The spirit of Christmas filled the air in Khayelitsha as the Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter embarked on a heartwarming initiative to bring joy to pets and their owners on Wednesday, reports Cape {town} Etc.
Dressed in festive outfits, a dedicated team led by Veterinary Welfare Assistant, Buyisiwe Gubese, distributed 332 gift parcels brimming with pet food and treats throughout the township.
‘This initiative is dedicated to celebrating the unconditional love and loyalty of our pets, recognising them as cherished members of our families,’ Gubese stated.
‘Beyond individual homes, this project aims to foster a sense of community, spreading joy, love and appreciation for our furry friends during the festive season. In a year like 2025, which brought many challenges, our pets remained loyal, loving and present every single day,’
As the festive season rolls around, Mdzananda has observed a troubling increase in pet abandonment.
Many community members are travelling to the Eastern Cape for the holidays, leaving their furry companions behind without appropriate care arrangements. As a result, the shelter is experiencing a strain on its resources.
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Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter, shared, ‘Even though our shelter and clinic are full to the brim this festive season, placing us under immense financial pressure, we still try our best to brighten the lives of pets and pet owners in the community by handing out food parcels,’
The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter, celebrating its upcoming 30th anniversary in 2026, serves around 1,500 pets each month.
Their work encompasses vital veterinary operations, sterilisation programmes, hospitalisation, an animal ambulance, mobile clinics, and adoptions, all while placing a strong emphasis on educating pet owners.
Those inspired by Mdzananda’s mission and wishing to ease the financial strain faced by the clinic can make a donation via their website at www.mdzananda.co.za
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Picture: Supplied
