The Mandela Day goodness is already in full swing. FOUR PAWS, in collaboration with Mdzananda Animal Clinic, has successfully delivered warmth, protection, and dignity to 67 pets in Khayelitsha!
Cape Town, South Africa (18 July 2025) – For many families in Khayelitsha, pets are treasured companions, but access to basic resources like kennels and vet care is often out of reach.
This year’s Mandela Day “67 Kennels of Hope” campaign by FOUR PAWS, in collaboration with Mdzananda Animal Clinic, sought to bridge this gap by calling on South Africans to go beyond symbolic acts and contribute meaningfully to the lives of animals in need.
Through the generosity of individual donors and corporate partners, FOUR PAWS and Mdzananda were able to hand over:
- 67 dog kennels to protect pets from harsh winter conditions
- Nutritious food parcels to support pet health and vitality
- Durable collars to keep pets safe and identifiable
- Tick and flea treatments to ensure ongoing wellness
Each of the 67 beneficiary pets was selected from homes vetted by Mdzananda Animal Clinic, ensuring that the animals are in the care of responsible pet guardians. The majority of these pets have also already been spayed or neutered, and all are vaccinated, thanks to Mdzananda’s ongoing community support.
For many recipients, the gesture was more than just a gift; it was a sign of hope and care.
“My dog, Rocky, is like my child to me. He is now going to be safe and warm. Thank you to FOUR PAWS and Mdzananda for thinking about the animals. It shows that even though we may not have much, our pets are not forgotten,” said Patricia Bodigelo, a Khayelitsha resident and grateful recipient of the initiative.
Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Marcelle Du Plessis, touched on the deep love that people have for their animals in Khayelitsha, but how, in reality, it just wasn’t enough to keep a dog warm at night.
“This campaign is about recognising that pet guardians in under-resourced areas are doing their best. These 67 kennels will provide dignity and comfort, helping both animals and their owners live better, healthier lives. We’re incredibly grateful to FOUR PAWS for standing with our community and being part of this life-changing initiative,” Du Plessis said.
Director at FOUR PAWS South Africa, Fiona Miles, added that Mandela Day was a reminder that small acts of kindness can create powerful change, and that 67 Kennels of Hope is proof of that.
“It’s not just about giving; it’s about honouring the deep connection between people and animals and recognising the right of every pet to live with dignity.”
Mzansi, you’ve done a good thing here. The success of the 67 Kennels of Hope campaign demonstrates that meaningful change is possible when we act with empathy and purpose.
As South Africans commemorate Mandela Day on 18 July, FOUR PAWS encourages individuals, schools, corporations, and community groups to turn their 67 minutes into acts of kindness that leave a lasting legacy.
Sources: Supplied
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