SAVC Registrar/CEO Mongezi Menye; Mozambique Vet Council President, Dr Anna Flavia Azinheira; SAVC president Dr Nandipha Ndudane; World Veterinary Association, Dr James Ouma and Veterinary Association of Zambia, Dr Malcolm Chiyoba.
SOUTH AFRICAN VETERINARY COUNCIL
President’s message
Update on our legal compliance project
Out and about with the SAVC
The FAO gives a boost to sustainable animal health service provision through training for para-veterinary professionals
Understanding continuing professional development
Understanding the assessment of complaints
Giving an estimate of costs to a client is a necessity, not an option
Suicidal thoughts among veterinary and para-veterinary professionals: the taboo we never talk about
Announcement of the World Rabies Day theme for 2024
How to register on and log into the Registree Portal
163 vultures take a road trip to a new home to secure their future
Two Oceans Aquarium to build Africa’s largest Turtle Conservation Centre
Celebrating Veterinary Technologist Day
Honouring our vets as essential health workers on World Veterinary Day
Keep an eye on your emails for our webinar invitations
Follow the SAVC on social media
Thank you for responding to our survey in record numbers In memoriam
Bird’s-eye view
President’s message
Dear Registrees (and future veterinary and para-veterinary professionals)
In the spirit of continuous improvement, this edition of The Council’s Voice highlights the multifaceted aspects of wellness and compliance that are integral to our professions.
Here is a snapshot of what we, as the Council, have been focusing on in recent months:
Wellness and compliance
At the heart of veterinary service lies the dual commitment to animal welfare and the highest standards of professional conduct. Informed consent and transparent communication about cost estimates for services to be rendered are not just regulatory requirements, but are also fundamental to the trust our clients place in us. The SAVC’s meticulous approach to handling complaints attests to our commitment to accountability and legal compliance. Our Project Compliance initiative stands as a beacon of our dedication to these principles.
Survey engagement
Our recent survey has yielded a positive response and valuable insights, shaping the future trajectory of the Council’s endeavours. Your voices have been heard, and they resonate in our actions.
Bird’s-eye view
Elections and professional participation
The recent South African elections underscored the importance of participation, both as citizens and professionals. Engaging in electoral processes (be they for your country or your profession) is not only a civic duty but also a professional imperative, influencing the governance and future of veterinary science.
Disease outbreaks
The outbreaks of avian influenza in dairy cattle and humans, along with foot-and-mouth disease in the Eastern Cape, have posed significant challenges. Our collective expertise and vigilance are crucial in managing and controlling these diseases, to safeguard the health of our livestock and communities.
Support for students
To our students embarking on their mid-year examinations, know that the SAVC stands with you. Your dedication to learning and your passion for animal health and welfare are the foundations upon which the future of our professions will be built.
Stakeholder engagement
The SAVC Exco is poised to commence with our second round of stakeholder meetings, a strategic step towards enhancing our visibility and interactions with government leaders and educational establishments dealing with veterinary matters. These dialogues are pivotal in fortifying our collective mission and fostering a collaborative future.
World Veterinary Association Congress
On behalf of the SAVC, I extend my congratulations to the South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) for successfully hosting the World Veterinary Association Congress in Cape Town in April. The remarkable engagement, diverse attendees and comprehensive topics discussed made it a truly memorable event.
International collaboration
Our participation in a recent visitation to the University of Cambridge in England is a significant milestone, reflecting our commitment to maintaining the global standards of veterinary qualifications and fostering international academic exchange.
As we navigate these complex yet rewarding times, let us unite in our efforts to advance veterinary science and uphold the integrity of our respective professions.
Warm regards,
Dr Nandipha Toyota Ndudane President: SAVC
Update on our legal compliance project
Thank you to our registrees for supporting Project Compliance. This 18-month project, which will conclude in September, aims to address compliance issues relating to bogus veterinarians or paraveterinary professionals; unregistered professionals; and unregistered and non-compliant facilities in our sector through the dedicated ExposeIT whistle-blower platform.
Here are the numbers as of 20 May 2024:
• Number of registrations via the mobile application: 133 (up from 106 reported during the April Council meeting)
• Number of incidents reported: 84 (up from 53)
• Of the 84 reported incidents:
o 48 have been closed as invalid
o 36 are under investigation
• Of the 36 incidents under investigation:
o 17 relate to fake veterinary or para-veterinary professionals
o 13 relate to non-compliant facilities
o 6 relate to unregistered facilities
Report complaints anonymously
Registrees and members of the public can report alleged incidents of non-compliance anonymously via the ExposeIT whistle-blower platform
Download the app by following these instructions to report suspected criminal activity.
