Categories: News

Mdzananda Animal Clinic: A Beacon of Hope Amidst Taxi Violence in Khayelitsha

Providing Care Amidst Chaos

The recent taxi violence in Khayelitsha has had a devastating impact on the community, but the Mdzananda Animal Clinic has remained a beacon of hope for the area’s animals. Despite safety threats, the clinic’s staff has remained committed to providing care for their patients and shelter for homeless pets.

Adapting to Ensure Safety

General Manager Sr Heidi May describes the harrowing experiences the clinic has faced throughout the unrest. The staff has had to adapt the way they operate significantly to ensure the safety of themselves and their patients. This has included securing safe transport for staff and reducing consulting hours to accommodate the safe return of staff before rush hour protests.

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Limited Services

Due to the dangerous circumstances, Mdzananda’s animal ambulance service is limited to emergency cases only, and the clinic’s satellite facility and mobile services have been temporarily suspended. The clinic’s main facility is only performing emergency surgeries.

Unwavering Dedication

Despite the challenges, the staff at the Mdzananda Animal Clinic remains committed to the welfare of the community’s animals. Fundraising and Communications Executive Marcelle du Plessis expresses her pride in the team’s dedication to caring for patients, catering to homeless pets, and providing emergency care in the face of violence.

A Symbol of Hope

In a time of turmoil and uncertainty, the Mdzananda Animal Clinic’s unwavering dedication serves as a symbol of hope and resilience for the community’s animals.

Kagiso Petersen

Kagiso Petersen is a Cape Town journalist who reports on the city’s evolving food culture—tracking everything from township braai innovators to Sea Point bistros signed up to the Ocean Wise pledge. Raised in Bo-Kaap and now cycling daily along the Atlantic Seaboard, he brings a palpable love for the city’s layered flavours and even more layered stories to every assignment.

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