The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter in Khayelitsha is launching a large-scale sterilisation initiative aimed at reducing the number of unwanted puppies and kittens in the community.

1,000 additional animals to be sterilised in Khayelitsha and surrounding areas

Marcelle du Plessis, a fundraising and communications executive at Mdzananda, said through this campaign, an additional 1 000 dogs and cats will be sterilised, adding to the approximately 3 000 procedures the organisation performs annually in Khayelitsha and surrounding areas.

She said pet sterilisation is one of the most effective ways to manage animal overpopulation, prevent the spread of disease and reduce the suffering of animals born into environments where adequate care cannot be provided. In addition to helping control pet populations, sterilisation offers significant health benefits, including lowering the risk of certain cancers and infections.

Community education and registration for the pet sterilisation programme already underway

“We are thrilled to roll out this campaign and make a meaningful difference in the lives of dogs, cats and the families who care for them. Over the past few months, we have been registering pets for the programme while educating community members about the importance and benefits of sterilisation,” said Du Plessis.

“A generous grant from a donor foundation will cover all veterinary fees associated with the procedures. However, Mdzananda still needs to raise R200 000 to cover the medication, surgical supplies and other consumables required. The organisation is therefore calling on 1 000 supporters to contribute R200 each and sponsor one sterilisation.”

“Today, R200 is often what people spend on a single meal at a restaurant,” says Du Plessis.

How you can support pet sterilisation in Khayelitsha — skip one meal, change a life

She said they invite animal lovers to consider giving up one meal out and instead investing in a sterilisation that will have a lasting impact on the well-being of animals in the community.

“Together, we can help create a healthier and more sustainable future for pets in Khayelitsha.”

For 30 years, the Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter has provided vital veterinary and animal welfare services to the Khayelitsha community. The organisation cares for up to 1 500 animals every month through its veterinary hospital, surgical theatre, homeless pet shelter, mobile clinics and animal ambulance service. Through ongoing outreach and educational programmes, Mdzananda also promotes responsible pet ownership and animal welfare throughout the community.

Donations can be made to Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Nedbank, Current Account, Branch Code: 198765, Account Number: 1314465147, Reference: Steri + Your Name. Alternatively, visit www.mdzananda.co.za to donate via SnapScan or other available donation platforms.