SAVC news, views and insights
Out and about with the SAVC
University of Pretoria
The SAVC engaged with fourth-year veterinary students at the University of Pretoria (UP) (left), and (right) held a meeting with UP’s interim leadership on the Hatfield campus. Front (from left): Prof. Themba Mosia (UP Interim Vice-Chancellor), Dr Boitshoko Ntshabele (SAVC team leader). Back (from left): Lenora Erasmus (SAVC administration team), Prof. Malcolm Cobb (Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons representative), Prof. Vinny Naidoo (Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Science at UP), Prof. Rhoda Leask (Deputy Dean: Teaching and Learning at UP’s Faculty of Veterinary Science), Prof. Tim Parkinson (Australasian Veterinary Boards Council representative) and Leonie Westcott (SAVC administration team).
Tshwane University of Technology Tsolo Agriculture and Rural Development Institute
During the recent Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) prize-giving, the SAVC presented the award for the best overall achievement in BHSci (Veterinary Technology) to Mikyla Nel (centre), who is flanked by the SAVC’s Mpho Mojanaga and Micaela Farmer.
The SAVC was well represented at the recent graduation ceremony for students at the Tsolo Agriculture and Rural Development Institute (TARDI), at which SAVC president Dr Nandipha Ndudane serves as principal.
news, views and insights
BKB/FAO meeting (Eastern Cape) – AHTs
A BKB/FAO meeting in the Eastern Cape, part of a project aimed at assisting a pioneer group of unemployed AHTs to establish their own primary animal healthcare businesses. More than 15 institutions in both the public and private sectors, including pharmaceutical companies, state entities, cooperatives and farms, provided four weeks of work placement to the trainees.
World Veterinary Association Congress
Constructive engagements, peer learning and networking were the order of the day at the recent World Veterinary Association Congress in Cape Town, attended by the SAVC's Exco and three staff members.
The FAO gives a boost to sustainable animal health service provision through training for para-veterinary professionals
As part of its project on Sustainable Business in Animal Health Service Provision through Training for Veterinary Paraprofessionals, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has been helping a group of unemployed animal health technicians (AHTs) in South Africa to establish their primary animal healthcare businesses.
The FAO partnered with the Tsolo Agriculture and Rural Development Institute (TARDI) to deliver the comprehensive eight-month “Building a Primary Animal Healthcare Business” training programme in 2023.
This programme equipped 44 unemployed AHTs from North West and the Eastern Cape with essential skills in business and preventive healthcare. It also provided refresher training on clinical skills and assisted with work placements. Furthermore, the AHTs were mentored by seasoned AHTs and veterinarians from both the public and private sectors.
Participants in the FAO’s AHT mentorship programme in South Africa.
A call for applications to participate in the mentorship and work placement programme was released in March 2023. About 30 professionals – veterinarians and AHTs – were selected to mentor the trainees.
More than 15 institutions, organisations and companies across sectors – including pharmaceutical companies, state entities, private practices, cooperatives and farms – provided four weeks of work placement to the trainees during June and July 2023.
The FAO hosted mentor-mentee introductory workshops in the Eastern Cape and North West in September and October 2023, respectively. The workshops aimed to introduce the mentors to the mentees, and discuss the working modalities of mentorship and the expectations of both groups.
Various stakeholders have been instrumental in ensuring that the project achieves its objectives and contributes to improving veterinary service delivery to smallholder farmers and their herds.
We are pleased to report that nine AHTs (seven from the Eastern Cape and two from North West) from the programme have registered their primary animal healthcare (PAHC) facilities with the SAVC. A further six AHTs (two from the Eastern Cape and four from North West) have submitted paperwork to the SAVC to register such facilities.
The FAO continues to support and encourage South Africa’s AHTs to register and start their PAHC businesses, despite the various challenges they may face.
North West mentors and mentees at the FAO workshop held in Mahikeng.
Understanding continuing professional development
What is CPD?
Continuing professional development, or CPD, is the ongoing process of developing, maintaining and documenting your professional skills. These skills can be acquired formally, through courses or training, or informally, at work or by coaching others. This is to ensure that individuals who are qualified and practising keep their skills and abilities relevant to the changing operating environment.
CPD ensures that you maintain and improve the knowledge and skills you need to provide a professional service to your clients and the community. This will allow you to stay up to date with the changing trends and developments in your profession.
CPD cycles
CPD cycles are three years in duration, and start on 1 April. If you are qualified and register before 1 April, your first cycle starts on 1 April of the same year; but if you register after 1 April, your first CPD cycle only starts on 1 April of the following year.
It’s important to note when your first cycle starts – if your CPD cycle has yet to start, CPD providers can't load points for events attended outside of this cycle. Visit your portal account to view this information.
Example of a CPD cycle: 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2027. Note that students and authorised persons (individuals who, despite not being registered professionals, are authorised to render specified services under specific circumstances from time to time under the supervision of a veterinarian, subject to certain conditions) are not required to undertake CPD, and providers cannot load points for them.
CPD points
Veterinarians need 20 structured and 40 unstructured points, and para-veterinary professionals need 15 structured and 35 unstructured points, per three-year cycle.
The hard-working staff (including receptionist Nicky Wilmers, AHT Taya Schwartz and physiotherapist Danielle Wilkinson) with patient Coco at the Wild Coast Vet in East London.
