Join FOUR PAWS in changing the lives of 67 pets this Mandela Day
FOUR PAWS and Mdzananda Animal Clinic are teaming up this Mandela Day to provide 67 kennels, food, and care to pets in Khayelitsha — offering warmth, dignity, and hope to animals and the families who love them.
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Animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS in Westlake is inviting South Africans to do more than just give 67 minutes of their time this Mandela Day — they’re asking people to help change the lives of 67 pets in need.
In partnership with Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha, their 2025 Mandela Day campaign, 67 Kennels of Hope, aims to provide shelter, food, and basic healthcare to pets from underprivileged homes.
According to FOUR PAWS South Africa director Fiona Miles, this year’s initiative is about lasting change.
“In the spirit of Madiba, this campaign is about more than giving — it’s about restoring dignity and providing care to animals who mean the world to the families they belong to,” she said.
“By supporting 67 animals this Mandela Day, we honour the unbreakable bond between people and their pets — especially in communities where resources are limited but love is abundant.”
Each of the 67 pets selected will receive a weatherproof kennel, nutritious food, a collar, and tick and flea treatments.
The homes have all been vetted by Mdzananda to ensure that the pets are already cared for, with most sterilised and vaccinated.
Marcelle Du Plessis, fundraising and communications executive at Mdzananda Animal Clinic, said the need is especially urgent in winter.
“Working in the heart of the Khayelitsha community, we know the needs of animals, especially during the winter. This will ensure that pets from underprivileged families are kept dry and warm," she said.
She also addressed a common misconception about pet ownership in townships.
“Even though many people have the opinion that pets aren’t loved in townships, we experience the opposite. People adore their pets; they often just lack education or resources. With this initiative, we will be helping people and educating at the same time, ensuring better pet lives into the future.”
The campaign builds on the success of last year’s Mandela Day efforts, with FOUR PAWS encouraging individuals, schools, corporates, and community groups to get involved.
“Your 67 minutes can become a gift of comfort, care, and dignity,” said Ms Miles.
To learn more or make a donation, visit www.four-paws.org.za.