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Khayelitsha Animal Clinic Celebrates 29 Years of Compassion and Care

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Khayelitsha Animal Clinic Celebrates 29 Years of Compassion and Care

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and shelter is proud to celebrate its 29th anniversary this October, marking nearly three decades of dedicated service to the animals and pet owners of Khayelitsha. What began in 1996 as a simple dog bathing initiative on an open field has since grown into a fully operational veterinary clinic, hospital, and animal shelter, now caring for over 1,500 animals each month.

To mark this milestone, Mdzananda hosted a community dog show, bringing together Khayelitsha pet lovers and their furry companions for a day of fun, celebration, and community spirit. 42 dogs strutted their stuff in front of a panel of four judges, with prizes awarded for various categories. The event was filled with wagging tails, excited barks, and joyful faces, reflecting the deep bond between Khayelitsha residents and their pets.

In addition to the festivities, the clinic ran an educational session for 60 local children, focusing on the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare. The session aimed to teach children how to care for, respect, and love animals – part of the clinic’s broader mission to foster a more compassionate and informed pet-owning community.

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“We are so proud of how far we’ve come,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda. “From humble beginnings to becoming a vital lifeline for pets in Khayelitsha, this anniversary is not just a celebration of our growth, but a tribute to the community, our supporters, and the incredible animals we serve every day.”

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter is a permanent, veterinary-based animal welfare organisation located in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. It offers a range of services, including consultations and treatments, sterilisations and surgeries, hospitalization, mobile clinics and outreach work, animal adoptions and shelter services and pet owner education and advocacy.

With a community-centric approach, Mdzananda’s work is built on partnership, respect, and compassion. The clinic empowers pet owners with knowledge and access to essential veterinary care – improving the lives of both animals and the people who love them.

Mdzananda extends its sincere gratitude to all donors, partners, and supporters whose unwavering generosity makes this work possible. “Your contributions help us continue to be a beacon of hope and health for animals in need,” says du Plessis.

Source: Mdzananda Animal Clinic

500 Extra Pet Sterilisations in Khayelitsha

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500 Extra Pet Sterilisations in Khayelitsha

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter in Khayelitsha will be sterilising and additional 500 dogs and cats in just two months, commencing 29th July 2025, as part of a mass sterilisation campaign to reduce the number of unwanted pet litters in the community. This is on top of their yearly approximate 3000 sterilisations performed in the Khayelitsha and surrounding community.

Sterilisation is one of the most effective ways to address pet overpopulation, reduce the spread of disease, and prevent the suffering of animals born into homes or streets unable to care for them. It also improves pets’ health and wellbeing, preventing certain cancers and infections.

“We are excited to launch this campaign and significantly impact the lives of many dogs and cats and, in so doing, create a better environment for pets and their pet owners in Khayelitsha,” says Samantha Mann, General Manager. “We have been signing pets up for sterilisation for the last few months and educating about the importance of sterilisation.”

Thanks to a significant donation from a granting foundation, Mdzananda is close to its goal but still needs to raise R60 000 to cover the full cost of the project. The Clinic is appealing to the public for 100 people to donate R600 each to sponsor a sterilisation.

“Even if the full R600 isn’t possible, any donation towards a sterilisation will be appreciated,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda Animal Clinic. “Together we can make an enormous difference in the current and future pet population in Khayelitsha.”

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Donations can be made to Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Nedbank, Current Account, Branch Code: 198765, Acc: 1314465147, Reference: Steri + Your Name

Alternatively, visit www.mdzananda.co.za for SnapScan and additional donation portals.

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter has been serving the Khayelitsha community since 1996 and treats up to 1500 animals per month through a hospital, theatre, homeless shelter, mobile clinics and animal ambulance. Education is of great importance, being extended to the community through various outreach programmes to encourage responsible pet ownership.

Source: Mdzananda Animal Clinic 

Be the reason one township pet stays warm this winter

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Be the reason one township pet stays warm this winter

As icy winds and heavy rains sweep through Cape Town, pets in the Khayelitsha township are feeling the full force of winter. The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and shelter is calling on the public to lend a paw by joining its annual Wagging Winter Shoebox drive – a simple and heartwarming way to help township animals stay warm and well cared for.

“Many people want to help but don’t always know how,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda. “With this campaign, you can directly support a pet in need by packing a box of essentials to help them through the cold season.”

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic sees a surge in patients every winter. From hypothermia cases to injuries caused by reckless driving in wet weather, the challenges increase as the temperatures drop.

“Most township pets live outdoors. While many have kennels, there are still too many without adequate shelter. Keeping them warm is crucial to their health and survival,” explains du Plessis.

