Photo: Dr. Arnold Kanengoni, a former zoo vet and current lecturer at the University of Pretoria, and Dr. Calvin Smith, a practicing veterinarian at the Joburg Zoo
On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the Joburg Zoo marked Veterinary Day—a special occasion dedicated to honoring the veterinarians who care for both wildlife and beloved domestic animals. Organized by Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), the event featured a breakfast gathering from 9 AM to 12 PM, giving attendees a chance to celebrate and show appreciation for the dedicated professionals behind animal care.
During the event, two veterinarians were interviewed: Dr. Arnold Kanengoni, a former zoo vet and current lecturer at the University of Pretoria, and Dr. Calvin Smith, a practicing veterinarian at the Joburg Zoo. Both offered thoughtful insights into the unique demands of their profession.
Dr. Smith explained that treating wild animals often mirrors caring for domestic pets, but with additional complexity. “Most of these animals can’t be handled without immobilizing them,” he said. “They receive annual vaccinations and health checks, and with over 500 animals in the zoo, it takes a dedicated team to manage their care.”
He stressed the importance of teamwork in zoo veterinary work: “We have animal caretakers and keepers who alert us if something is wrong. From there, we assess the situation to determine if intervention is needed.”
Dr. Smith also discussed the risks associated with anesthesia in wild animals. “Every time you anesthetize something, there are many possibilities for things to go wrong,” he noted. Close monitoring of vital signs is critical to ensure the animal’s safety during procedures.
Dr. Kanengoni spoke about the demands of veterinary training. “Becoming a vet involves six years of study, and you must master a wide range of species,” he explained. “It’s not just about dogs and cats—you need to be prepared to treat everything from reptiles to rhinos.”
Both doctors encouraged aspiring veterinarians to pursue their passion, regardless of whether their path leads to exotic or domestic animal care. “There are always opportunities to help local wildlife, even if you’re a small animal vet,” Dr. Smith noted.
As the morning wrapped up, Dr. Kanengoni left young animal lovers with a powerful message: “It’s essential to have a passion for animals and understand the realities of the profession. It’s not just about loving animals—you must be ready for the challenges too.”
The celebration at the Joburg Zoo served as a powerful reminder of the essential role veterinarians play in safeguarding animal health—and the importance of inspiring future generations to follow in their footsteps.
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