19/09/2026
Meet Gustav: The Survivor Who Refused to Give Up
"Some souls are too fierce to be broken. Gustav’s story is absolute proof of that."
When Gustav was first brought to our gates, the damage was heartbreaking. He was brutally beaten and kicked by a human—left battered, traumatized, and struggling just to stand on his own claws. For a magnificent rock monitor, that kind of cruelty strips away everything that makes them wild and free.
Our team refused to let that be the end of his story. Twanet Steyn rolled up her sleeves to make sure he received the intensive, round-the-clock care he desperately needed to pull through, with Treasure right there helping out every step of the way.
Together, they gave Gustav everything required to fight back:
Targeted rehabilitation: Specialized heat therapy and crucial calcium support to rebuild his strength.
Nourishment & care: Fresh chicken, clean water, and—most importantly—time, safety, and uninterrupted rest away from human fear.
Slowly but surely, the fierce spirit inside him returned. He got back onto his claws, his strength coursed back, and the day finally came when he looked at us with clear, wild eyes. We knew his time had come. Gustav was recently released into a vast, protected nature conservation area where he belongs—safe, wild, and free at last. 🐾
We Need Your Help to Build the Future
Stories like Gustav’s are why we fight every single day. But to save more animals from cruelty and give them the sanctuary and medical care they deserve, we need your help.
We are currently raising funds to build our brand-new, dedicated rehabilitation center. More space means more specialized enclosures, better medical setups, and a safer haven for wildlife waiting for their second chance.
Please consider donating to help us finish our rehabilitation center:
Organization: Lehodimo Wildlife Rehabilitation centre & Sanctuary
Bank: FNB
Account Type: Cheque Account
Branch Code: 250 655
Account Number: 6278 6794 240
Reference: Gustav / New Build
Get in Touch:
Phone: 072 200 3272
Email: [email protected]
Every share, every rand, and every bit of support helps us heal the next Gustav. Thank you for standing with us and giving South Africa’s wild hearts a voice. 💚