Despite the challenges, there is a silver lining. “We’ve seen a growing number of Khayelitsha residents actively caring for their pets – buying kennels, leads, collars, and better food,” says du Plessis. “Our clinic and shelter is bursting at the seams, which shows how much more people are prioritising their animals’ well-being. It’s a testament to the impact of our ongoing education efforts.”

To take part in the Wagging Winter Shoebox drive, pack a box full of essentials and drop it off at one of the allocated drop spots listed on https://mdzananda.co.za/make-a-donation/ . Goods to pack in the box include Hills A/D tinned food (for recovering pets), Milko Pup or Kitty Milk (for bottle-fed babies), food, blankets, hot water bottles, cat litter, automatic washing powder (for blanket washing), black bags (for cage cleaning), leads, collars and dog jackets.

If you can’t pack a box but wish to sponsor one, make a donation to Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Nedbank, Current account 1314465147, Branch code: 198765, Reference Box + Your Name or visit www.mdzananda.co.za

“The pets and rescues of Khayelitsha thanks everyone in advance for supporting this campaign to keep the animals warm this winter,” says du Plessis.

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About Mdzananda Animal Clinic
The Mdzananda Animal Clinic is a permanent, veterinary council registered, NPO animal clinic and shelter in Khayelitsha, a township just outside of Cape Town, South Africa, home to 400 000 people (2011 census) and their pets. The reality is that the number is closer to one million people and that there is an estimate of 300 000 companion animals.

The clinic serves over 1500 animals per month through consultations, hospitalisation, general and orthopaedic surgeries, a sterilisation clinic, mobile clinics, an animal ambulance and a homeless pet shelter. Mdzananda has a strong focus on community empowerment and education to ensure responsible pet ownership into the future.

Source: Mdzananda Animal Clinic

Floods Devastate Khayelitsha Leaving Pets in Crisis

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Floods Devastate Khayelitsha Leaving Pets in Crisis

Torrential rains have wreaked havoc across Cape Town, leaving parts of Khayelitsha township submerged under water. Homes are knee-deep in floodwater, and countless pets have been left stranded, shivering, and vulnerable to the elements.

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic, based in Khayelitsha, has launched an emergency response to rescue and care for animals affected by the floods. The organisation’s field team has been working around the clock, wading through flooded streets to find and assist animals in distress.

“We’ve found dogs chained in the rain, cats soaked and hiding under rubble, and families doing their best to protect their beloved pets with the little they have,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda. “It’s heartbreaking and we need urgent support to keep going.”

The clinic is appealing to the public for emergency donations to fund the ongoing rescue and relief efforts. Donations will help provide:

  • Emergency patrols to rescue animals in danger
  • Warm blankets, food, and dog kennels for pets left out in the cold
  • Immediate veterinary care for animals affected by the storm
  • Education for pet owners on protecting animals during harsh winter conditions

In addition to rescuing animals, the team is distributing food parcels, blankets, and kennels to pet owners in need.

“We will continue patrolling during the storm and throughout the winter. We will not let any pet be forgotten,” says du Plessis.

To make an emergency donation, visit www.mdzananda.co.za or donate to Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Nedbank, Current Account 1314465147, Branch: 198765, Reference: storm + your name.

Source: Mdzananda Animal Clinic

This Mandela Day, Give More Than 67 Minutes

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Cape Town, South Africa |  FOUR PAWS South Africa hands over 67 Kennels and care packages with Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayaletsha for Mandela Day.

This Mandela Day, Give More Than 67 Minutes

FOUR PAWS calls on South Africans to give shelter, food, and care to pets in need

Building on the success and heartfelt response of the 2024 Mandela Day initiative, global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS is proud to announce the launch of its 2025 Mandela Day campaign ’67 Kennels of Hope’. A powerful tribute to Nelson Mandela’s legacy of service, compassion, and dignity. This year, we invite South Africans to go beyond symbolic gestures and make a lasting impact on the lives of animals in need.

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Cape Town, South Africa | Site visit to Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha in Cape Town in South Africa, where FOUR PAWS will be giving 67 kennels to the community as part of Mandela Day in July 2024. Pictured is Karabo Masedi and Blackie
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Cape Town, South Africa |  Queen, a Khayelitsha dog, sits on a worn armchair as its community anticipates the “67 Kennels of Hope” project by FOUR PAWS South Africa and Mdzananda Animal Clinic.