SAVC online CPD application process: accreditation of CPD events and online allocation of structured CPD points – how does it impact on you?
Find the SAVC CPD Provider Portal here: https://cpdportal.savc.org.za/
An online process for CPD service providers for the accreditation of CPD events and the awarding of CPD points was rolled out in October 2019. The online CPD process means that when you have attended an SAVC online accredited CPD event, the CPD points will automatically reflect in your CPD cycle’s structured points column once the providers have uploaded the event. If it is not uploaded, follow up with the service provider.
When you have accumulated the required number of structured points, any remaining points uploaded will automatically be transferred to the unstructured points column, so as not to waste these points. Structured CPD points cannot be transferred to another cycle's structured points.
You cannot upload your own structured points to your Registree Portal account, as this functionality is only available to CPD providers. Only CPD points accredited via the online system (from October 2019) can be uploaded to your profile by the event provider.
Providers can upload structured CPD points even if a cycle has closed, as points are uploaded per attendance date.
Manual accreditation process
Proof of attendance for all activities accredited prior to October 2019 must be saved under “My
documents” on your Registree Portal account. The CPD service providers and SAVC administration staff cannot upload these CPD points to your profile on the portal.
Send an email to cpd@savc.org.za for queries relating to CPD cycles and points allocation.
Lists of accredited CPD events
Every month, the SAVC administration team uploads the updated CPD lists for accredited events relating to each profession on the SAVC website, under “Continuing professional development (CPD)”. Navigate to “List of CPD events” for your profession (third blue menu item) under the CPD menu on the website to see which events you would like to attend.
Individual allocation of CPD points
For activities abroad (that cannot be accredited by our CPD committee) or South African activities attended by five people or fewer (that also cannot be accredited), SAVC registrees can apply for the individual allocation of CPD points after attending these events, to claim their structured CPD points.
Presenters (who are SAVC registrees) can also claim structured CPD points via the individual allocation process for the hours spent preparing and presenting CPD activities.
For both of the above, email Lenora Erasmus at edu.coordinator@savc.org.za. She will let you know what information is needed.
The CPD committee only accredits activities that last one hour or more (the principle of one hour for one structured CPD is followed). Also, please note that you can only apply for the allocation of individual CPD points within the current cycle.
Registree Portal
You can view your cycles and CPD points under “CPD” within your Registree Portal account.
Find the SAVC Registree Portal here: https://portal.savc.org.za/
Unstructured CPD points
You can only upload your own unstructured points under “CPD” in the Registree Portal. You will also find the downloadable CPD points allocation document here. Note that you can only upload and edit unstructured points until the CPD cycle closes.
It has come to our attention that some people/providers are using an internal AC/0022/19 number to load unstructured points. Please do not use this, as it does not upload your points correctly, and then the administration team has to recalculate each person's points manually to correct them in the database.
CPD deferment/exemptions
Please immediately apply for deferment if your CPD cycle is nearing its end and you are not CPD compliant. Also, if you were medically boarded or abroad, or are a postgraduate/diploma student, unemployed, etc., and need to apply for exemption. Contact Mandisa Gumede at cpd@savc.org.za for assistance.
Tebogo Nkoana, a veterinary welfare assistant from Polokwane, undertakes an anatomy practical for her animal health technician qualification.
Understanding the assessment of complaints
By Thami Mvunyiswa,
Often, when we speak to members of the veterinary and para-veterinary professions, they express concern about the complaints process. In particular, they are worried about members of the public running to the SAVC with accusations, thinking that any allegations will simply be accepted at face value.
We realise this can be very stressful for registrees and would like to offer them peace of mind by explaining how we assess complaints.
Assessment based on formal requirements
On receipt of a complaint, the SAVC assesses it against the formal requirements in terms of Rule 2(1)-(6), as follows:
• The complaint is in the form of a duly commissioned affidavit and complies with the Justices of the Peace and Commissioners of Oaths Act (No. 16 of 1963)
• The complaint is not based on incidents that occurred more than 12 months prior to it being lodged, and where it is, there is a substantiated condonation application accompanying the complaint
• No complaint lodged after a period of 12 months has elapsed is entertained, unless condonation has been granted
Should the complaint not comply with these requirements, we advise the complainants accordingly and guide them appropriately. Failure to comply with the formal requirements will result in the Council not entertaining the complaint.
SAVC Deputy Director: Investigations
SAVC news, views and insights
Assessment based on validity
Once we are satisfied that the complaint meets the formal requirements laid out above, the matter is assessed on its merits to establish the following:
• Whether the nature of the allegations constitutes a valid complaint
• Whether it is a matter that falls within the jurisdiction of the SAVC
• In certain instances, and where mediation may be possible, we advise the parties on the possibility of mediation arranged by the SAVC and assist them accordingly
Referral to an investigation
Only when we are satisfied that the complaint complies with the formal requirements, is valid and falls within the Council's jurisdiction, and there is no possibility of mediation or mediation was unsuccessful, will the matter be investigated in terms of the Rules.
