Led by Veterinary Welfare Assistant, Buyisiwe Gubese, Mdzananda staff dressed in Christmas outfits and distributed 332 gift parcels filled with pet food and treats to pets and pet owners across the township, says the clinic.

"This initiative is dedicated to celebrating the unconditional love and loyalty of our pets, recognising them as cherished members of our families," says Gubese. "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."

Over the festive season, Mdzananda's shelter has seen a significant increase in pets being abandoned. This is largely due to community members travelling to the Eastern Cape and, without suitable care arrangements for their animals, placing their pets up for adoption, adds the clinic.

"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," says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter.

Those who would like to support the organisation and help ease the current financial strain can make a donation via Mdzananda Animal Clinic's website, or donate directly to Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Nedbank, Current Account, Branch Code: 198765, Account Number: 1314465147.

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter will celebrate 30 years of service to the pets of Khayelitsha in 2026. The organisation assists approximately 1 500 pets every month through veterinary operations, sterilisation programmes, hospitalisation, an animal ambulance, mobile clinics and adoptions. Mdzananda also places a strong emphasis on pet owner education, concludes the clinic.

For more information, visit www.mzananda.co.za. You can also follow the Mdzananda Animal Clinic on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, or on TikTok. 

*Image courtesy of contributor