Written by Lisa Button, Project Administrator, Funda Nenja
Photography by Nomonde Dlungwane, Education Officer, Funda Nenja
This story is about Bandile Ngubane, aged 14, and his dog, Bobby. Bandile’s grandmother recalls that Bandile has always loved animals and, one day, while out with his friends, he came across a friendly brown dog. He showed the dog some love and they ended up playing together. When it was time for Bandile to go home, the gentle dog followed him.
The family expected the dog to eventually return to his original home, but he never did. Months went by and he was still there, faithfully remaining by his adopted owner’s side. Bandile decided to name him Bobby, and then started bringing him to Funda Nenja. According to Bandile’s grandmother, the boy and his dog are inseparable.
Bandile’s mother, Slindile, who enjoys visiting and socialising with her friends, commented that Bobby accompanies her to the taxi rank, returning home when she’s left. She used to be scared of dogs, but she’s now grown fond of Bobby because she can see how much of a positive effect he’s had on her son.
Bobby’s previous owners know that he’s now living with Bandile and are happy he found a new home because they were struggling to take care of him. Bobby’s also said to have many other dog friends, and they and come visit him often (hence the black dog in one of the photos).
Funda Nenja were recently donated a HUGE second-hand dog kennel, so when we asked our Education Officer, Nomonde, for a worthy candidate, she immediately thought of Bandile and Bobby. I think it’s safe to say that Bobby is delighted with his kennel.
We interviewed Bandile, and this is what he said about his dear dog, Bobby…
Bandile said he really loves that Bobby is such a nice quiet dog. He doesn’t chase other dogs – in fact, when they go out together, Bobby actually likes to meet other dogs. The two of them often go out for long walks and meet up with other friends and their dogs. He said they’re famous in their area now as everyone knows him and his dog – and everybody loves Bobby.
He said he enjoys lying on the grass with Bobby, who likes to lie on top of him. He said that his life is better now that he has Bobby as they do so much together and he really loves Bobby. He looks forward to seeing Bobby every day when he gets home from school.