Image by Fernando Lacerda Branco/Pexels
SAVC news, views and insights
Assessment by investigating
• When an investigation is concluded, the matter is presented to the Investigation Committee (IC), which considers the evidentiary material and makes a determination as to whether the matter should be dismissed or be referred to an Inquiry Body (IB) for hearing, or whether it should issue an informal warning to the respondent
• Only where the IC is satisfied that there is a transgression of the Act or the Rules, and that there is prima facie (at face value) evidence of unprofessional conduct, will it refer the matter to a hearing
• In instances where the IC is of the view that the matter is not of such a serious nature as to warrant a hearing by an IB, it may issue an informal warning against the respondent registree
From the above, it is evident that the SAVC has clear processes that are designed to be fair to all parties – and that the same processes also guard against frivolous complaints. The assessment of complaints considers, among other things, the validity of a complaint – and a frivolous one will be rejected by the Investigation Committee.
The decision is that of the IC. For us to reach the point where the IC is able to make such a determination, we would have gone through the investigation process. Hence, registrees against whom a complaint is lodged are advised to allow the process to unfold and to cooperate with the investigation.
While it is indeed concerning to have a complaint lodged against one's name, it must be noted that not all complaints result in a guilty finding. In the preceding three IC determinations (as of May/June 2024), an average of 51% of complaints were dismissed, and only 31%, on average, were referred to an IB for a hearing. The remaining 18% of complaints accounted for informal warnings issued.
The SAVC has clearly set out processes for handling complaints and is empowered by the Veterinary and ParaVeterinary Professions Act (No. 19 of 1982) to investigate and adjudicate complaints of unprofessional conduct. These processes are fair to all affected and are also informed by the general principles of natural justice.
As such, a respondent against whom a complaint is lodged is not only informed of the complaint but is also allowed an opportunity to file an answer to the allegations made against them. This is a very important principle of natural justice, allowing them not only to refute the allegations but to present their side of events. This ensures that any decision on the guilt or innocence of a respondent will be supported by evidence, whether at the Investigation Committee level or after a hearing, if applicable.
by Burak The Weekender/Pexels
Image
Powers of the IB
Upon making a guilty finding against a respondent, the IB is empowered to impose a sanction in terms of section 33(1) of the Act, which may be to do one of the following:
• Reprimand or caution him/her formally
• Impose a fine to a maximum of R500 000
• Impose conditions and restrictions under which the person concerned may, for a specified period, practise the profession for which he/she is registered
• Suspend his/her registration for a certain period and subject to certain conditions determined by the Council
• Withdraw his/her registration
When imposing a sanction, the Council considers relevant factors, including:
• The respondent's personal and practice-related circumstances
• The nature and seriousness of the transgression
• The interests of the profession and/or the complainants
The suspension or withdrawal of a registree’s registration usually only occurs in serious cases or in the case of repeated transgressions.
The Council does not take pleasure in suspending or withdrawing the registration of its registrees, as this has a huge impact on their rights to practise their chosen profession, earn an income and provide for themselves, their families and those they employ or who depend on them. As such, the Council approaches the suspension or withdrawal of registration as a sanction of last resort and only applies it in cases where this is warranted.
We hope that explaining this process will ease your concerns. Please contact the SAVC’s Legal Division at https://savc.org. za/contact-us/ if you have any questions. We are here to assist you.
Image courtesy of Stellenbosch Animal Hospital
SAVC news, views and insights
Giving an estimate of costs to a client is a necessity, not an option
By the SAVC’s Legal Division
We are increasingly confronted by clients who are aggrieved because their veterinarians did not provide them with an estimate of costs relating to the services to be rendered to the patient. It is expected that a similar trend will follow once more para-veterinary facilities are opened.
Some of these clients even reason that if no estimate is provided, then fees need not be paid. Even though that is not the case, one can understand the person's point of view, in that they might not have the necessary funds and may have considered another route. This could include conservative treatment by informed consent, referral to a welfare organisation or euthanasia in order to avoid adverse cost implications, especially in the tough economic times we are experiencing.
We acknowledge that it is often difficult to provide a client with an approximation of costs due to the many variables involved in treating a patient, including unforeseen complications, which frequently happen and are frequently summarily attributed to the negligence of the veterinarian. That is, however, not an excuse to avoid providing an estimate, and then updating the client should conditions change. The veterinarian could delegate this task to the receptionist or veterinary nurse if need be, in the face of time constraints.
Rule 9 of the rules pertaining to the veterinary profession was specifically drafted to accommodate the time pressures and emergencies that veterinarians face. It provides that a veterinary professional must inform a client of the approximate fee that he/she intends to charge for treating an animal as soon as is practically reasonable after the patient has been examined. The rules for the para-veterinary professions include a similar provision.
In the event of an emergency, the estimate must be provided as soon as the patient is stabilised and when an additional service is anticipated, even during surgery when complications occur.
If fees for standard procedures are advertised in the vet’s reception area, an estimate of fees for this purpose need not be given to the client.
