Michelle and Mani: a rescue story across oceans – Part 1
By Michelle Schmanski, Vet Nurse (NZ)
Following my volunteer tenure with SPAW in August to Samoa, I stayed a few days at Coconuts Beach Resort. Every morning, five dogs played on the beach – two owned, three not. One small puppy began following me to my fale each night, curling up beside me and returning every morning for cuddles. He had a painful ear infection, and without medication I could only comfort him.
Back home, I couldn’t stop thinking about him. My husband and I cancelled a planned trip and returned to Samoa instead – armed with ear medication, parasite treatments and dog biscuits. After two days of searching, I finally spotted him. He remembered me instantly, running over on three legs. He was covered in bite wounds and had a serious joint infection. Treating his ear was no longer enough – he needed real veterinary care.
The next morning we found him hiding, and took him to the Animal Protection Society (APS) Samoa clinic. My husband saw how devoted I’d become and asked the vet, Harriet, how we could bring him to New Zealand. The process was complex, but his heartworm test came back negative – meaning it was possible. He was microchipped, started on antibiotics and pain relief, and plans were made for vaccinations and castration. I named him Mani, after his village Maninoa.
Tino from APS offered to care for Mani while we organised everything from New Zealand and waited for his blood tests to be sent to the USA. We paid for his treatments, left money for food, thanked the APS team, and hugged Mani goodbye.
We left Samoa with full hearts, believing we’d see Mani in New Zealand soon.
