Annual Report - the South African Veterinary Council

South African Veterinary Council Annual Report and Financial Statements 2010-2011 

SOUTH AFRICAN VETERINARY COUNCIL 

Annual Report for the period 

1 April 2010 – 31 March 2011 

874 Church Street 

Lisdogan Park 

Arcadia 

0083 

P O Box 40510 

Arcadia 

0007 

www.savc.org.za 

savc@savc.org.za 

Tel: 27(012) 342 1612 

Fax: 27 (012) 342 4354 

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THE SOUTH AFRICAN VETERINARY COUNCIL 

The Annual Report for the period 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011 is submitted to the Minister in terms of Section 

17 of the Veterinary and Para- Veterinary Professions Act, No 19 of 1982. 

Council 


1 April 2010 to 31 July 2010 1 August 2010 to 31 March 2011 

Dr R Moerane (President) 

Dr I Sonntag (Vice-President) 

Dr JR Adam 

Dr GAP Carlisle 

Dr ST Cornelius 

Dr AP de Vos 

Sr A Glen 

Vacant 

Dr BM Modisane 

Dr LE Moorosi 

Prof MJ Mphahlele 

Mr JJ Müller 

Dr NVH Nombekela-Madiba 

Dr DJ Odendaal 

Mr IWG Radmore 

Vacant 

Mr LLP Sinclair 

Prof GE Swan 

Dr J van Heerden 


Dr AP de Vos (Vice President) 

Dr J Adam 

Mr HJ Arendse 

Dr AM Banderker 



Ms N Kadwa 

Sr T Lőtter 

Dr CP Marwick 

Mr J J Müller 

Prof TL Nedambale 

Dr BR Ntshabele 


Mr J Oosthuizen 

Dr JA Pretorius 

Dr I Sonntag 


Dr BA Wenhold 

IN OFFICE 

Mrs H Kruger (Registrar) [until 14 January 2011] Mrs C E Pienaar (Registrar) (3 January 2011- 31 March 2011) 

Mrs L Havinga (Vice Registrar) 

Mrs S Dowlath-Singh (Director, Legal Affairs) 

AUDITORS 

C Kotzen and Associates 

Registered Accountants and Auditors 

Chartered Accountants (S.A.) 

Dr Rebone Moerane 

Mrs L Havinga 

________________________ 

President 

_____________________ 

Acting Registrar 

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

The South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) performed its core functions in terms of the Veterinary and Para- 

Veterinary Professions Act, Act 19 of 1982. The information in this report confirms how the Council exercised its 

core and other functions in line with its objects as follows: 

• regulate the practising of the veterinary professions and para-veterinary professions and the registration of 

persons practising such professions; 

• determine the minimum standards of tuition and training required for degrees, diplomas and certificates 

entitling the holders thereof to be registered to practise the veterinary professions and para-veterinary 

professions; 

• exercise effective control over the professional conduct of persons practising the veterinary professions and 

para-veterinary professions; 

• determine the standards of professional conduct of persons practising the veterinary professions and paraveterinary 

professions; 

• encourage and promote efficiency in and responsibility with regard to the practice of the veterinary 

professions and para-veterinary professions; 

• protect the interests of the veterinary professions and para-veterinary professions and to deal with any matter 

relating to such interests; 

• maintain and enhance the prestige, status and dignity of the veterinary professions and para-veterinary 

professions and the integrity of persons practising such professions; 

• advise the Minister in relation to any matter affecting a veterinary profession or a para-veterinary profession; 

The SAVC remained focused on its mission to “promote food security/safety in all sectors of the economy and 

develop and promote preventative medicine/ disease strategy at farm level including subsistence farmers” and 

reviewed and implemented policies in support thereof. Council came to the realisation that- 

• the legislation affecting the veterinary professions in their role to ensure safe food, healthy animals and 

healthy humans is not synchronized. This has a crippling effect on the work of the veterinary 

professionals which in turn has detrimental effects on the country, its people and animals; 

• state veterinary services are fragmented, in desperate need of review and serious intervention with a 

view to align it with sound governance and centralized principles as it affects the national interest; 

• capacity has to be built and veterinary training aligned to produce increased numbers of veterinary 

professionals and veterinary para-professionals in line with the government’s targets; 

• veterinary medicines have to be controlled by trained and registered veterinary professionals; 

• legislative intervention is required to investigate the illegal activities of both registered professionals and 

unregistered, unqualified persons to ensure compliance with all relevant legislation; 

• all stakeholders including a number of state departments are not working for the same good cause; and 

although legislation exists implementation and control are seriously lacking; 

• primary animal health care and the one health, one medicine principle need to be promoted to ensure 

that there is an understanding and collaboration to fight against the spread of trans frontier diseases; and 

• an understanding of the role of the veterinary professions in building, contributing to and developing the 

economy and improving the livestock industry in the country is gravely underestimated and underutilized 

by policy makers which is to the detriment of the people and animals of the country. 

