Partnership Powers Free Rabies Vaccination Drive for Danville’s Pets

Unchain Our Children (UOC) and Community Champions continue their valued partnership, delivering practical support to vulnerable communities through coordinated outreaches, donations and awareness campaigns.

Catherine Keyworth, Arcadia CID Manager and Tsotsoletso Operations and Development Executive, has once again secured vital backing for the free rabies vaccination drive. A longstanding supporter of UOC, her consistent efforts continue to benefit the communities the organization serves.

“For me, this is simply about caring for our community and the animals that are part of it,” she said. “A rabies vaccination can make such a difference, and when people and organizations come together, we can make that kind of care accessible to those who need it most.” Catherine Keyworth

The event takes place on Saturday, 10 October 2026, at Reddingsdaad, 79 Viviers Street, Danville, Pretoria. Vaccinations are expected to begin around 14:00 or 15:00, subject to final confirmation.

Dr Roy Page of Menlyn Vet Practice, commented that the importance of rabies vaccination is personal. “Rabies prevention is deeply personal to me. I was once bitten by a rabid animal, and prompt post-exposure treatment and vaccination protected my life. Prevention is one of the most powerful tools we have, and in the case of rabies, it can quite literally save lives.”

Support for the initiative has been strengthened by an exceptional community response during Rabies Awareness Month. Menlyn Vet Practice alone received client donations covering 351 vaccination doses. Contributions through Moreletapark Animal Hospital & De Katz Hotel and Faerie Glen Animal Clinic added further support. The veterinary group has also committed to matching every donation received.

Zoetis Animal Health (www.zoetis.com), the world’s leading animal health company, has donated 50 five-in-one vaccines together with tick-and-flea treatments and de-wormers. Menlyn Vet Practice has identified Zoetis as its biggest sponsor for the initiative. Additional support has come from individual families, clients and First Property Trust (https://firstpropertytrust.co.za/).

Menlyn Vet Practice, Moreletapark Animal Hospital & De Katz Hotel and Faerie Glen Animal Clinic will provide the professional veterinary staff and services. Photographer Jacques Nellies will document the day.

Dr Elmarie van Tonder, Senior Clinician at Menlyn Vet Practice, notes that the outreach’s impact extends well beyond clinical care: “What happens on the day reaches far beyond a vaccination. It is about hope, dignity and respect — for the animals, for the people who love them, and for communities that continue to care even under extraordinarily difficult circumstances.”

The drive offers free full rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats, along with deworming, tick-and-flea treatment, basic health checks and expert education. All animals are welcome — puppies, kittens, adult pets, strays and community animals. Educational talks will cover the dangers of rabies, prevention, symptoms and treatment, giving residents the chance to engage directly with veterinary professionals.

Sr Nicolene Swart of Menlyn Vet Practice emphasizes the profession’s broader responsibility: “One simple act — responsible vaccination — can protect an animal, a family and an entire community from a devastating but preventable disease.”

Dr Corné de Bruyn of Moreletapark Animal Hospital & De Katz Hotel stresses equal access to quality care: “A vaccination drive gives us the rare opportunity to prevent harm before it happens. I’m proud that the vaccines we administer are the same quality and standard I would trust for the animals in my own home. Every animal deserves protection, dignity and respect.”

Residents are encouraged to bring their animals and join this important outreach that protects pets and builds safer, healthier communities.