Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter Helps Alleviate Animal Overpopulation
In just six weeks since kicking off its mid-June mass spay and neuter initiative, the Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter has already sterilized 497 dogs, putting them halfway to their 1,000-operation goal. These procedures come on top of the clinic's regular daily surgeries at its main facility, underscoring its dedication to curbing pet overpopulation in and around Khayelitsha.
Khayelitsha is home to an estimated 300,000 dogs and cats, a figure rising alongside the human population. Without large-scale intervention, unrestrained breeding leads to a surge in unwanted pets, straining local families, neighborhoods, rescue groups, and scarce resources.
“Sterilization is a primary, humane tool for preventing animal hardship. It stops unwanted litters, lowers rates of neglect and abuse, and fosters healthier, safer communities,” explains Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive. “Fixed pets roam less, fight less, and suffer fewer diseases, which ultimately eases the burden on owners.”
Marking 30 years of operation, Mdzananda remains the sole non-profit veterinary clinic in Khayelitsha. It acts as an essential safety net, delivering low-cost care to thousands of pets whose owners would otherwise lack access to veterinary medical attention.
"Widespread poverty makes private vets unaffordable for most local residents," says du Plessis. "People here care deeply about their pets, but they depend on us to keep them healthy and prevent unplanned litters."
With almost 500 surgeries completed, the shelter is appealing to the public to fund the remaining half of the campaign. A donation of R200 covers the cost of one procedure, preventing future generations of unwanted litters before the cycle starts.
"Fixing a single pet creates a massive ripple effect," du Plessis adds. "It prevents countless puppies and kittens from being born into hard lives. Trading the cost of one meal out to sponsor a surgery makes a permanent difference."
By hitting its 1,000-sterilization milestone, Mdzananda aims to build a sustainable, positive future for animals and residents across Khayelitsha.
To sponsor a sterilisation or support the campaign, make a donation to Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Nedbank, Current account, Branch code: 198765, Account number: 1314465147, Reference: Steri + Your Name or contact Mdzananda Animal Clinic on info@mdzananda.co.za.