The Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Khayelitsha is reeling after a devastating crash on Tuesday evening that saw a drunk driver plough a truck into the facility’s operating theatre.
This tragedy marks the second vehicle-related incident in just 48 hours, with another car crashing into the clinic’s perimeter fence on Monday.
“This is damage of an enormous scale – something we could never have budgeted or prepared for,” said Marcelle du Plessis, the clinic’s Fundraising and Communications Executive.
Widespread Destruction
While the operating theatre and storage room were left in ruins, du Plessis confirmed that no animals or staff were harmed in the crash.
“We are devastated, but we are also thankful that everyone is safe,” she said.
The loss of the surgical space has placed the clinic under immense pressure, disrupting its ability to provide critical veterinary care to Khayelitsha’s animals.
Emergency Appeal to Rebuild
The clinic has launched an emergency fundraising appeal to rebuild the theatre and restore operations as soon as possible.
“Every contribution, no matter the size, will help us recover from this disaster,” Du Plessis said.
The non-profit clinic, which serves thousands of animals each year, is calling on the public and corporate sponsors to support its recovery.
How to Help
Donations can be made to:
Mdzananda Animal Clinic
Nedbank
Current Account
Branch Code: 198765
Account Number: 1314465147
Reference: damage + your name
The clinic, which has long served as a beacon of hope for animals in Khayelitsha, is determined to continue its work, despite the overwhelming setback.
Staff say their commitment to animal welfare is unwavering, but rebuilding will require urgent financial and material assistance.
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