A DOG who survived a horror machete attack in Africa was the star guest at the premier of an Ardrossan film company’s documentary which told the emotional story of his rescue.

As the Herald reported previously, Eddy Gemmell from Ayrshire Film Company (AFC) documented the amazing rescue story of Gongo, a young Tanzanian street dog.

Around 50 people turned up at Irvine’s GRO Coffee on Saturday, November 19 to watch Gongo: My Journey.

The film charts the brave canine’s time recovering at Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue, his journey to Scotland and his remarkable rehabilitation since.
Eddy, who lives in Irvine, told the Herald: “It was very good and people liked the film. It was very well received. There were a few tears, but they were happy tears.

“Gongo’s a super star. He was great with everyone and so friendly. You wouldn’t believe it after the treatment he had in Tanzania. A lot of people were taking selfies with him on the night and he was just taking it all in his stride.”

Gongo has now been living in Scotland with his adoptive owner Phyllis Hutchison for around two months. He recently had extensive dental surgery and is recovering well and has settled in nicely with Phyllis and her two dogs.
But Gongo’s story is not finished just yet.

Eddy said: “The film shown at GRO Coffee was a pilot. We’re thinking about showing more of the African side, to give an idea of what happens in Mbwa Wa Rescue. We’re hoping to premier it in January in Giffnock where Phyllis stays. We might release it.”

It seems that Gongo’s brave story is already creating a legacy. 
Eddy said: “One lady phoned Phyllis after seeing the film and said it had inspired her to adopt a dog from Romania.”

To help with Gongo’s medical treatment, a Just Giving page has been
set up at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/phyllis-hutchison-1