This Saturday, over 100 Khayelitsha shelter dogs that have long been on the waiting list for a forever home will receive the gift of warmth, protection and comfort thanks to kennels generously donated by compassionate animal lovers who want to ensure they are cosy while they wait for their perfect match.
Khayelitsha, South Africa (16 July 2026) – The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter in Khayelitsha is inviting the public to be part of making a meaningful difference in the lives of animals while experiencing the organisation’s work firsthand.
As part of the Mandela Day celebrations, Mdzananda has partnered with FOUR PAWS South Africa to distribute 67 kennels and more than 670 care packs to community dogs that have spent months waiting for shelter during the cold winter months.
“Many of these dogs have been on our waiting list for months to receive a donated kennel. This Mandela Day, they will finally receive the gift of warmth, protection and comfort,” says Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter.
Director at FOUR PAWS South Africa, Fiona Miles, says the campaign is a reminder of what we can achieve when compassion turns into action
“Together with our supporters and partners, we have not only reached our goal but gone beyond it, delivering meaningful, lasting change for dogs who need it most. This is the spirit of Mandela Day brought to life.”
The impact doesn’t stop there. An additional 67 kennels have been sponsored by the Signature of Hope Foundation, bringing the total number of kennels distributed this Mandela Day to an incredible 134 kennels.
“We are proud that, through Signature of Hope, we can help provide safe shelter for animals in the care of this remarkable organisation,” said Craig Featherby, Signature of Hope Trustee.
Beyond the kennel distribution, the organisation is also inviting individuals, families and corporate groups to spend their 67 minutes visiting the clinic and shelter during its Mandela Day Open Days.
Guided tours will take place on Friday, 17 July, and Saturday, 18 July, offering visitors an opportunity to see the organisation’s life-changing work in action and learn more about animal welfare in Khayelitsha.
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“We know some people feel hesitant about visiting Khayelitsha, but we would love to welcome them to experience our work firsthand this Mandela Day. It is an opportunity to see the difference that compassion can make every single day,” says du Plessis.
For 30 years, the Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter has been the only veterinary clinic and animal shelter serving Khayelitsha and surrounding communities. Beyond providing veterinary care and shelter, the organisation focuses on education, responsible pet ownership and building a compassionate community where people and animals can thrive together.
For more information, email [email protected]. To book a Mandela Day tour, email [email protected].
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