The veterinary or para-veterinary professional must, on an ongoing basis, unless in the case of an emergency, keep the client up to date with the costs and inform them if more expenses are to be incurred in treating the patient successfully.
It is also important that an itemised account is presented to the client as soon as possible, but no later than 30 days after the service was rendered, should payment be required.
Adhering to this rule is a simple way to avoid the stress of a complaint of unprofessional conduct!
to remove all the bladder stones
placed into a loving new home
remain
to
Showing compassion and care: veterinary nurse Antoinette Smit with a Maltese cross stray that came into the veterinary hospital where she works in a bad way. “I cleaned her up, she had surgery
and was successfully
and named Poppie. She will forever
dear
my heart,” says Sr Smit.
Striving towards wellness
Suicidal thoughts among veterinary and para-veterinary professionals: the taboo we never talk about
This is the first in a six-part article series dealing with psychological well-being in the veterinary and para-veterinary professions. Future articles will deal with depression and anxiety’ burnout and compassion fatigue; emotion awareness and emotional labour; working with loss and grief; and trauma and stress management.
By Retha Watson (MA: Industrial Psychology)
With permission from: www.vet360.co.za
Image by LUDDMYLA/Pexels
You dream of being a veterinary or para-veterinary professional because of your love for animals. One would never think that you and members of your veterinary team are not passionate and dedicated animal lovers. You get to work with what you love, so it should be a dream occupation, right?
Yet within this sub-population suicide rates are significantly higher, locally and internationally, than those of police officials, firefighters and paramedics. Research shows that suicide among veterinary professionals is 17% higher than in the general population of South Africa.
People often say things like, “You get to work with puppies every day; I wish I could do that,” or “You’re so lucky to work as a veterinarian; you get to earn a living by doing what you love.” However, the reality is far more complex. When an animal patient, who cannot communicate its needs, comes through the door and its family sees you as a superhero, you face a multitude of emotions, stress and trauma.
Moreover, these challenges are not limited to companion animals. In production animal settings, veterinary professionals sometimes have to cull entire herds. In animal welfare environments, euthanising animals on a daily basis is a common and emotionally taxing part of the job. Additionally, those involved in animal research may have to experiment on animals regularly, which also takes an emotional toll.
Being a veterinary or para-veterinary professional is not just about the joy of working with animals; it also involves dealing with profound ethical dilemmas and emotional challenges on a daily basis.
The perception that it is a win-win situation to work with what you love is not true, as you are often confronted with the negative and sometimes horrific side of what you are passionate about.
It is therefore important that a supportive culture is created within veterinary practices. Suicidal ideas, depression and anxiety do not discriminate; they can take hold of any person at any time. Make time to socialise, have a cup of coffee and debrief or ventilate. If that is not part of your organisational culture, change the culture – it may just save a life.
Image by Tom D'Arby/Pexels
Tips for coping with workplace anxiety
• Communication helps: if you do not have a supportive circle, make use of professional support (see page 34 for more information)
• Work on your emotional competence: try to regulate your emotions, and find a way to ventilate them and not suppress them
• Get a hobby or exercise routine outside of work: never allow your own healing time to be swallowed up by work
• Practise mindfulness: be thankful in the moment for all the tangible and intangible things in your life
• Delegate: if you are a vet, consider asking a trained administrative person to take over the follow-up calls after a patient’s death for issues such as cremation or to talk to clients who may find closure difficult. Such a person should typically be trained in psychological first aid
• Make time to follow up: check in on those patients that you did manage to give a second chance to, because it is important to hear good news and see your past patients thriving. Focus more on the positive feedback and successful recoveries than on the sad and often inevitable tragedies. Even in the event of the inevitable, your clients would be grateful for your compassion and support
• Reach out and get help: ask for professional assistance for yourself or on behalf of a colleague who you are concerned about
– Dr Rachel Naomi Remen “ ”
The expectation that we can be immersed in suffering and loss daily and not be touched by it is as unrealistic as expecting to be able to walk through water without getting wet.
Image by Roger Brown/Pexels
What are the reasons for suicide ideation in the veterinary environment?
