Best veterinarian in Africa hails from Joburg South
Another project Dr Caryn Rademeyer is busy with includes helping students from UNISA.
Dr Caryn Rademeyer has recently been announced as the best vet in Africa for 2021 by the World Veterinary Association during its annual Global Animal Welfare Awards.
She is a veterinarian from the JSPCA and Alberton SPCA.
The CHRONICLE caught up with Rademeyer to find out more about her life and her passion for animals.
Rademeyer grew up in the South of Joburg on a horse farm.
“Like many veterinaries, I read James Herriot and I fell in love with his books and that inspired me to become a veterinary,” said Rademeyer.
After completing her schooling she attended the University of Pretoria campus at Onderstepoort where she studied to become a vet.
When asked about interesting stories from her time as a vet, she said there are two that stand out.
“One day a little girl dressed up as a princess came into the SPCA with the dog’s ears swelled and we could see the dog is in pain. We had to subdue the dog to see what was wrong. After inspecting the dog we found the little girl tried to give the dog ponytails but accidentally tied rubber bands around its ears. We cut off the bands and the dog was happy again.
“Another one was the time I was called about a horse that just disappeared. On my way to help look for the horse in the night, I came across a horse lying next to the road. I phoned the owners to ensure a happy reunion.”
Rademeyer still stays humble despite the award.
“I am just doing the job I was trained to do years ago.
“This award means a lot to me as I don’t always meet the client only the patient. This is a thank you from all the nameless people out there that I helped throughout the years,” said Rademeyer.
Rademeyer plans to continue hosting educational days for both owners and animal trainers.
Another project includes helping students from UNISA.
