About Us.
Redemption Dogs Rescue and Rehab is a dedicated non-profit animal welfare organisation focused on rescuing and rehabilitating dogs across the Western Cape and beyond.
Our shelter offers a safe haven for animals rescued from neglect, abuse, and abandonment. Guided by a pro-life philosophy, we provide each dog with the highest standards of care, addressing both their physical and psychological needs.
Beyond our rescue efforts, we engage in community outreach to educate and support pet owners, fostering a compassionate community committed to the humane treatment and holistic welfare of all animals.
Behavioural rehabilitation is at the heart of our organisation. We believe that the emotional scars inflicted on dogs are as devastating as the physical, and that every dog—regardless of breed or past trauma—deserves a shot at redemption!
Through our comprehensive approach to rescue, rehabilitation, and education, we strive to create a world where every dog is valued, cared for, and given the opportunity to lead a joyful life.
Our Vision and Mission
At Redemption Dogs Rescue and Rehab, we envision a future where communities are united in their commitment to the humane treatment and holistic welfare of all animals, fostering empathy, understanding and kindness in every interaction.
Redemption Dogs Rescue and Rehab is dedicated to transforming lives—both canine and human. We rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs in need, addressing not only their physical needs but also their emotional and psychological scars.
Our mission extends beyond rescue. Through comprehensive behavioural rehabilitation, we address the deep-seated traumas that affect not only the dogs but also the community. Emotional scars in dogs can manifest as behavioural issues, leading to abandonment or abuse, perpetuating a cycle of suffering and neglect. By healing these dogs, we aim to break this cycle and create a ripple effect of compassion and understanding.
We believe that educating the youth and broader community about the emotionality and sentience of dogs fosters a more empathetic and caring society. By teaching the importance of addressing dogs’ emotional needs alongside their physical ones, we cultivate a culture of respect and kindness that extends to human relationships as well. This holistic approach enhances the welfare of dogs and nurtures a community where people treat each other with greater compassion and respect.
Meet the Team.
Michelle Mohr
Founding Director

As a certified animal welfare inspector and accredited member of the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers, Michelle Mohr brings a wealth of experience in animal welfare to Redemption Dogs.
Michelle’s passion for understanding canine behaviour and advocating for the underdog was ignited when her childhood Staffordshire Bullterrier was stolen for dog fighting. Though they were reunited, the trauma left a lasting impact, and witnessing her dog’s mental decline was something that had stuck with her throughout her life. Something she vowed to change.
Thus was born her lifelong commitment to helping the misunderstood.
Described by her mother as a “feral child” who grew up running wild with the dogs on the family farm in the horticultural area of Philippi on the Cape Flats, Michelle says it’s only natural to dedicate her life to giving back to the community that raised her.
Redemption Dogs Rescue and Rehab was founded in loving memory of her late grandmother—a community leader in animal rescue—and her late dogs, Oliver and Sebastian, whose legacy continues to inspire her work.
Monica Van der Merwe
Alternate Director

Monica van der Merwe brings her expertise in website and media design, along with a strong foundation in digital marketing, to the Redemption Dogs team. With a passion for using her skills to create meaningful change, Monica is dedicated to improving the lives of animals through her work.
Inspired by her own rescue pets—a dog named Kylo and three cats—she made the shift to full-time animal welfare in 2021. Since then, Monica has been focused on supporting organizations like Redemption Dogs, eager to contribute to the ongoing improvement of animal welfare and help build a better world for all animals.
Ridhaa Kamaldien
Non Executive Director

Ridhaa Kamaldien brings a diverse skill set to Redemption Dogs, with a background in both the travel and tech industries. Specializing in tech start-ups and business operations, Ridhaa has helped many small businesses get off the ground by ensuring all paperwork and admin duties are in order. His practical approach and expertise make him an invaluable asset to the team.
Ridhaa also serves as the voice of reason, providing a healthy balance to the often over-enthusiastic animal activists at Redemption Dogs. His years in hospitality and tourism have equipped him with the compassion, charisma, and interpersonal skills necessary to navigate the human side of animal rescue, which can sometimes be just as challenging as the work with animals.
At home, Ridhaa’s cat, Shadow, is full of personality. Though Shadow isn’t particularly fond of Ridhaa, he loves being brushed, groomed, and cuddled—just not while sharing a bed! Shadow prefers the cold couch in summer and the cozy fireplace in winter, leaving Ridhaa to enjoy his quirky companion from a comfortable distance.