• The personality of a high-performing individual leans naturally towards depression and anxiety –their capacity to perform academically is also the reason they are susceptible to psychological illness
• Occupational stressors include a toxic working environment, high workload, understaffing, poor work culture, a culture of blaming among colleagues, and an unhealthy focus on animal welfare leading to long working hours
• Being confronted with distressing situations such as animal abuse and neglect
• Pet and farm owners depend on veterinarians to make recommendations regarding the life-anddeath decisions they have to make
• Chronic fatigue and exhaustion
• Outstanding student debts and other financial stressors
• Experiencing moral distress and ethical conflicts on a daily basis
• Unrealistic client expectations – often related to restricted finances
• Risks pertaining to patient procedures and expected outcomes
• Unexpected patient outcomes
• Daily exposure to euthanasia and the trauma and emotions that accompany the process
• Being primarily traumatised or affected by the injury or death of a patient, and then being further traumatised when witnessing the distress of the family or young children
• Professional isolation
• Rising veterinary costs that affect clients’ ability to afford treatment for treatable conditions
• The routine communication of bad news to clients
• Interpersonal conflicts
• Generational disconnect – older professionals do not always understand the younger generations, and vice versa
• Lack of support from senior staff members
• A poor work-life balance that may influence both professional and social relationships
• Emotional labour – being exposed to the negative emotions of clients and having to suppress your own emotions due to professional expectations and ethics. The suppression of negative emotions makes individuals physically and psychologically ill
• The stigma around talking about one’s experiences and seeking professional support, fearing that it will affect professional credibility
• Compassion fatigue and burnout
Many registrees may identify with all or some of the factors mentioned above, so we need to know what the warning signs are. How do I know if I or a colleague may be at risk? In suicides, warning signs may be subtle but they are always there. We need to create an internal awareness system of listening to others, even if they do not say a word. This may be easier said than done, especially if you suffer from compassion fatigue or burnout yourself.
Red flags/warning signs for suicide
• Talking about suicide, making statements such as, “I am tired”; “I do not want to live any more”; or “I wish I was never born”
• Preparing the means to take one’s own life, such as purchasing a gun or buying/stockpiling pills
• Being inquisitive about suicide methods
• Being isolated from support and social activities
• Preoccupation with death, violence and dying
• Extreme mood swings
• Feeling hopeless and helpless
• Increased use of alcohol and/or drugs
• Changes to one’s normal routine, including eating and sleeping habits
• Compromised productivity and concentration at work
• Indulging in high-risk or self-destructive activities
• Giving away prized possessions or saying things like, “When I am not here any more, you must have …”
• Saying goodbye to people or sending messages relaying feelings in such a way to suggest they will never see you again
• Urgency to write a will
• Lack of self-care and personal appearance, including personal hygiene
What is suicide? Debunking the myths
Suicide is not a wish to die; rather, it is the desperate need to make emotional pain go away.
Several myths exist about suicide. One is to dismiss it by saying the person is “only joking”. Nobody has ever joked about taking their own life, so take it seriously and get support for them.
The sad thing is that the person in the practice who makes the most jokes usually carries the biggest pain. Be aware that sometimes we must ask serious questions such as, “How are you really doing?”
Another myth is that if a person has attempted suicide in the past, it was only attention-seeking behaviour. Such a person is at risk of doing it again.
Suicide is never impulsive; it is always planned. There may be a trigger event that escalates or brings the planned date forward, but it has always been carefully thought through.
The suicide of a colleague, friend or family member is probably one of the most devastating losses and bereavement processes one can face. In general grieving, feeling guilty forms part of the process, but in suicides, the guilt is intensified as one feels that it could have been prevented: “If only they had said something” or “If only I had done something.”
Image by Jack Sparrow/Pexels
• So many times we hear, “He/she was so happy … they were okay; they even made holiday plans.” Unfortunately, this is one of the major red flags of suicide. Once a person has a plan, date and method, they become optimistic and feel as if their problems have been solved.
• Suicide ideation also depletes a person’s decision-making and problem-solving ability – they are not able to see beyond the pain that is overwhelming them. They will communicate future plans, but in their minds they have a cognitive dissonance that nobody cares and that they will not be missed.
• Additional risk factors are a family history of suicide, a family history or own history of mental illness, being homosexual/bisexual or transgender in an unsupportive environment, and having a chronic or terminal illness – especially if there is a lot of pain involved.
• In this challenging world with its many external stressors and socio-economic, political and environmental challenges, we have little time for colleagues and friends. We do not even have time for self-care. This is a plea to each person reading this article: make your own mental health a priority – and be aware of those around you and make sure that they are okay.
– Jessy and Bryan Matteo ” “
Even the smallest act of caring for another person is like a drop of water – it will make ripples throughout the entire pond.
Announcement of the World Rabies Day theme for 2024!
Please circle 28 September 2024 on your calendar because this date marks World Rabies Day, a global initiative to raise awareness and enhance efforts to eliminate rabies.
This year’s theme is “Breaking Rabies Boundaries”, which highlights the need to transcend limitations that are hindering our fight against this deadly disease.
In many parts of the world, including South Africa, rabies still causes suffering and claims both human and animal lives. Stakeholders worldwide encounter various hurdles that impede tangible progress in fighting the disease, including siloed approaches, gaps in cooperation and a lack of access to essential resources.
World Rabies Day serves as a focal point for uniting all stakeholders. From mass vaccination campaigns to educational events and policy advocacy, every effort counts.
The SAVC; South African Veterinary Association; Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; National Department of Health; and other South African stakeholders are in the process of developing key messages and awareness material that can be used as part of the September 2024 World Rabies Day campaign. The SAVC will share information packs with registrees once they have been developed and finalised for use.
Individuals and organisations are invited to participate and make a difference this World Rabies Day – because when we unite, we can achieve the extraordinary. For more information, click here
Image by Tima Miroshnichenko/Pexels)
How to register on and log into the Registree Portal
Register on the Registree Portal
Once you have been registered as an SAVC registree, you can register your account on the Registree Portal.