In collaboration with Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha, this campaign aims to bring warmth, comfort, and care to 67 beloved pets by providing:

  • 67 dog kennels to protect pets from the elements
  • Nutritious dog food supplies for well-being and vitality
  • Dog collars for their safety
  • Essential tick and flea treatments for continued health

Every recipient animal will be from a home vetted by Mdzananda to ensure they are under the care of responsible pet owners, with up-to-date vaccinations and majority of the pets have been spayed or neutered through the efforts of Mdzananda.

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Cape Town, South Africa | 2025 06 04 | Team members, Bertha Moteane, Karabo Masedi and Tanya van Tonder-Huysamen from FOUR PAWS South Africa walk through Khayelitsha, preparing for the distribution of kennels in their recurring “67 Kennels of Hope” campaign.
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Cape Town, South Africa | 2025 06 04 | A dog seeks shelter in rudimentary structures in Khayelitsha, underscoring the impact of the “67 Kennels of Hope” campaign by FOUR PAWS South Africa and Mdzananda Animal Clinic.

“Working in the heart of the Khayelitsha community, we know the need of animals, especially during winter. One of these is shelter and we are so grateful to FOUR PAWS for partnering with us to provide much-needed kennels to 67 community pets. This will ensure that pets from underprivileged families are kept dry and warm during winter. Even though many people have the opinion that pets aren’t loved in townships, we experience the opposite. People adore their pets; they often just lack education or resources. With this initiative we will be helping people and educating at the same time, ensuring for better pet lives into the future,” says Marcelle Du Plessis, Fundraising & Communications Executive at Mdzananda Animal Clinic

“In the spirit of Madiba, this campaign is about more than giving — it’s about restoring dignity and providing care to animals who mean the world to the families they belong to,” says Fiona Miles, Director at FOUR PAWS. “By supporting 67 animals this Mandela Day, we honour the unbreakable bond between people and their pets — especially in communities where resources are limited but love is abundant.” Whether you’re an individual, corporate, school, or community group, your 67 minutes can become a gift of comfort, care, and dignity.

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Cape Town, South Africa | Tanya van Tonder-Huysamen, a team member from the joint FOUR PAWS South Africa and Mdzananda Animal Clinic initiative interacts with Ben, a dog in Khayelitsha, during preparations for the “67 Kennels of Hope” campaign.

Call to Action

This Mandela Day let’s reinforce the values of respect, empathy, and understanding through collective giving. Together, we can ensure that every pet supported by this campaign receives more than survival — they receive safety, nutrition, and love.

For more information please visit our website www.four-paws.org.za or donate here.

Source: FOUR PAWS

Animal Clinic Demands Justice for Abused Puppy

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Animal Clinic Demands Justice for Abused Puppy

Mdzananda Animal Clinic is calling for public support and justice after a young puppy, named Survivor, tragically died following severe abuse.

The puppy, just a few weeks old, was brought to Mdzananda by his owner after the man attempted a home neutering using a sharp blade. Survivor was rushed into emergency surgery and medical care by the clinic’s dedicated veterinary team. Despite their best efforts, the puppy succumbed to shock just days later.

“This is one of the most heartbreaking cases we’ve seen,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda. “No animal should endure such cruelty. We will be taking this case to prosecution and will not stop fighting for justice.”

Unfortunately, Survivor’s case is not isolated. Just last month, another puppy, Scooby, arrived at Mdzananda following severe abuse. In the same period, four other dogs were rescued after being found with deep wounds caused by chains embedded in their necks.

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The clinic is now appealing to the public for emergency donations to support life-saving surgeries for abused animals, investigative efforts to bring abusers to justice, community education to reduce unintentional neglect and shelter, food, and care for animals as they heal and await new homes.

“Your support gives abused animals a second chance – and a voice when they have none,” says du Plessis. “We are deeply grateful for every contribution.”

Donations can be made to Mdzananda Animal Clinic’s new bank account: Nedbank, Current Account: 1314465147, Branch Code: 198765, Reference: Scooby + Your Name. For further information contact info@mdzananda.co.za.

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter has been serving the community of Khayelitsha for 29 years being the only animal clinic and shelter in the vast township. Services include consultations, hospitilisation, surgery, mobile clinics, an animal ambulance, continuous sterilisations, homeless pet shelter and education. Around 1500 animals are seen per month.

Source: Mdzananda Animal Clinic 

A Night of Compassion & Celebration: Animal Shelter Gala Dinner

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A Night of Compassion & Celebration: Animal Shelter Gala Dinner

Animal lovers and philanthropists are invited to an evening of elegance and generosity at the second annual Mdzananda Animal Clinic Gala Dinner & Auction. Taking place on Friday, May 10th, at 18:30 at the iconic Two Oceans Aquarium, this event promises to be a spectacular night in support of the animals of Khayelitsha.

