Local vets speak about baboon saga

The veterinarians of the Standerton Animal Hospital, Syrmia Vet Animal Hospital, Secunda Animal Hospital, Eendedam Animal Clinic and Evander Animal Clinic decided to comment on the recent shooting of a baboon in Secunda.

We are encouraged by the care shown by so many people. We are also saddened by the outcome.

We had a discussion with a conservationist from Namibia who is well-known in rehabilitation and relocation of baboons. She is also known for interacting with baboons.

She explained that in the case of a female baboon, it would have been feasible to dart the animal and attempt to relocate her into a troop. In such a case, specialised anaesthetic drugs would be needed, as well as a competent darter.

However, in this case it was a male baboon. An autopsy was performed on the baboon by a locum veterinarian on Thursday, 5 April. Citrus fruit was found in the stomach and he was emaciated.

One theory is that he might have hitched a ride on a lorry from the Lowveld.

According to our expert, the fact that he was alone, is an indication that he was probably expelled from a troop. Sometimes they are accepted into a “bachelor” troop, but once they are expelled from there, they have nowhere to go.

We as veterinarians work in close association with the local SPCA and acknowledge their hard work and dedication.

All animals in our community can best be served if all our animal enthusiasts, of whom we have many, meet each other in the middle. Everyone involved in animal welfare is acknowledged and appreciated.

We as vets want to convey our appreciation for our community involvement in animal welfare. May we even do better in future.

Local vets.

Also read letters from Louis Kempen and a Secunda Citizen here:

Little Paws Big Hearts slams SPCA

Inspekteur het gedoen wat sy moes doen