A giraffe attacks couple from Barberton on Valentine’s Day

A well-loved Baberton couple was seriously injured when a young male giraffe suddenly attacked them while they were taking a walk on Valentine’s Day.

BARBERTON COUPLE ATTACKED BY A GIRAFFE

According to a report by the Lowvelder, Barberton Hi-Tech’s Sakkie Dednam and his wife, Yvonne, were rushed to a nearby hospital with serious injuries.

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A friend of the couple told the publication that the couple usually walk through the estate where they live every afternoon.

THE COUPLE TOOK A WALK THROUGH THE ESTATE AS USUAL

They were walking their dogs.

It is believed a young male giraffe suddenly stormed them. It sounds like it kicked them and trampled them.

The couple’s son Eduan said when the giraffe attacked, the dogs managed to run away during the attack.

A YOUNG MALE GIRAFFE SUDDENLY STORMED THEM

The report states that Sakkie could get under a bush at some point during the attack, but Yvonne was not.

Yvonne reportedly sustained some head injuries and a concussion, and the doctors are still busy with her, working on her and carrying out scans. He said a few of Sakkie’s ribs were broken.

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YVONNE SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES AND A CONCUSSION

Eduan confirmed to the publication that both his parents are currently in stable condition, and the whole family is hoping for the best.

According to a report by Getaway Magazine, the best thing to do is to keep calm when encountering a wild animal.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO WHEN YOU ENCOUNTER A WILD ANIMAL?

“Animals respond to body language and can become agitated or confused if you appear panicked. Be on high alert for changes in their behaviour that could warn you that they are unhappy ahead of time.” – The report said.

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MAINTAIN DISTANCE BETWEEN YOURSELF AND THE ANIMAL

It is also incredibly important to maintain distance between yourself and the animal, never cutting off their direction of movement or escape route.

Even docile-looking herbivores can pose a danger to humans if they feel threatened.

EVEN DOCILE-LOOKING HERBIVORES CAN POSE A DANGER TO HUMANS

The report furthermore states that it is best to stay away from mothers and their young, move slowly, and walk or drive away should the animal become aggressive or uncomfortable.

Of course, animals are unpredictable, and even experienced rangers can’t always prevent incidents.

ALWAYS REMEMBER ANIMALS ARE UNPREDICTABLE

It’s important to do your own research and seek professional advice if you know that you will be near wildlife of any kind, especially self-drive safaris where no guides are present. Always follow the rules of the reserve.

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