World Veterinary Day | Reaching HERD’s Community by Preventing Rabies 

At HERD, we’ve always believed that caring for wildlife and caring for people go hand in hand. To celebrate World Veterinary Day in April 2026, HERD led a community outreach in the greater Hoedspruit area, along with students from Vetbooks to bring essential veterinary care to over 70 dogs, and make a meaningful difference where it was needed most. 

World Veterinary Day highlights the life‑saving role veterinarians play in stopping deadly diseases like rabies before they spread. Through vaccination, education, and rapid response, vets protect both animals and people, breaking the cycle of transmission and saving lives.  

As rabies remains fatal but preventable, this day reminds us that strong veterinary care is essential for healthy communities and a safer world. 

Thanks to a generous sponsorship by MSD South Africa, we were able to partner with the students from Vetbooks to provide critical support to the local communities around HERD. 

The group of eight students from Vetbooks joined the Animal Education for Communities (ALECS) for an outreach day that provided access to critical veterinary services to underserved communities. By bringing these services directly into the community, we were able to meet people where they are and support them in caring for their animals. 

Each dog received a full health check, core vaccinations, dipping and deworming, and screening for Transmissible Venereal Tumour (TVT). These are simple but powerful interventions, which will help to prevent disease, improve quality of life, and support responsible pet ownership. 

But what stayed with us most wasn’t just the number of animals treated. It was the sense of connection. Moments between owners and their pets, conversations shared, and a shared commitment to doing better for the animals that are such an important part of people’s lives. 

We were also reminded that animal care doesn’t stop at medical treatment. Thanks to the generous support of Pet Food City (Daspoort – Pretoria) and Montego Pet Nutrition, every dog went home not only healthier, but with food to keep them nourished. It’s a small gesture with a big impact, and a reflection of what holistic care really looks like. 

Being part of this outreach was both humbling and inspiring for HERD. It reaffirmed something we see time and time again: when communities are supported, conservation becomes stronger, more inclusive, and more sustainable. 

A heartfelt thank you to MSD South Africa for sponsoring the vaccines, as well as the ALECS team for their dedication and expertise, and helped make the day possible. This is what meaningful impact looks like, and we’re grateful to be part of it.