"Many people want to help but don't always know how," says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda. "With this campaign, you can directly support a pet in need by packing a box of essentials to help them through the cold season."

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic says it sees a surge in patients every winter. From hypothermia cases to injuries caused by reckless driving in wet weather, the challenges increase as the temperatures drop.

"Most township pets live outdoors. While many have kennels, there are still too many without adequate shelter. Keeping them warm is crucial to their health and survival," adds du Plessis.

Despite the challenges, there is a silver lining. "We've seen a growing number of Khayelitsha residents actively caring for their pets — buying kennels, leads, collars and better food," says du Plessis. "Our clinic and shelter is bursting at the seams, which shows how much more people are prioritising their animals' well-being. It's a testament to the impact of our ongoing education efforts."

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic says that to take part in the Wagging Winter Shoebox Drive, pack a box full of essentials and drop it off at one of the allocated drop spots listed here.

The animal clinic says goods to pack in the box include:

  • Hills A / D tinned food (for recovering pets)
  • Milko Pup or Kitty Milk (for bottle-fed babies)
  • food
  • blankets
  • hot water bottles
  • cat litter
  • automatic washing powder (for blanket washing)
  • black bags (for cage cleaning)
  • leads
  • collars, and
  • dog jackets.

"The pets and rescues of Khayelitsha thank everyone in advance for supporting this campaign to keep the animals warm this winter," concludes du Plessis. 

For more information, contact www.mdzananda.co.za. You can also follow Mdzananda Animal Clinic on Facebook, Instagram, or on TikTok.

*Image courtesy of contributor