This special evening will feature:

  • A delicious two-course dinner prepared by top chefs along with a sweet treat for desert
  • Complimentary table wine to toast to a great cause
  • An exciting auction featuring exclusive items and experiences
  • The opportunity to connect with fellow animal lovers, all while making a real impact on the lives of animals in need

Tickets are available now! Secure your spot and support Mdzananda Animal Clinic’s vital work by booking on Quicket https://qkt.io/1PepxN or by emailing fund@mdzananda.co.za

Tables seat 10 guests, and individual bookings are welcome – guests who do not book a full table will be seated with fellow supporters who share their passion for animal welfare.

All proceeds from the evening will go towards providing essential veterinary care, shelter, and community education to improve the lives of Khayelitsha’s pets and their owners.

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Kelly, Fundraiser at Mdzananda Animal Clinic, says: “Last year, we had a sold-out first Gala Dinner to raise funds for all the animals of Khayelitsha. This year we have added extra seats and hope to sell out again. The more support we receive, the more donations we can raise to help the animals in need.”

If businesses wish to support the event by booking a table, they can reach out to Kelly at fund@mdzananda.co.za.

Join us for a night of fine dining, entertainment, and philanthropy, and help us make a difference for the animals of Khayelitsha.

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic has been serving the community of Khayelitsha for 28 years being the only animal clinic and shelter in the vast township. Services include consultations, hospitilisation, surgery, mobile clinics, an animal ambulance, continuous sterilisations, homeless pet shelter and education. Around 1500 animals are seen per month. For more information visit www.mdzananda.co.za

Source: Mdzananda Animal Clinic 

Over 350 paws to walk the Sea Point promenade

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Over 350 paws to walk the Sea Point promenade

Humans and four-legged friends are invited to strut their stuff at the seventh Paws on the Promenade – a dog walk fundraiser by the Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Khayelitsha, in partnership with Vondi’s Holistic Pet Nutrition.

The dog walk will take place on Sunday the 13th of April at 8:30am. Starting at the Mouille Point lighthouse, the five-kilometer route will extend to the Sea Point swimming pool and back. Shorter turnaround points for old, tired and injured pets (or humans) will also be available.

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Photography credit – Jackie Wernberg

“Our 2024 Paws on the Promenade was a great success with an attendance of 325 dogs, 1 cat and 614 humans. On a budget of just R4475 we raised R45 786. We hope to raise even more funds with this year’s event. This, however, all depends on how many wonderful dogs and humans join us for the walk,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive and event organizer.

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic is an NPO animal clinic in Khayelitsha township serving up to 1500 animals per month through consultations, hospitalisation, general and orthopaedic surgeries, continuous sterilisations, mobile clinics, an animal ambulance and homeless pet shelter. They also set a priority on community empowerment and education to ensure people become responsible pet ownership into the future.

“Our budget keeps growing year on year due to the demand for our services. It is essential for us to diversify our fundraising. Paws on the Promenade is a great fundraiser but also a magnificent fun filled event for the whole family,” says du Plessis.

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Photography credit – Natali Varney-Schutte

Expect to see dogs of all shapes and sizes. “People get very creative, dressing themselves and their dogs up in costumes,” says du Plessis. There will be Dalmatians in tutus, Dachshunds in hot dog outfits and Pomeranians with bow ties.

“For the past seven years Vondi’s has partnered with Mdzananda in making this event possible. It is one of our highlights of the year,” says Cindy Jacobson, manager of Vondi’s Holistic Pet Nutrition. “The route is one of the most scenic routes in Cape Town making it a wonderful walk for dogs and owners alike. We support Mdzananda because of their excellent professionalism and the impact they make in the Khayelitsha community, educating pet owners and treating sick pets that would otherwise have little to no help.”

Everyone is invited – humans without four legged friends are welcome too. You can also walk one of the homeless dogs. Book a dog by emailing marcelle@mdzananda.co.za. Limited dogs are available.

Tickets cost R50 per person, R50 per dog and R25 for kids under 12. These are available from Quicket www.qkt.io/pawsonprom2025 or on the day from 08:00. 

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Photography credit – Rima Geffen

Raffle prizes, products sales, delicious coffee, food and crafts will entertain you on the day. The first 150 dogs to arrive will also receive a free goodie bag.

All pet owners are encouraged to dress up in a dog outfit or to wear something orange, the Mdzananda Animal Clinic brand.