These realities lead to a Council resolution that- 

• Legislation which impacts, in particular on food safety and security, treatment of animals and the use of 

medicines has to be aligned with the Act regulating the veterinary professions; 

• The only effective manner in which relevant changes can be made to the legislation, policies and control 

thereof would be at Ministerial level; and 

• The Council has to focus on securing a meeting with its Minister with a view to ensure that there will be 

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Ministerial intervention. 

However, another year has passed in which the Council has failed to secure a meeting with its Minister, the 

Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Ms T Joemat-Petterson. It therefore could not achieve its 

objective to advise the Minister on matters affecting the veterinary and para-veterinary professions, the peoples 

and animals they serve. 

The Council objectives linked to the needs of humans and animals in South Africa were inter alia addressed by 

Council as follows: - 

‣Negotiations with various stakeholders with regard to legislation impacting on the veterinary professions; 

‣Preparation of the draft legislation to finalise a framework for implementation of Compulsory Community 

Service (CCS) for the veterinary profession; 

‣Continued Professional Development (CPD) for the veterinary and veterinary para professions. A pilot 

project for the veterinary para professionals came into effect during this period; 

‣Input made to the Ministerial workgroup on veterinary education; 

‣Two groundbreaking visitations to the training institutions, University of South Africa [Unisa] and North 

West University [NWU] who offer training to prospective animal health technicians; 

‣Registration and authorisation of non registered persons to perform services of the veterinary animal 

health team with a view to address the needs in society; 

‣Review of standards for: veterinary practice; veterinary specialization; authorization, in particular also for 

veterinary-only procedures; and for community engagement activities; 

‣Review of the use of medicines by animal welfare assistants; 

‣Review of fines that may be imposed on veterinary professionals who contravene the Veterinary and 

Para Veterinary Professions Act, Act no 19 of 1982; 

‣Ongoing changes to the rules to ensure safe and responsible use of medicines and new rules pertaining 

merchandising by veterinary professionals; 

‣Liaison with the Department of Environmental Affairs regarding the requirement of a permit for the 

treatment of Threatened and Protected Species [TOPS]; 

‣Liaison and cooperation with the National Joints Committee: Operation Rhino; 

‣Declaration of Green Hunts as an illegal activity; 

‣Liaison with the National Director Public Prosecutions; 

‣Liaison with the Medicines Regulatory Authority in particular on the use of medicines by animal welfare 

assistants and lay persons who are in possession of licences / permits; 

‣Finalisation of the Compounding guidelines, including guidelines to ensure food safety; 

‣Appointment of a Council for the three-year term which commenced on 1 August 2010; 

‣Resignation of the Registrar and appointment of a new Registrar; 

‣Continued facilitation to implement an inspectorate; 

‣Promoting the veterinary and para-veterinary professions by public relation efforts amongst the students, 

scholars in particular from disadvantaged backgrounds; amongst the professions and the public in 

general; 

‣A three-year review [31 July 2007-30 July 2010] of Council activities was issued for the first time; and 

‣Promoting the World Veterinary Year 2011 and the role of the veterinary professions. 

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PRESIDENT’S OVERVIEW 

The World Veterinary Year, held in 2011, marked the 250 th world anniversary of veterinary education. The 

celebrations were launched in France on the 24 th January 2011 and a number of activities were 

undertaken worldwide including in South Africa. The main aim of the celebrations are to improve public 

awareness and remind policy makers everywhere in the world that- 

• The veterinary profession has been serving human kind for 250 years 

• Modern veterinarians are not only animal doctors and animal welfare advocates but they are also key 

public health stakeholders because of their crucial role in reducing global hunger, controlling zoonoses, 

monitoring food quality and safety, biomedical research and protecting the environment and 

biodiversity. 

