- Happy Tails Langa began when a young boy named Emihle shared his food with a starving pregnant dog, inspiring an animal rescue movement in Langa.
- With the help of filmmaker Katja Moebitz and other volunteers, the NGO now provides food, shelter, and medical care for stray dogs in the community.
- Despite financial challenges, the initiative continues to grow.
An animal rescue movement has taken root in Langa, driven by the compassion of a young boy, Emihle, who shared his supper with a starving pregnant dog.
This single act of kindness has evolved into Langa Happy Tails, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) dedicated to rescuing and caring for stray dogs in the community.
Katja Moebitz, a Rosebank resident and filmmaker, was in Langa shooting a film when she encountered a neglected three-legged dog.
“She was so skinny,” she recalled. “I went home, got a bag of food and came back looking for her and her nine puppies. That’s when I learned about Emihle.”
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Inspired by his actions, Moebitz felt compelled to help. “I put out a plea in my neighbourhood groups because this boy’s kindness needed to be supported.”
Now, she houses 50 dogs at her workshop until permanent homes are found for them, taking on the responsibility of walking nine dogs each morning, a task she admits can be challenging.
“We’re always in need of extra hands,” she said.
Young warriors
Happy Tails Langa, now two years old, provides food, shelter and medical care for stray dogs in a community that lacks proper animal welfare facilities.
Morbitz and her team, including Emihle and other local boys, have distributed more than 50 kennels and regularly collaborate with the Cape of Good Hope SPCA to educate pet owners.
She describes the boys as “young warriors, fighting to bring hope and relief to these dogs.”
Despite growing community support, the initiative faces financial challenges, with the Moebitz family covering most costs. “This project is about more than saving dogs,” she emphasizes. “It’s also about teaching the community about pet care.”
Moebitz is also advocating for sterilisation to curb the stray dog population. Volunteers, donations and foster homes are always welcome to expand the reach of Happy Tails Langa.
- For more, or to get involved, email Happytailslanga@gmail.com
