NEWS
In October 2025, the University of the Free State opened Africa’s first giraffe research centre at Amanzi Private Game Reserve. Led by Prof Francois Deacon, it combines ethical, welfare-focused study with reproductive science, conservation, and community engagement, aiming to protect wild giraffes, preserve genetic diversity, and tackle habitat fragmentation, poaching, and population decline.
COMPANION ANIMALS
South Africa faces foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks in cloven-hoofed animals, driven by animal movements, wildlife reservoirs, and persistent biosecurity gaps. Effective control requires movement restrictions, active surveillance, farmer education, and coordinated government-farmer action. Locally adapted strategies, vigilance, and careful planning are essential to protect livestock, national trade, and overall food security.
NEWS
The Vet’s Hub speaks to Dr Shona Elliott, a University of Pretoria (Onderstepoort) graduate specialising in ophthalmology and diagnostic ultrasound, about a recent case at Craighall Veterinary Hospital, Johannesburg, where swift veterinary intervention and innovative canine blood donation saved a critically ill recipient dog’s life.
NEWS
Nutrition is a cornerstone of preventive and therapeutic care in veterinary medicine. Vet’s Hub interviews Drs Angeliki Kaldelis and Debby Bain, Scientific Communications Managers at Royal Canin South Africa. They share insights on trends, dietary strategies, and the latest evidence in small animal nutrition, helping veterinarians better support the health and wellbeing of their patients.
NEWS
Veterinary ophthalmology is a highly specialised field that blends precision, technology, and compassion. Drs Antony Goodhead, Paul Burger, and Brent Sirrals and the team at Johannesburg Animal Eye Hospital manage an extraordinary range of cases – from cats and dogs to horses, rhinos, and even tigers.
INDUSTRY & PRODUCTS
For most veterinarians, prescribed treatment plans often don’t match available medicines. Chronic patients may need non-standard doses, cats refuse certain formulations, and rabbits, reptiles, birds, wildlife, and production animals often lack suitable labelled options. Products can also be discontinued or out of stock. V-Tech deliberately fills this critical gap between clinical need and market supply.