A Joint Public Relations committee comprising of various stakeholders in SA was established with 

strategies developed to promote the veterinary professions in the country. We hope that through the 

identified activities, the young generation will understand the role of the veterinary professions and 

aspire to become future veterinarians and veterinary para-professionals while the public and politicians 

will give the veterinary professions the well deserved recognition 

The term of the Council ended at the end of July 2010 with the appointment of a new Council on 31 July 

2011. We have been fortunate again as the new Council reflects the various sectors and thus there is a 

holistic approach towards meeting our mandate. The new Council subsequently reviewed the various 

strategies of the Council going forward taking into consideration the mandate in terms of the Act, the 

government priorities and the input from members of the veterinary professions, various stake-holders 

and where possible input from members of the public. The Registrar, Mrs Hanri Kruger, who served the 

Council for a period of more than 17 years, resigned from the Council due to the relocation of the family 

and a new Registrar, Mrs C E Pienaar was appointed as from January 2011. Thank you to Mrs Kruger for 

dedicating her time and energy towards setting up systems within the Council and for assisting the 

professions in legal guidance and setting standards which are on par with our international partners. 

Another employee, Ms Getrude Mazibuko resigned after serving the Council for 11 years to explore 

greener pastures and we also thank her for her valuable inputs and service during her employment with 

us. 

The highlights of the year included the activities as follows: 

• Intensive discussions with the Department of Environmental Affairs regarding the negative impact of the 

regulations related to the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (TOPS - 

Threatened or Protected Species) on the activities of veterinarians. We were inundated with numerous 

concerns from our members about the impracticality of the legislation and the proposed amendments 

regarding chemical immobilization of wildlife, translocation, capturing, collecting specimens and the 

permit system for veterinarians involved in such activities. The SAVC held several meetings with 

representatives from the Department of Environmental affairs, however, to date no tangible solution was 

implemented. Unfortunately this issue will remain a bone of contention until it is successfully resolved 

between the parties. 

• Participation of the Council in the combating of Rhino poaching especially as the veterinarians are 

concerned about the health and well-being of the animals and, we had to investigate several allegation 

against members of the profession for illegally using scheduled medicines. We proactively amended 

certain rules (Rule 10) to improve on the control of such medicines and where possible assisted the 

security cluster and wildlife organisations in combating Rhino poaching in the country and within the 

continent. 

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• Assisting the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in finalising the proposals for the 

amendment of the Veterinary and Para-Veterinary Professions Act, Act No 19 of 1982 and regulations for 

the implementation of Compulsory Community Veterinary Service for graduate veterinarians. We strongly 

believe that the strategy will assist the country in the improvement of veterinary services particularly with 

regard to improving access to veterinary services in the rural areas and meeting the set priorities in the 

country. It is humbling having engaged the veterinary students, to hear how dedicated they are to 

participate in the programme and we are all eagerly awaiting the approval of the Bill by Parliament to 

assist the department in the implementation of the programme. 

• Since the qualifications for animal health technicians were accepted and prescribed for registration 

purposes and members of this profession were registered with the Council, visitations were conducted 

for the first time at both recognised institutions (North West University and UNISA). Strengths and 

weaknesses were objectively identified. I am confident that all role players will make input regarding 

corrective measures to improve the standards of training at these two institutions. 

• Participation at SADC level, continental and international level to benchmark the standards in education 

and training in the country. In addition to contribute on the development of the requirements of day one 

competencies for new graduates and to promote common standards to allow registration and practice 

worldwide. We are proud that the Dean of the Veterinary Faculty at Onderstepoort, UP, has been 

mandated by the World Organisation for Animal Health [OIE] to coordinate the activities of the Deans of 

various faculties of veterinary science within SADC member countries. The process is currently at its 

infant stages and it will take time before there is agreement internationally. We have to however ensure 

that the local and SADC requirements or demands are not disadvantaged. 

• The continuous review of various standards, codes of practice and rules, the monitoring of the standards 

of training offered in various subjects and the setting of examinations for registrations. The majority of the 

veterinarians registered with Council kept abreast of new scientific developments through various 

continuous professional development activities and only a small proportion of the registered members did 

not meet the requirements to remain registered with the Council. Similar activities will during the next 

year, be piloted within the veterinary para-professions so as to improve on the standards of services. 

In general, the year was hectic however, through the commitment and dedication of the administration, 

Councillors and the contributions of members of the veterinary professions, we managed to meet our 

targets. Thank you to all who contributed and together we can make South Africa a better place to live in. 

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Administration 

The management of the administration continued under the leadership of Mrs H Kruger (Registrar) and Mrs L 

Havinga (Vice Registrar). Mrs CE Pienaar (Registrar) was appointed from 3 January 2011. 

In-house training and skills development is ongoing as part of management responsibilities. 

Staff members ensured increased output. Staff changes took place as follows: 

• A new employee was appointed: Ms LJ Mokoka commenced employment on 17 May 2010 as junior 

registry official; 

• A resignation was tendered by Ms GM Mazibuko on 11 February 2011; and 

• A temporary staff member, Ms L Erasmus was employed from 11 February -11 March 2011. 

