Mdzananda Animal Clinic: 29 years of compassionate care for Khayelitsha

This October, the Mdzananda Animal Clinic and shelter marks its 29th anniversary, nearly three decades of providing care for pets and people in Khayelitsha.

The organisation began in 1996 as a grassroots dog-washing effort on open ground and has since grown into a veterinary clinic, hospital, and shelter serving more than 1 500 animals each month.

To mark the anniversary, Mdzananda hosted a community dog show, where 42 dogs were judged in various categories. The event brought together local pet owners and highlighted the bond between residents and their animals.

The clinic also held an educational workshop for 60 children, focusing on the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare. The session aimed to teach compassion, respect, and responsible pet ownership.

“We are incredibly proud of how far we’ve come,” said Marcelle du Plessis, fund-raising and communications executive at Mdzananda.

“This anniversary is more than a celebration of our growth - it’s a reflection of the deep community support, the dedication of our team, and the remarkable animals we care for every day.”

The clinic provides medical consultations, treatment, sterilisation and surgery, hospitalisation, mobile clinics, adoption services, and community education.

The clinic thanked its donors, partners, and supporters for their ongoing support.

“Your support allows us to remain a vital lifeline for animals in need,” said du Plessis. “Together, we’re making a lasting difference.”

For more information, visit www.mdzananda.co.za