Animal clinic provides a boost for pet care in S African community
An education centre has opened in a township just outside Cape Town in South Africa, to teach and empower pet owners in the community.
Launched by the Mdzananda Animal Clinic, the centre has opened in Khayelitsha - a community of 1.5 million people.
The clinic provides healthcare to pets in the area, but also believes education of pet owners is key. A research project by the clinic's main funder, the International Fund of Animal Welfare, found members of the community appear to dearly love their pets, but lack knowledge of how to care for them.
Veterinary surgeon Dr Brian Bergman said he has noticed a significant change in people's attitudes to animals during his time working with the clinic. "I believe this is because of the existence of the clinic," he says.
The new education centre will double up as a waiting room for pet consultations, filled with simple educational poster and televisions playing educational videos.
Monthly workshops will also be held there at weekends, covering the basics of pet care, healthcare, respect for animals' lives and how individuals can make a difference. In addition, there are hopes for weekly puppy classes at the centre.
The centre will officially open on March 15 at 10am, after which an educational session will be held on "How to make wholesome, homemade food for your pet".
Image courtesy of Mdzananda Animal Clinic
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
