Stories From Our Veterinary Team

For Dr Glen, the path began early. Growing up on a dairy farm in the Eastern Cape, the idea of becoming a veterinarian was never a question, but a certainty. That early connection to animals still carries through in his work today. Dr Shaun’s journey was driven by a different motivation. While a love for animals and nature is often the expected answer, his focus has always been on conservation and the opportunity to contribute to the protection of endangered species.

Their experiences reflect the breadth of the profession. Some moments stand out not because they are easy, but because they demand everything. Dr Glen recalls a case involving one of Cango’s Burmese pythons, where he surgically removed thirteen eggs in a procedure that lasted three hours and required complete focus from start to finish. For Dr Shaun, one of the most memorable cases involved a trafficked pangolin brought in under critical conditions. After stabilising the animal, it was transferred to a specialist facility where it made a full recovery. Being part of that process, particularly with such a rare and vulnerable species, remains a defining moment.

These are the kinds of stories that rarely reach the surface. Behind each one lies long hours, complex decision making, and a level of responsibility that extends far beyond a single procedure. Veterinary work is often seen as clinical, but in reality it is as much about people as it is about animals. Communication, collaboration, and trust are essential at every stage. As Dr Shaun notes, the ability to work with people is just as important as the ability to work with animals, a reality that often comes as a surprise.

The demands of the profession are not understated. It requires mental resilience, physical endurance, and years of rigorous study. Dr Glen is clear in his advice to those considering this path. The work is tough, the training is demanding, but the reward is worth it. Persistence is key. Dr Shaun offers a similar perspective, encouraging aspiring veterinarians to gain real world experience before committing, to understand both the rewarding and the less visible aspects of the role.

Even within the challenges, there is space for connection. Preferences for certain species often reflect deeper experiences. Dr Glen still has a strong appreciation for dairy cows, shaped by his upbringing, but also speaks of a soft spot for cheetah, animals that present complex challenges but offer rewarding moments of trust and interaction. Dr Shaun’s choice of the rhino reflects a broader conservation focus, highlighting the importance of protecting species under increasing threat.

What becomes clear is that veterinary care is not a single act, but a continuous process. It involves observing subtle changes, making informed decisions, and often managing every stage of treatment from start to finish. It is one of the few professions where a single individual may assess, diagnose, treat, and oversee recovery within the same day.

At Cango Wildlife, this work forms the foundation of animal welfare. It supports not only the health of each individual animal, but also the broader role the facility plays in education, conservation, and research. While World Veterinary Day offered a moment to acknowledge this, the appreciation extends far beyond a single date.

To Dr Glen, Dr Shaun, and the wider veterinary network that supports our work, we extend our thanks. Their dedication, knowledge, care, and support continue to shape the lives of every animal entrusted to us.