesday evening, 7 December.
"I still can't believe our baby is home," said an elated Van Heerden. "Our baby is home! To the whole community of George - you are all amazing people.
Jackson with his 'dad', Tinus, at Vital Vet last Wednesday.
"Nearly five weeks after he slipped out, he managed to find his way back. What an experience it must've been for him. Thanks to each and every person who followed the whole episode and contributed constantly. From drones that came to help search, people who searched for Jackson day and night, to even tracking dogs."
She sent out a special word of thanks to Marlene Mennie of Odin, Kayleigh Botha who started the WhatsApp group, Janke Gerber, Melissa van Vuuren and Sammi Louw for all their assistance, Dr Conrad Kruse of Vitalvet for his excellent service and attitude, and Sharon and Riaan Otto who called them immediately when Jackson came down from the mountain at Fernridge.
"A big, big thank you also to George Herald for all their online posts and notices in the paper. You are awesome. To Kristy Kolberg and Jeff Ayliffe, a huge thank you for your effort and time. But ultimately, we couldn't have done this without our Heavenly Father who looked after Jackson while he was out there. Without our God, we wouldn't have had the strength to keep looking," said Van Heerden.
Under the circumstances Jackson is doing well. He has lost a lot of weight and had to visit the vet every day last week, but he is out of the woods and recovering well.
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