Cell C Foundation keeps the animals warm this winter

It came to the rescue after a desperate appeal through the media to animal lovers and the general public to assist with donations following a number of their animals dying because of the cold.

Over the months the clinic, which operates from six recycled shipping containers in the heart of Khayelitsha, has been faced with a terrible plight as the cold weather bites deeper.

It was reported that two puppies died earlier this week and a few more did not make it through surgery because of hypothermia. There were also challenges of electricity costs which the organisation is unable to afford and has since resorted to alternative ways of keeping the animals warm.

Sister Ros Stone, veterinary nurse at Mdzananda Animal Clinic, emphasised the importance of the clinic to be heated as there was always a risk of animals going into post- anaesthetic shock and then dying.

"The sad reality and a heartbreaking part of it is to experience a dog shiver uncontrollably with its teeth chattering because of the freezing weather," says Mdzananda Director, Felipe Perdomo.

This project has a vibrant and busy volunteer programme which regularly hosts visiting veterinarians, veterinary nurses and Vet technicians.

Cell C employees in the Western Cape Region have volunteered to build dog kennels at the clinic on Mandela Day on July 18. Some of these kennels will also be sold to the community so that they too can protect and keep their animals warm this winter.

Suzette van der Merwe, Managing Executive of Cell C Foundation, said: "We are delighted to be able to contribute to the welfare of these animals because the Mdzananda Animal Clinic plays a vital role in the life of the community."