Visit the SAVC Registree Portal, select “Register” (top right) and provide your ID/passport number, and it will take you to the Register menu.
Provide your SAVC registration number and your ID/ passport number, and choose a username (try to use a complex username as many people share the same first names) and unique password (using upper- and lower-case letters, numerals and symbols).
Then select the option to receive your OTP via SMS or email. Ensure that the administration team has your correct contact details.
Log into the Registree Portal
Then select “Login” and use the same username and password you used when you created your account. If ever you cannot remember your password, or blocked your account due to too many password failures, request a password change by going to “Change/Forgot Password”, type your username, leave the password field blank and select the option for receiving your OTP.
If you cannot remember either your username or your password, get assistance by sending an email to the SAVC staff member responsible for your profession: https://savc.org.za/contact-us/
Kennel assistant Vincent Ndlovu gives a patient some love and exercise. Image courtesy of Midlands Veterinary Hospital
163 vultures take a road trip to a new home to secure their future
VulPro, a non-profit centre providing veterinary treatment and rehabilitation for injured vultures across South Africa, recently completed what may be the largest-ever translocation of vultures in history. This ambitious operation was aimed at boosting the numbers of these critically endangered birds.
The 163 vultures, a mix of white-backed and Cape vultures, travelled 1 050km by road from their previous home near Hartbeespoort Dam in North West to a different facility at Shamwari Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape.
Vultures face numerous threats including poisoning, injuries from power lines and toxic non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs, which have dealt a major blow to vulture populations. In Africa, vultures are also targeted for belief-based purposes, and fall victim to human-wildlife conflict and sentinel poisoning.
The translocation required more than 50 people to ensure the vultures arrived safe and sound, despite some concerns about the hot weather. To counter this issue, the trucks’ soft sides were partially unclipped for ventilation and the trip was mainly undertaken at night.
DHL and the Aspinall Foundation supported the translocation to Shamwari, ensuring that all the birds arrived safely. They have adapted well to their new environment, with some already showing breeding activity.
Source: A vulture road trip to save them from extinction
Images courtesy of VulPro/Shamwari
Two Oceans Aquarium to build Africa’s largest Turtle Conservation Centre
The Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town has announced plans for a new Turtle Conservation Centre, with construction set to begin in 2026. This initiative is the first of its scale on the African continent and is also a key part of the V&A Waterfront’s Granger Bay precinct improvement project, which is aimed at advancing turtle conservation efforts.
The new facility is expected to integrate turtle education, research, veterinary science and tourism under one roof.
The aquarium has a proven track record of success in turtle conservation. Over the past 20 years, it has released more than 1 000 rehabilitated turtles back into the ocean. Among the success stories are the remarkable recoveries of Bob (a green turtle) and Novombu (a loggerhead turtle), both of whom were rehabilitated after overcoming overwhelming odds.
The Turtle Conservation Centre won't just be a place to showcase various turtle species – it will also educate the public about marine ecosystems, promote conservation awareness and become a hub for assisting sea turtle rescue efforts beyond South Africa.
Ann Lamont, the executive chairperson of the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, pointed out that much of the aquarium’s turtle conservation work is happening out of the public eye – and this new centre is going to change that.
Source: A boost for turtle conservation
Image courtesy of Two Oceans Aquarium
Profession days and days to celebrate in 2024
Profession
Laboratory Animal Technologist Day
Veterinary Technologist Day
World Veterinary Day
Animal Health Technician Day
World Rabies Day
World Animal Welfare Day
Veterinary Nurse Day
World One Health Day
Date
Thursday, 1 February 2024 (annually on 1 February)
Tuesday, 23 April 2024 (annually on 23 April)
Saturday, 27 April 2024 (last Saturday of April)
Sunday, 15 September 2024 (annually on 15 September)
Saturday, 28 September 2024 (annually on 28 September)
Friday, 4 October 2024 (annually on 4 October)
Friday, 11 October 2024 (second Friday of October)
Sunday, 3 November 2024 (annually on 3 November)
Veterinary Physiotherapist Day Monday, 4 November 2024 (annually 4 November)
World Antimicrobial Awareness week 18-24 November 2024 (annually 18-24 November)
The lion’s share: celebrating our professionals
Celebrating Veterinary Technologist Day
Every year on 23 April, the SAVC recognises and celebrates our country’s veterinary technologists for their essential contributions to animal health and well-being.
To honour this occasion, we produced a video demonstrating a snapshot of the crucial work performed by our veterinary technologists. Click here to view “A day in the life of a veterinary technologist”: Veterinary Technologist Day
We are proud to acknowledge the remarkable efforts of our veterinary technologists! Let’s continue advocating for the essential work they do, in laboratories, in practices and out in the field.
A veterinary technologist prepares samples for testing in a laboratory.
