An NPO says fires in Khayelitsha leave animals in crisis. A spokesperson for the Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Marcelle du Plessis says on Wednesday 29 January, over 200 homes were destroyed by devastating fires in Khayelitsha, Site C.
She says, “What we have encountered is heartbreaking – families desperate to find their beloved pets, animals suffering from injuries, and a community in shock.”
This left many families with nothing but the clothes on their backs. She says amidst the destruction, countless animals have gone missing, are injured, or remain too terrified to return home.
Fires in Khayelitsha leave animals in crisis
Du Plessis, the Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda says the Clinic has been on the ground since the fires broke out, tirelessly searching for animals in distress. The Mdzananda Animal Clinic now calls for urgent public support to fund emergency rescue efforts.
“This is a crisis, and we need all the help we can get,” says du Plessis.
Du Plessis says donations will go towards medical treatment for injured animals, fuel and transport costs for rescue vehicles searching the disaster zone and staff and resources needed for ongoing emergency response.
READ MORE: Members of the public can contribute by making an emergency donation at Mdzananda Animal Clinic
Donations in kind are encouraged
The public is also encouraged to assist with donations in-kind such as building materials, clothing, food and anything that people can use to rebuild their lives. These can be dropped off at Mdzananda Animal Clinic. The address is 21297 Govan Mbeki Road, Mandela Park, Khayelitsha.
“Every minute counts. Every donation saves a life.”
Du Plessis says the Mdzananda Animal Clinic is a permanent, veterinary council registered, NPO animal clinic and shelter in Khayelitsha.
READ MORE: About Mdzananda Animal Clinic
The clinic serves an average of 1500 animals per month through consultations, hospitalisation and general and orthopaedic surgeries. They also do sterilisations and mobile clinics. There’s also an animal ambulance, an inspectorate unit and a pet shelter. Mdzananda has a strong focus on community empowerment and education to ensure responsible pet ownership in the future.
For updates on Mdzananda’s rescue efforts, follow their social media channels.