Abandoned dogs flood animal clinic

ABANDONED dogs have been streaming in through the doors of the Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha because of an increase in pet handovers since the implementation of lockdown level 3.

Clinic spokesperson Marcelle du Plessis said last week that a dog had been found behind braai stands.

“During the lockdown, we barely had any pet handovers. We found this quite strange. Due to the economic state and people losing their jobs, we were expecting increased handovers during this time.

“We believed the decrease in handovers was due to people being at home more and having time to bond with their pets.

“During the lockdown, we barely had any pet handovers. Marcelle du Plessis Clinic spokesperson

“However, as soon as lockdown level 3 came into effect, the pets started pouring in.

“We are not sure what changed. We can only think that the economic impact has now taken a greater toll, forcing people to hand over their animals as they can no longer look after them,” Du Plessis said.

In the same week the dog was found, the clinic received a second one with nine puppies; a third with 10 puppies; two puppies in a box; and two older dogs, to name a few.

“By Thursday last week, its small shelter facility was at capacity.

To add to the struggle, the past weekend’s severe weather flooded its shelter unit.

“When it rains, it pours in Khayelitsha. Our shelter and office were flooded. Our homeless dogs were all moved into our hospital facility until the water dries up. This, however, puts strain on our hospital space as we are full to the brim with patients,” said Du Plessis.

To help, email info@mdzananda. co.za or visit www.mdzananda.co.za