As of 1 June, animal owners living within a 25-kilometre radius of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus can look forward to more services from the institution’s animal hospital.
The Dale Bieghle Animal Health Hospital, as it is formally known, is part of the subject group Animal Health in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, and has provided an invaluable service to animal owners within the university’s operational area for many years.
“We will continue to provide primary animal health care outreach programmes to our community. Not only does this benefit our students by providing them with practical training, but it also has an impact on the reduction of diseases and other problems in our animal population,” says Prof Mulunda Mwanza, subject chair for Animal Health.
He says the animal health hospital will also continue to provide vaccinations and surgeries such as castrations, among other services. In addition, new dentistry and animal X-ray machines, as well as an animal pathology service (post-mortem service) are now available.
The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in a reduced uptake in services, but Prof Mwanza says those who visit the hospital to vaccinate their animals can still expect quick assistance while adhering to the necessary protocols. However, it is important to note that children are not allowed to access any of the university’s campuses.
The animal health hospital comprises three sections; a companion, production animal and a pathology section. The hospital is open from 08:30 until 16:30 on weekdays, but clients who need assistance after hours will be accommodated.
It is open on Saturdays from 08:00 to 12:00 but closed on Sundays. However, emergency cases will still be attended to. A fee is payable for all services rendered.
Members of the public can contact the hospital on (018) 389 2707 during office hours. When calling after hours, the number will be redirected to a staff member on call.
The NWU animal health hospital offers vaccination services to the local communities.
