Share the joy of Christmas: Mdzananda Animal Clinic's #MyFirstChristmas campaign

The festive season is often a time of joy, warmth, and family gatherings, but for many animals in shelters, it can be a sobering reminder of what they lack. The Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha is striving to change that narrative with its innovative #MyFirstChristmas campaign, calling on the public to share their Christmas kindness with homeless dogs and cats this holiday season.

As the year draws to a close, Mdzananda Animal Clinic, a registered NPO, has noted a worrying increase in the number of animals being surrendered or abandoned. Those who find themselves without a home face the prospect of spending Christmas alone. The team at Mdzananda is determined to ensure that this year is different, aiming to provide warmth, joy, and the spirit of Christmas to those pets still waiting for their forever homes.

“Many of the animals in our care have never had a real Christmas," said Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda. "While Christmas is typically a happy, family-filled day, it’s always bittersweet knowing our shelter pets are spending it without one. This year, we want to make the day a little brighter for them. By sponsoring a shelter pet, members of the public can help give them a Christmas experience, and our team and volunteers will make sure each animal feels special,” she explained.

The #MyFirstChristmas campaign offers a variety of sponsorship options, allowing people to contribute in a way that suits their budget:

• R25 - A good cuddle and a treat
• R50 - Get rid of nasty fleas and ticks
• R85 - A vaccination to keep them healthy
• R165 - Yummy food for one week
• R500 - Sponsor me for a month
• R650 - Sterilise your darling
• R1000 - All the above (the ultimate gift)

Those interested in making a difference can select their special pet by visiting www.mdzananda.co.za or following Mdzananda Animal Clinic on social media (@MdzanandaAnimalClinic on Facebook and Instagram). “The dogs and cats up for adoption have been at our clinic’s shelter facility for weeks or even months,” said Du Plessis.

Donations can be made directly to Mdzananda Animal Clinic through the following banking details: Nedbank, Current account, Branch code: 198765, Account number: 1314465147, with the reference including your chosen animal’s name and your name.

Mdzananda Animal Clinic is more than just a shelter; it serves an average of 1,500 animals monthly, providing vital services including consultations, hospitalisation, surgeries, mobile clinics, and an animal ambulance. Their pivotal role in community empowerment and education ensures that responsible pet ownership becomes a norm for future generations.