2. Council and its Executive 






Dr I Sonntag (Vice-President) Dr AP de Vos (Vice President) 

Dr JR Adam 

Dr J Adam 

Dr GAP Carlisle Mr HJ Arendse [appointed June 2011] 


Dr AM Banderker 

Dr AP de Vos 


Sr A Glen 


Member with legal knowledge 

vacant 

Ms N Kadwa 

Sr T Lőtter 

Dr BM Modisane 

Dr CP Marwick 

Dr LE Moorosi 

Mr J J Müller 


Prof TL Nedambale 

Mr JJ Müller 

Dr BR Ntshabele 

Dr NVH Nombekela-Madiba Dr DJ Odendaal 




Elected member vacant 

Dr JA Pretorius [resigned 17 November 2010, withdrew resignation 24 January 

2011 and was re-instated during the next period of report.] 

Mr LLP Sinclair [resigned Jan 2011] Dr I Sonntag 

Prof GE Swan 



Dr BA Wenhold 

2.2 Council Meetings 

• 1 June 2010 

• 30 July 2010 [Appointment of a new Council] 

• 26 October 2010 

• 8 February 2011 

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Apologies received: 

• 1 June 2010: No apologies. 

• 30 July 2010: Drs ST Cornelius, DJ Odendaal, I Sonntag and Mr LLP Sinclair. 

• 26 October 2010: Dr TL Nedambale, Messrs JJ Müller and LLP Sinclair. 

• 8 February 2011: Messrs JJ Müller and LLP Sinclair. 

2.3 Executive Committee 

2.3.1 Members 


Dr R Moerane, President 

Dr R Moerane, President 

Dr Q Sonntag, Vice President Dr AP De Vos, Vice President 

Dr S T Cornelius, Member 

Dr C P Marwick, Member 

2.3.2 Meetings of the Executive Committee 

Represented by the full committee and/or the President, Vice President, Registrar, Councillors 

• 23 April 2010: Animal Welfare Organisations (AWO) 

• 2 June 2010: South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) 

• 2 June 2010: South African Equine Veterinary Association a Group of the SAVA AND National Horse 

Racing Authority [NHRA] 

• 25 October 2010: Wildlife Group of the SAVA 

• 23-26 November 2010: OIE Seminar, Johannesburg 

• 7-9 December 2010: OIE Conference on Veterinary Legislation, Tunisia 

• 11 January 2011: Medicines Regulatory Authority 

• 13 January 2011: National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) 

• 27 January 2011: National Joint Meeting/Conference: Operation Rhino 

COMMITTEES 

3. Continued Professional Development (CPD): CPD Accreditation Committee 

3.1 Members 

Dr J van Heerden (Chairperson) 

Prof R Kirberger 

Compliance with the requirements of CPD for the veterinary profession was audited as follows: 

• 2006-2009: 2318 veterinarians had to comply with CPD requirements for this cycle. 

47 veterinarians did not comply. Disciplinary action will be instituted based on the non-compliance with 

the regulations relating to CPD. The next audit for this group will be reported to Council in 2013 as the 

next cycle [2009-2012] for this group ends in 2012; 


5 veterinarians did not comply. These veterinarians have been given a further opportunity to ensure 

compliance and/or apply for deferment by no later than the end of 2011. Those who thereafter do not 

comply will have disciplinary action instituted against them by the Council. The next audit for this group 

will be reported to Council in 2014 as the next cycle [2010-2013] for this group ends in 2013; and 

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58 veterinarians did not comply. These 58 registered veterinarians will be given a further opportunity to 

log their CPD points and/or apply for deferment to ensure compliance with CPD. Those who thereafter 

do not comply will have disciplinary action instituted against them by the Council. The next audit for this 

group will be reported to Council in 2015 as the next cycle [2011-2014] for this group ends in 2014. 

Council continued to explain its policy and clarified many aspects of compliance with the requirements for the 

veterinary profession. The committee under the leadership of Dr J van Heerden with Prof R Kirberger as 

member continued to evaluate various CPD activities for accreditation. The Committee continued to liaise 

electronically. 

A total number of 148 applications for the accreditation of courses were considered during this period with 

ultimately 138 [116 in the previous year] being accredited. The processing and streamlining of applications 

resulted in a total of 618 activities [as at 31 March 2011] being accredited since its inception on 8 December 

2004, the date on which the first activity was accredited for the pilot CPD activities. Members of the profession 

updated their knowledge on the latest scientific information and new practice related developments. 

