As icy winds and heavy rains sweep through Cape Town this winter, vulnerable pets in the Khayelitsha township are feeling the harsh reality of the cold season, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and shelter is reaching out to the public with an urgent appeal to participate in its annual Wagging Winter Shoebox drive, a touching initiative aimed at providing much-needed warmth and care for the township’s furry residents.
‘Many people want to help but don’t always know how, with this campaign, you can directly support a pet in need by packing a box of essentials to help them through the cold season,’ states Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda.
Each year, as temperatures drop, the clinic sees a surge in patients, with cases ranging from hypothermia to injuries sustained due to reckless driving in wet weather.
Most pets in the township spend their days outdoors, and while many boast a kennel, numerous animals are still left without adequate shelter, making it urgent to keep them warm to ensure their health and survival.
‘Our observance of the community’s changing attitudes is encouraging, we’ve seen a growing number of Khayelitsha residents taking active steps to care for their pets investing in kennels, leads, collars, and providing higher quality food,’ Du Plessis notes.
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The clinic is at capacity, indicating a significant shift in how pet ownership is prioritised within the community. ‘This is a testament to the impact of our ongoing education efforts,’ she adds.
Participating in the Wagging Winter Shoebox drive is straightforward and impactful. Community members can help by packing a box filled with crucial items, which can be dropped off at designated locations.
Suggested items include Hills A/D tinned food for recovering animals, Milko Pup or Kitty Milk for bottle-fed babies, warm blankets, hot water bottles, cat litter, and various cleaning supplies.
To find out more about how to contribute, individuals can visit the Mdzananda website.
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