How a Big, Lovable Magnum Became Minki’s Eben Pet-Etzebeth

‘I truly believe my dad had a hand in bringing him into my life when I needed him most.’ Johannesburg, South Africa (10 May 2026) – When he arrived... The post How a Big, Lovable Magnum Became Minki’s Eben Pet-Etzebeth appeared first on Good Things Guy.

May 10, 2026 - 15:12

How a Big, Lovable Magnum Became Minki’s Eben Pet-Etzebeth

‘I truly believe my dad had a hand in bringing him into my life when I needed him most.’

Johannesburg, South Africa (10 May 2026) – When he arrived at Woodrock Animal Rescue, he was underweight, frail and suffering from seizures. Little did anyone know, he was exactly where he was meant to be. Fate had plans to introduce him to his forever.

Magnum, or Eben Pet-zebeth as he’s now affectionately called, is a big, loveable Boerbel cross Mastiff. After being rescued by Woodrock, he was referred to Johannesburg Specialist Veterinary Centre for an ultrasound to examine his heart, and further testing.

It was there where he met his Minki. She’s the centre’s receptionist and a certified trainer, and she’d been fighting a battle of her own. Just months earlier, she had lost her dad. Not long after, a beloved pet had passed away from liver cancer. Still grieving, she didn’t think she was ready to open up

“Eben, formerly known as Magnum, came into my life through Woodrock Animal Rescue in a way I can only describe as fate.” says Minki, as per Woodrock.

Fate had already stepped in. Minki found herself spending more and more time with him, while he was receiving doggy physio and recovering.

“And within minutes of spending time with him, I knew. There was something different about Eben. Something undeniable.” she says “…I kept finding my way to the back kennels… just to see him.”

It was love. Minki started the adoption process with Woodrock and was approved. Soon, Eben was home with his new forever family – his mom, and his now best friend (more than 30 times smaller than he is!) a yorkie named Batman.

“Looking back now, I truly believe my dad had a hand in bringing him into my life when I needed him most.” she shares. “Magnum became Eben Pet-zebeth my baby boy, my companion, my heart.”

Eben is now living his best life. The Lion King is his favourite movie. He and his bestie have matching outfits. He goes on long walks with family. He’s been given the all-clear on his health, and is almost double the weight he was when Woodrock rescued him!

“Eben is a magnificent 68kg gentle giant with a personality that fills every corner of my life with joy. He has helped me heal in ways I never thought possible. Honestly, I don’t know where I would be without him. He had a full check up at the vet and got the all clear ‘Dr said maybe a little less treats.’”

Life has a funny way of bringing us just what we need, exactly when we need it.

“People talk about fairy tales… but this feels like living in one. Because of Eben, I know that true love exists. I see it in his eyes every single day. He is my soul dog. And I will be forever grateful that he found me.” Minki says.