After 30 years of healing injured, ill and vulnerable animals in a makeshift space, the walls of permanent, safe and dignified consultation rooms have finally gone up for Mdzananda Animal Clinic.
Khayelitsha, South Africa (12 January 2026) – In the heart of Khayelitsha, healing has happened for three decades in a pieced-together space, fuelled by little more than hope and a deep love for the community’s animals.
After 30 years of working from ad hoc rooms, the Mdzananda Animal Clinic proudly opened its doors to its new consultation rooms last week.
“Thanks to the generous support of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, we now have a purpose-built reception area and four high-quality consulting rooms – the very first stop for every animal who walks through our doors,” the organisation shared.
A video shared on Facebook shows the bare space made of wooden and cardboard walls being taken down piece by piece – not only because it was broken, but because the community deserved better.
Now the bricks have finally caught up to the heartbeat of the Mdzananda mission. No longer will a sick pup be examined in a drafty corner or a nervous kitten comforted on a bare bench.
This was never just a building, it was a beacon of hope and healing.
“This is where animals receive vaccinations, deworming and medical care, are booked for sterilisations or operations, and begin their journey to healing – whether that’s referral to our hospital or theatre, or home-based care with medication.”
Beyond veterinarian care, the space also serves a place of learning.
“Every guardian receives guidance tailored to their animal’s needs, and soon isiXhosa educational videos will help make animal care information even more accessible to our community,” Mdzananda says.
With solid walls, a fresh coat of paint, reinforced floors and new equipment, the doors have now been opened to a new building and a new chapter. A new home built for the healing, dignity and overall well-being of the animals of Khayelitsha.
“Thank you to our incredible funders, our pro bono architect Jackie James, and every partner who helped make this possible.”
Here’s to a new home for second chances!
Sources: Mdzananda Animal Clinic
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