The Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha has expressed immense gratitude to the public and Four Paws for the support received after the Cape Town storms.
The clinic was affected by having fences broken, roofs damaged and two external heaters, that keep hospital patients warm, destroyed. The NPO animal clinic appealed for financial help last week after incurring damage costs of approximately R40 000.
“We are absolutely blown away by the support we have received,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive. “Not only did we receive financial donations but we received numerous emails and calls offering support too.”
The clinic received donations beyond the repairs requirement. “The donations have helped us with repairs and all extra funding will go to caring for the sick and injured pets and homeless dogs and cats of Khayelitsha,” says du Plessis.
Mdzananda treats around 1500 animals, primarily dogs and cats, per month. It is the only animal clinic and shelter serving Khayelitsha and close surrounding communities.
“The reality is that, without our services, many injured and ill pets would live lives in pain or even die,” says Sr Heidi May, General Manager. “Most pet guardians in the community cannot afford private veterinary care and we provide this essential service while also focusing strongly on education to equip pet guardians to be the best pet carers they can be. There are also many loving pet owners who bring their pets for proactive care such as vaccinations and sterilisation. These cases are growing by the day and are a joy to treat.”
The clinic’s small maintenance team have been hard at work and have fixed fences and contractors have been brought in to fix the roofs. The external heaters have been replaced.
“We are grateful that none of the patients and shelter animals were injured or affected by the storm and are immensely grateful to the public for the support. We can now create a safe, comfortable and secure facility again,” says du Plessis.
