Written by Hellen White, founder of Hellen – Working in the Community
Professional photography by Jacqui L. Photography
Rexie was owned by foreigners who decided at the eleventh hour that he was no longer needed and had to be gone as soon as possible. And so they called me. Fast forward four years and it’s Rexie who does the rescuing for those who need him.
Volunteer Linda Hanna drove through peak-hour traffic to get him to safety. The small black French poodle was scared and bewildered, with a face of anxiety peeking out from amidst his curls; he had not been treated or cared for very well at all.
Good friend and fellow animal rescuer Dana Wainman took him in until he was homed with another little rescue named Pixie to a wonderful lady. Unfortunately, she later took ill and was forced to move in with family. So it was that one of my regular foster moms, Belinda Hageman, kindly offered to take Pixie and Rexie in – and they have both grown in leaps and bounds.
Today, Rexie is a therapy dog at the special needs school where Belinda teaches. Belinda and her family are absolute gems, and Rexie couldn’t be in better hands, lending a helping paw wherever he can.
A FRIEND IN NEED IS A FRIEND INDEED
By Belinda Hageman, Rexie’s owner
I’ve been fostering for Hellen White for almost six years, caring for dogs that have just had operations, need rehabilitation, or those in need of some extra attention. And recently I started teaching at a school for special needs children.
I believe that every dog deserves to belong to a loving family, to be part of a family, to have a warm safe place to sleep and, of course, to feel love. Since I was a child, I’ve always had a love for animals and wanted to work for them. I inherited this love from my dad and my grandfather, and every school holiday I would be on the farm, interacting with animals as much as I could.
He is the one
Little Rex and his friend Pixie came into my care last year after their owner got very ill. At first, Rexie was very shy and scared, but I soon noticed that he loved following my daughters around and being with them. He clearly wanted to be part of a family and he definitely liked children. Rex is really such a special boy and so gentle.
I started taking Rexie on walks and made sure he became a big part of the family. Soon, he was playing and running around; enjoying life again.
I used to take my Labrador, Shadow, to school to go and teach the kids about dogs and how to take care of them. Sadly, Shadow passed away early in 2018 and I was heartbroken. But the kids at school kept asking me: “When is your doggie coming to visit? We want to play!”
I took one look at Rex and knew he was the one. He is gentle and he is calm; h!e loves children… perfect!
Children and dogs
There are so many kids who are scared of dogs; children who’ve never touched or seen a dog before. Letting them meet a friendly, calm dog like Rexie is great for them.
One little girl was so happy to see, feel and touch Rex and asked dozens of questions while she was lovingly holding him. Another child was amazed that Rex is a French Poodle – he’d only seen pictures in books – so he took a photo of Rex so he could show his mom.
I talk to the children, let them interact with Rexie, and explain how to care for their animals. They’re taught that they need love, fresh water and food every day and that any pet must be part of the family – cats, birds, dogs… all of them. Being able to see and get to know Rexie helps them to understand these things.
I’m proud that all three of my own children each have their own rescue dog and that they love animals so much.
With the support of my children, my husband, and Hellen White I’ve learnt so much about dogs; I’ll always try my best to help and care for those that do not have a voice.
To me, any animal is special – I don’t care if they’re old, deaf, blind, fat, thin, scared or friendly. They all need their own family to love and to be loved by.
About Hellen – Working in the Community
Hellen White works in the impoverished communities south of Johannesburg, including Bellavista, Turffontein, Forest Hill and Naturena. She helps with top-up feeding, sterilisations, primary healthcare, and more. Find out more about Hellen and her amazing work in our article: Hellen – Working in the Community http://www.happytailsmagazine.co.za/news-articles/you-can-help-us/hellen-working-in-the-community/
