Doc Mashila finds passion as a vet

Growing up in Venda, Khodani Mashila says he always dreamt of becoming a doctor one day.

When he was in Gr 10, he was, however introducedduced to a veterinarian who worked with lions and he immediately ediately knew that this might become a passion.

Today, Dr Mashila looks back on his journey, and says his mother initially did not want him to becomecome a veterinarian.

“Human doctors were the only type of doctors we knew in the villages. My mom was doubtful of my career choice, but today she sees that I am reallyy happy with my choice.”

Mashila got a full bursary at the University of Pretoria where he also finished his studies.

He says his first job was at a private clinic in Pietermaritzburg where he admits, he learned a lot. He is proud to say he is the first person in his familyy to have obtained a degree.

“The clinic was run by a group of young people e with a passion for animals. I learned so much from om them. In 2018 I moved back to Limpopo and settled ttled in Phalaborwa where I was a locum for a few years. ears. Here I learned how to treat bigger animals such as horses and cattle as well as pets. I absolutely loveve cows and to work with them.”

Mashila recently opened a veterinary clinic, Polokwane olokwane Vet Clinic.

“I offer all kinds of treatment for animals, including uding sterilisation, vaccinations and microchipping. We also stock dog and cat food.”

They have discounts in October for certain services,vices, including sterilisation and vaccinations.

Walk-ins are welcome, but for sterilisations, it is better to make an appointment, he advised.

When at home, Mashila is newly married and the father of three dogs himself: a Great Dane, a Sharpei and a Yorkshirerkshire Terrier.