Lost dog transforms a girl’s life in children’s tale

AT THE age of 27, Pretoria-based author Kamogelo Masoga published her third book, a children’s story titled Jane & Ruby: The Interaction Between Humans and Dogs.

- LUTHO PASIYA

The book is written for readers between the ages of eight and 12, focusing on teaching compassion, empathy and responsibility toward animals.

The story begins when a lost dog arrives at the home of Jane, a seven-year-old girl.

Her parents expect her to be happy to welcome the new companion, but Jane carries a fear of dogs due to limited exposure and misunderstanding.

Instead of bonding with the animal, Jane initially mistreats the dog, showing both emotional and physical cruelty.

Her parents intervene, sitting her down for a serious conversation about kindness and the need to respect animals.

From this point, Jane starts to change. She apologises to the dog, named Ruby, and works to rebuild trust.

Small gestures of care gradually lead to a bond between them, and Jane experiences the rewards of empathy and responsibility.

Later in the story, Ruby protects Jane’s father from a dangerous situation, showing courage and loyalty. Jane learns that the love she showed Ruby created a meaningful and reciprocal relationship.