Westlake couple rescues five trapped kittens
Westlake residents and animal rescuers celebrate a heartwarming rescue after five kittens were saved from a rooftop and wall cavity. Pictured from left: Leanne Gericke (Aid4Aid), Julie Marzio (Fur-Get-Me-Knot), Enrico Hanslo, councillor Carolynne Franklin, Louise Hanslo, and Colleen Louw (Aid4Aid).
Image: Supplied
A Westlake couple’s quick thinking and compassion saved five newborn kittens after they were found trapped in the roof and walls of their home.
On Tuesday, October 21, Louise and Enrico Hanslo heard faint meows coming from their ceiling - an unexpected sound as they don’t own any pets.
When they investigated, they discovered that a cat had given birth in the roof space.
With no sign of the mother and the kittens crying in distress, the couple carefully removed sections of the roof to reach them and rescued three tiny babies.
But the meowing didn’t stop. More cries could be heard from inside the walls.
Unsure what to do next, the Hanslos contacted Fur-Get-Me-Knot, a local animal outreach organisation that works in Westlake, for advice.
As founder Julie Marzio was too far away to assist immediately, she called Aid 4 Animals in Distress (Aid4Aid) - another Ward 71 animal rescue group - to send help.
“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 had been safely retrieved. Mr Hanslo had taken the initiative to create openings in two walls himself, freeing the remaining two kittens.
Following the rescue, Aid4Aid launched a fundraising campaign to help the Hanslos repair their damaged roof and walls.
“It was the least we could do after they willingly damaged their own home to save those tiny lives,” said Leanne Gericke, vice-chairperson of Aid4Aid, who was also on the scene that night.
The five kittens rescued from a roof and wall cavity in Westlake are now safe and thriving, thanks to the quick action of residents and local animal welfare groups.
Image: Supplied
With the support of councillor Carolynne Franklin, the fundraising appeal quickly gained momentum - and within just 48 hours, the target was exceeded thanks to overwhelming community generosity.
“There are moments when the stars align and compassionate, engaged people show themselves,” said councillor Franklin.
“This happened a week or so ago when one of the communication platforms of the incredible Ward 71 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. I am a very proud ward councillor.”
As the target was surpassed, the additional funds were donated to Fur-Get-Me-Knot to support their ongoing animal welfare work in the area.
“These funds will go a long way in helping us continue our efforts to feed, vaccinate, deworm and care for the animals in the community,” said Ms Marzio.
The kittens were later brought back for a visit with their rescuers, where the Hanslo's were told about the community’s fundraising efforts.
“We were completely surprised by the generosity and support of the community,” said Ms Hanslo. “We have no words to describe our gratitude. We’re just happy the kittens were saved and that we could be part of their story.”