By OBAKENG MAJE
17 December 2024- In a bid to prioritize animal health and welfare, state veterinary clinics across the North West, will remain operational throughout the festive season. This is to ensure an uninterrupted access to critical veterinary services for farmers, pet owners, and the public.
The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha said, while clinics will operate with skeletal staff, every effort has been made to ensure no one requiring essential veterinary care will be turned away.
Sambatha further said services will be available during regular working hours, except for public holidays, ensuring minimal disruption to animal health needs. He added that this is an important initiative.
“Like human beings, animals have critical healthcare needs that cannot be overlooked. This initiative reflects our commitment to strengthening veterinary services across the province.
“The health and welfare of animals are central to the well-being of our agricultural sector and the communities we serve. This necessary arrangement guarantees farmers and pet owners’ continuous access to veterinary care during this busy period,” said Sambatha.
He said farmers and pet owners are encouraged to make full use of these services to ensure the health, productivity, and safety of their animals. Sambatha also extended heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated veterinary staff, who have selflessly committed to working during this period.
“We acknowledge their sacrifices in ensuring uninterrupted service delivery, while they could have been with their families.
“This initiative is part of the department’s broader effort to prevent and control animal diseases, which, if left unchecked, could negatively impact agriculture, a critical pillar of the provincial economy,” said Sambatha.
The Guardian 