Khayelitsha fire leaves families and animals in crisis

Khayelitsha fire leaves families and animals in crisis! The devastating fire that swept through Khayelitsha’s Site C informal settlement on 29 January 2025 has left hundreds of people homeless and countless animals missing, injured, or in distress.

As emergency services worked to control the fire, animal welfare organisations mobilised to rescue and care for pets left behind. The Mdzananda Animal Clinic and the Cape of Good Hope SPCA have been on the ground, tirelessly searching for lost or injured animals.

Over 200 Homes Destroyed, Families Left With Nothing

The fire destroyed more than 200 homes, leaving families with nothing but the clothes on their backs. While the focus has largely been on assisting human victims, animal welfare groups are deeply concerned about the fate of pets caught in the fire.

“What we have encountered is heartbreaking,” said Mdzananda Animal Clinic spokesperson Marcelle du Plessis.

“Families are desperate to find their beloved pets, while many animals are suffering from injuries, terrified, or missing.”

Animals Trapped or Injured in the Fire

The Mdzananda team has been searching the fire-ravaged area since the incident occurred.

“Luckily, there aren’t many injured dogs, but we did find two dead dogs in the fire,” said Du Plessis.

“We have also come across some severely neglected animals that we have brought back to our clinic for treatment.”

One of the biggest risks during informal settlement fires is that many animals are left locked inside homes while their owners are at work.

“Fires are unexpected, and when people are not at home, there is nothing they can do to save their pets,” Du Plessis explained.

Dogs that are chained or kept in enclosures are often unable to escape, leading to tragic losses.

SPCA Joins Rescue Efforts

The Cape of Good Hope Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has also joined rescue efforts, mobilising as soon as it was safe to enter the affected area.

SPCA spokesperson Belinda Abrahams highlighted the importance of providing shelter and medical care for animals in such disasters.

“Our team enters affected areas as soon as it is deemed safe, searching for injured, displaced, or distressed animals,” said Abrahams.

“We also offer a safe sanctuary for pets whose owners have lost their homes.”

The SPCA works alongside other rescue organisations and emergency responders to ensure that no animal is left behind.

Financial and Resource Strain on Animal Clinics

While these rescue efforts are crucial, taking in a large number of animals places a significant financial strain on animal welfare groups.

The Mdzananda Animal Clinic has issued an urgent appeal for public support to help fund emergency rescue operations, medical treatment, fuel, and transport costs.

“This is a crisis, and we need all the help we can get,” Du Plessis urged.

“Every minute counts. Every donation saves a life.”

How to Help – Donations Needed

Members of the public are encouraged to donate money, supplies, or other essential resources to assist both humans and animals affected by the fire.

Monetary Donations:

To support the Mdzananda Animal Clinic’s emergency rescue efforts, donations can be made to:

• Bank: Standard Bank
• Account Number: 075595710
• Branch: Rondebosch
• Branch Code: 025009
• Reference: Fire + Your Name
• Online Donations: Visit Mdzananda Animal Clinic’s website

In-Kind Donations:

The public is also encouraged to donate essential items, including:

• Building materials to help families rebuild
• Clothing and blankets
• Non-perishable food for both people and animals
• Pet food and medical supplies

Drop-off Location:

• Mdzananda Animal Clinic
• 21297 Govan Mbeki Road, Mandela Park, Khayelitsha

Rebuilding Lives and Rescuing Animals

As the community of Khayelitsha begins the long road to recovery, both people and their pets need urgent help.

With the support of animal welfare groups, volunteers, and the public, countless animals can be saved, reunited with their owners, or given a second chance at life.

For those looking to make a difference, every contribution, big or small, will provide relief and hope to those affected by this tragic disaster.