Honouring our vets as essential health workers on World Veterinary Day
On 27 April 2024, we celebrated World Veterinary Day under the very topical theme, “Veterinarians are essential health workers”.
What makes veterinary medicine such an integral public service? It’s simple: these highly trained medical professionals play a vital role in ensuring One Health – the ecosystem whereby human, animal and environmental health are closely interlinked.
We saw how, during Covid-19, veterinary medicine was deemed an essential service. This was not only so that our animals and pets had access to life-saving medical care, but also because vets are instrumental in ensuring food safety and security.
Even during non-pandemic times, our vets continue to pull out all the stops to deliver this essential service that keeps our animals and our food supply chain healthy. We know this is a high-pressure profession, which is why maintaining a healthy work-life balance is so important (please see our wellness article elsewhere in this edition).
Thank you to our amazing vets – you are our unsung heroes!
A veterinary technologist prepares samples for testing in a laboratory.
The “How do I … know what is expected of me as a new graduate and how do I deal with difficult clients?” webinar took place on 25 June 2024, 584 people registered to watch the live webinar/watch the replay of the webinar. 167 people attended webinar.
The webinar discussion points were:
• What is expected of you as a new graduate/employee
• How to handle disputes with supervisors
• How to deal with difficult customers
This webinar would have benefited final-year students, compulsory community service vets, new veterinary and para-veterinary employees, and members of all the professions – but all is not lost!
If you were unable to attend, you can watch the replay, along with other previous webinars, at https://savclive. co.za/
Please follow our social media pages to keep up to date with news and developments in South Africa’s veterinary and para-veterinary professions, as well as the job vacancies received by the SAVC for advertising purposes. We’d love to interact with you!
Thank you for responding to our survey in record numbers!
Thank you for taking the time to submit your responses to our annual survey. A record 708 registrees took part, compared with 509 the previous year – a phenomenal increase!
The information we gather through our registree surveys is very important, as it enables us to understand how to address your concerns and improve the service we provide.
However, looking at some of the feedback, we would like to take this opportunity to clarify the role/mandate of the SAVC:
• We realise there is a need for more jobs in the veterinary and para-veterinary professions, and we wish we could help with placing more adverts on our website and advertising a wider variety of positions, but we can only publish what we receive on behalf of the practices and facilities that submit vacancies
• We are not allowed to prescribe salaries/fees or provide guidelines for salaries. We also cannot influence the salaries prevailing in the market
• We also only advertise/publish the lists of CPD opportunities that CPD service providers apply for accreditation for. We do not present CPD events ourselves due to a potential conflict of interest and cannot publish more events than we receive for accreditation
We hope this information clarifies the SAVC’s role. As in the past, we will prepare a full report on the survey and present it to the Exco so that they can address your issues. We will also consider your recommendations when compiling articles and considering topics for webinars.
In memoriam
We mourn the passing of the recently departed SAVC registree, and wish their loved ones and colleagues comfort during their time of loss:
Friedrich-Wilhelm Carl Arthur Zollne
Thank you for serving your profession with such dedication and commitment.
Image by Rachel Claire/Pexels
Our ducks in a row ...
Contact us
Need to get in touch? Please consult the infographic below to find the correct person at the SAVC to contact for your specific query.
Struggling with stress and anxiety? Help is at hand
Stress, depression and burnout affect our veterinary and para-veterinary professionals at the best of times, but the added pressures of inflation, the skyrocketing cost of living and an unsteady economy have made an already bad situation even worse for many of us.
An article published in the Frontiers in Veterinary Science journal in 2022 estimates that burnout among veterinarians costs the United States veterinary industry between $1-billion and $2-billion every year in lost revenue.
The World Health Organization defines burnout as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. We know that stress and burnout often have a serious impact on our registrees’ mental health, and we’re here to offer whatever support we can.
If you are experiencing any form of mental health distress, please contact one of the members of the SAVC’s Wellness Committee for confidential assistance.
We are here to listen to you and help wherever we can – this includes all members of the veterinary and para-veterinary professions, as well as students and staff at training institutions.
To replay our wellness webinar, How do I … thrive instead of just surviving?, click here: https://savclive.co.za/how-do-i-webinars-2022/
We will be sharing information about our wellness programme, wellness-related webinars and surveys soon. In the meantime, please refer to our website: https://savc.org.za/stress-information//
You can also contact:
• The South African Depression and Anxiety Group
• The SAVA Stress Management Hotline
Mission
The SAVC protects the interests of those dependent on animals by:
Safeguarding
Disclaimer
The South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) shall not be liable for any loss due to advertisements published in its newsletters. The advertisements represent the products of the advertisers only. The SAVC does not accept liability for the information or advice contained in the advertisements or for any loss arising from the use of the products advertised. By placing the advertisements, the SAVC in no way endorses the product or content of the advertisement.
www.savc.org.za
26 Victoria Link Street, Route 21 Corporate Park, Nellmapius Drive, Irene, Gauteng, South Africa Tel: 0027 (0)12 345 6360 Fax: 0027 (0)12 345 6369
