Department reaches out to ‘poor’ animal owners

THE NORTHERN Cape Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development’s Veterinary Services is urging communities in Kimberley to make use of its veterinary clinic.

The purpose of the clinic is to assist people of lower income households (including pensioners, the unemployed and Sassa beneficiaries) to access veterinary care for their domestic animals and livestock. It also seeks to close the gap between disadvantaged communities who did not have access to veterinary services before, due to financial constraints.

Departmental spokesman, Phemelo Manankong, said yesterday that while this services were not free, the cost of veterinary care was subsidised by the Department of Agriculture to make treatment affordable to people within these categories. Proof of income can be requested.

The clinic is able to provide the following services: vaccinations, sterilisations, basic treatment of primary diseases, farm visits and herd health advice and farmer education and demonstrations.

“The clinic is run by veterinarians completing their Compulsory Service with the aim of providing veterinary services to communities.”

Members of the public can call the clinic on 087 630 0274 or 083 302 3716. While walk-ins can be assisted, it is advisable to phone first to ensure that a veterinarian is available.