For more information visit www.mdzananda.co.za or contact marcelle@mdzananda.co.za. 

Source: Mdzananda Animal Clinic

#BeMyValentine – Homeless pets offering love

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Photos: Holly | Jack | Laffle

#BeMyValentine – Homeless pets offering love

It’s the month of love and the Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha is encouraging members of the public to show some love to homeless pets in need. Their #BeMyValentine campaign features dogs up for adoption looking for sponsorship to make their Valentine’s Day a happy one. 

“Valentine’s Day has become an extremely commercialised event with people spending large amounts of money on gifts, chocolates and flowers. This year we are encouraging people to allow a homeless pet to be their Valentine by sponsoring them and showing them some love,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive.

If you’re feeling out of love this Valentine’s month, head over to Mdzananda’s Facebook page or Instagram feed to meet their tail wagging bachelors and sassy bachelorettes which you can sponsor.

There are a variety of sponsoring options including:

  • R50 – Get rid of those nasty fleas and ticks – we want cuddles instead
  • R100 – Have your Valentine vaccinated to keep them healthy and strong
  • R200 – Spoil your Love with delicious food for two weeks
  • R450 – Give your valentine great meals for a whole month
  • R650 – Spay or neuter your Valentine – love is enough, no babies needed

Donations made to your chosen Valentine dog will help the organisation to care for them until they are able to find permanent homes.

“The dogs up for adoption have been at our clinic’s shelter facility for weeks or months. Some have gone through a lot in their lives and need extra love,” says du Plessis.

If you would like to sponsor a pet for Valentine’s Day contact donations@mdzananda.co.za or make a donation to Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Standard Bank, Account number: 075595710, Branch: Rondebosch, Branch Code: 025009, Reference: Pet’sName +YourName. All pets are also up for adoption.

If you have a human Valentine of your own, you can also sponsor a pet in their name, and we will send them a special e-card letting them know. Send your name, valentine’s name and email address, the pet you have sponsored and donation proof to donations@mdzananda.co.za.

Source: Mdzananda Animal Clinic

Give a homeless pet some Christmas love with #MyFirstChristmas

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Give a homeless pet some Christmas love with #MyFirstChristmas

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha has launched #MyFirstChristmas to encourage members of the public to give a homeless pet some Christmas love. The NPO animal clinic and shelter has seen an enormous increase in pets being handed over or abandoned at their clinic leading up to the festive season. These pets will be alone for Christmas and the organisation’s staff aim to make it a bit more joyous for each of them.

The campaign aims at introducing homeless pets up for adoption to members of the public and to encourage people to sponsor them to show them some extra love on over the festive season.

“Most shelter pets have never experienced Christmas,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive. “Christmas is usually a joyous day but my heart always breaks for the pets at our shelter facility who are spending it without a family. This year we hope to make it a bit more special for them. Members of the public can sponsor a shelter pet to have a Christmas day experience. Our staff and volunteers will, in turn, make their day special”, says du Plessis.

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There are a variety of sponsoring options including:

  • R100 – A good cuddle
  • R200 – A good cuddle and a treat
  • R300 – A good cuddle, treat and play time
  • R500 – All the above and because you can and think our staff are awesome

Or you can keep them healthy this Christmas:

  • R50 – get rid of nasty fleas and ticks
  • R80 – a vaccination to stay healthy
  • R100 – yummy food for one week
  • R500 – sponsor me for a month

You can choose your special pet by visiting the Mdzananda Animal Clinic Facebook or Instagram pages @MdzanandaAnimalClinic.

“The dogs and cats up for adoption have been at our clinic’s shelter facility for weeks or even months. Alfie, a medium cross breed puppy, is patiently waiting for a family who will give him a comfortable home. And Buttercup has stolen all the staff’s hearts and is just one of the many waiting for a home,” says du Plessis.  

If you would like to sponsor a pet to have a Charismas experience, make a donation to Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Standard Bank, Account number: 075595710, Branch: Rondebosch, Branch Code: 025009, Reference: Your chosen pet’s name +Your Name or visit https://www.mdzananda.co.za/donate-ctzx

About Mdzananda Animal Clinic (www.mdzananda.co.za)
The Mdzananda Animal Clinic is a permanent, veterinary council registered, NPO animal clinic in Khayelitsha. The clinic serves an average of 1500 animals per month through consultations, hospitalisation, general and orthopaedic surgeries, sterilisations, mobile clinics and, animal ambulance, inspectorate unit and pet shelter. Mdzananda has a strong focus on community empowerment and education to ensure responsible pet ownership into the future.

Source: Mdzananda Animal Clinic