South African Veterinary Association

South African Veterinary Association The SAVA is a professional association of veterinarians in South Africa. It promotes the interests an

May is Mental Health Awareness Month 💚Veterinary professionals dedicate their lives to caring for animals—but it’s just ...
04/05/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month 💚

Veterinary professionals dedicate their lives to caring for animals—but it’s just as important to care for yourselves. The emotional demands of the profession, long hours, and difficult decisions can take a toll on mental wellbeing.

This month, we encourage our veterinary community to prioritise self-care, seek support when needed, and look out for colleagues. Checking in, sharing experiences, and creating safe spaces for conversation can make a real difference.

🐾 World Veterinary Day 2026!Amid ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease outbreaks, the South African Veterinary Association high...
25/04/2026

🐾 World Veterinary Day 2026!

Amid ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease outbreaks, the South African Veterinary Association highlights the critical role veterinarians play in protecting South Africa’s food security, public health, and agricultural stability.

Aligned with the World Veterinary Association theme, “Veterinarians: Guardians of Food and Health,” SAVA emphasises that vets are central to disease control, livestock health, and safe food systems—not just pet care.

From outbreak response to safeguarding trade and farmer livelihoods, veterinarians are on the frontline of national resilience.

Proudly sponsored by VTech Veterinary Pharmacies

Festive Safety Tips for Pet Owners The holidays are here - but festive foods, fireworks and travel can pose risks to pet...
29/12/2025

Festive Safety Tips for Pet Owners

The holidays are here - but festive foods, fireworks and travel can pose risks to pets.

👉 Keep toxic foods out of reach
👉 Microchip and secure pets before travelling
👉 Create calm spaces during fireworks
👉 Avoid giving leftovers (especially Christmas bones!)

A little awareness goes a long way in keeping tails wagging this festive season.

Strengthening the profession starts with strengthening the people in it. The SAVA Resiliency Pilot shows encouraging mid...
23/12/2025

Strengthening the profession starts with strengthening the people in it.

The SAVA Resiliency Pilot shows encouraging mid-point results - supporting vets in managing stress, improving communication, and building healthier professional relationships.

Read more in the December issue of Vetnews!

This month’s theme in VetNews: Small Animal Practice 🐾 From AMR insights to clinical learnings, mobile app innovations a...
22/12/2025

This month’s theme in VetNews: Small Animal Practice 🐾

From AMR insights to clinical learnings, mobile app innovations and resilience-building in the profession - this edition highlights the critical work done by companion-animal practitioners across South Africa.

Read more about it in Vetnews December!

What To Do If Bitten by a Seal If you or your pet is bitten, scratched or licked by a seal: 1. Wash the wound with soap ...
19/12/2025

What To Do If Bitten by a Seal

If you or your pet is bitten, scratched or licked by a seal:

1. Wash the wound with soap + water for 10–15 minutes

2. Seek urgent medical care or contact your local state veterinarian

3. Inform medical staff that the injury is from a potentially rabid seal

4. Ensure dogs and cats are up to date on rabies vaccination

Your quick action can save a life.

Rabies in Cape Fur Seals (Holiday Safety Alert) ⚠️ Holiday season reminder: The South African Veterinary Association urg...
17/12/2025

Rabies in Cape Fur Seals (Holiday Safety Alert)

⚠️ Holiday season reminder: The South African Veterinary Association urges the public not to approach or interact with Cape fur seals this festive season. Recent cases confirm rabies in seal populations, posing serious risk to humans and pets.

Avoid touching seals (alive or dead), keep dogs leashed near beaches, and exit the water immediately if a seal is spotted.

If bitten or scratched, wash the wound for 15 minutes and seek urgent medical care.

Let’s keep our coastlines safe for people, pets and wildlife.

Being a SAVA member means belonging to a community that champions veterinary excellence, advocacy and wellbeing. Your me...
15/12/2025

Being a SAVA member means belonging to a community that champions veterinary excellence, advocacy and wellbeing.

Your membership unlocks:

• Access to CPD-accredited VetNews articles
• Advocacy and representation on national issues
• CPD events, webinars & congresses
• A 24/7 mental health support hotline
• CVC outreach opportunities

Together, we strengthen the profession - one member at a time.

The December issue of VetNews is here - spotlighting Small Animal Practice, new research, AMR insights, SAVA updates, up...
12/12/2025

The December issue of VetNews is here - spotlighting Small Animal Practice, new research, AMR insights, SAVA updates, upcoming congress dates, and an inspiring message from our President as we close off 2025.

📘 Dive into CPD articles, clinical learnings and year-end reflections from across the profession.

End of Year Safety Recap  is a deadly disease for humans and animals, but it is 100% preventable. Follow these simple st...
11/12/2025

End of Year Safety Recap

is a deadly disease for humans and animals, but it is 100% preventable. Follow these simple steps to stay safe during the festive season:

Stay Informed About Rabies
Recognise that rabies is a serious, often fatal virus that affects mammals and humans.

Observe Seal Behaviour from a Distance
Avoid close contact with seals, even if they appear calm. If you see seals behaving erratically or abnormally, contact local authorities to report the sighting. Avoid approaching the animal yourself.

Never Touch or Feed Seals, Wildlife or Stray Dogs
Refrain from touching, feeding, or attempting to help any seals, wildlife or stray dogs, especially if they appear sick or injured.

Supervise Children and Pets Closely
Ensure children understand to avoid approaching seals, wildlife and stray dogs and to admire them from afar.

Know What to Do if Bitten or Scratched
Wash the wound immediately with soap and water for at least 15 minutes then seek medical attention promptly and inform healthcare providers that the injury may involve exposure to . Early intervention is crucial.

Stay Cautious During Outdoor Festivities
Enjoy coastal activities and wildlife responsibly. Following these steps ensures a safe and memorable festive season for everyone.

This campaign is proudly sponsored by VTech Veterinary Pharmacies

Address

47 Gemsbok Avenue
Pretoria
0181

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 16:30
Tuesday 08:00 - 16:30
Wednesday 08:00 - 16:30
Thursday 08:00 - 16:30
Friday 08:00 - 15:30

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