In an attempt by Council to inform veterinarians on courses already accredited, a list of accredited courses is 

continuously updated on the Council’s website and members of the profession are informed accordingly. 

Members are required to log the CPD points accumulated by them by the end of the relevant three year cycle. 

The new policy guideline for para-veterinary professionals was finalised by Council in October 2009 along similar 

guidelines as for the veterinary profession and implementation thereof will only commence after the completion of 

a pilot project which had commenced in August 2010. 

4. Education Committee 

4.1 Members of Committee 

01 April 2010- 31 July 2010 1 Augustus 2010-31 March 2011 

Dr AP de Vos (Chairperson) 

Dr AP de Vos (Chairperson) 

Dr R Larson co-opted in the vacancy Mr HJ Arendse 

[private practice] 

Dr KE Joubert 

Sr A Glen 

Sr T Lőtter 

Mr JJ Müller 

Mr JJ Müller 




Mr LLP Sinclair 

Prof CM Veary [Examination Officer 

attended the May & July meetings] 

Prof GE Swan 

Co-opted members 



Dr I Sonntag 

Prof GE Swan 

Dr D Holm [Examination Officer] 

Dr A Bartkowiak Higgo 

Ms C Boshoff 

Prof B Dzoma 

Dr A Bartkowiak Higgo 

Ms C Boshoff 

Prof B Dzoma 

4.2 Meetings 

• 10 May 2010 

• 21 July 2010 

• 24 January 2011 

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• 10 May 2010 - Prof B Dzoma [North West University (NWU)] 

• 21 July 2010 - Prof GE Swan 

• 24 January 2011 - Dr NVH Nombekela-Madiba and Prof GE Swan 

The Education Committee made recommendations on issues relating to standards of training, entrance 

requirements, curriculum developments and examinations. Developments and recommendations took place as 

follows: 

‣The year 2010 will be marked by the two major visitations conducted at the College of Agriculture and 

Environmental Sciences [CAES], Unisa and the Faculty of Agriculture, Science and Technology [FAST], 

NWU in July and August 2010 respectively under leadership of Prof CM Veary. The final meetings with 

the Deans took place in January and March 2011 and agreement was reached on the process of 

completion of the Visitation reports and institution comments. The reports were not submitted in this 

period but it was foreseen to be considered by the Education Committee at its May and July 2011 

meetings; 

‣The Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Science, UP, Prof G Swan attended the visitation of the 

International Accreditors Working Group [IAWG] at the Murdoch University, Australia in 2009 as 

observer. The report following this visitation only became available during the period of report. A 

recommendation was made to accept the qualification for automatic registration purposes should the 

School be accredited and agreements had to be entered into in this regard; 

‣As in the past the annual assessment took place of all prescribed qualifications and recommendations 

made for continued acceptance of those qualifications for automatic registration. Deficiencies in 

particular relating to animal health technician training received in depth scrutiny; 

‣The committee commenced with the review of the monitoring guidelines during this period but did not 

finalise it in this period; 

‣The outcome of the 2009 monitoring of standards of training, including the monitors’ reports, institution 

comments and Council decisions, on subjects offered in all prescribed qualifications had been submitted 

to the Council on Higher Education (CHE); 

‣A second Competence Specific Registration [CSR] examination was held to ensure that CSR candidates 

are familiar with the laws of the country. CSR addresses the need for particular expertise in a particular 

field which cannot be filled by a veterinarian or veterinary para professional registered with the SAVC; 

‣A computer examination [converted from a written examination] was introduced in the preceding period 

for veterinarians and in this period a computer examination was offered to the veterinary nurses who 

qualified abroad and was implemented with success. The successes of these examinations lead to the 

decision to implement these examinations for the animal health technicians in September 2011; 

‣The Examination rules were reviewed, refined and amended for 2011; 

‣Following recommendations of the 2006 visitation to the Faculty of Veterinary Science, UP changes had 

been made and the Education Committee received the reports on how deficiencies are addressed as 

well as the curriculum changes from a 7-year BVSc programme to a 6-year BVSc programme. The 

emphasis is placed on day one skills and the new 6 year programme was implemented in this period; 

and 

‣The Rector of the University of Pretoria, Prof C de la Rey was informed of Council’s intention to visit the 

Faculty of Veterinary Science, UP in 2013 and cooperation in this regard was confirmed. 

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4.3 Examination panels 2010 

A) Animal Health Examinations 2010 

Prof CM Veary (Examination Officer) 

Written Examinations: Onderstepoort 

Dr P Koen – Moderator 

Dr BH Mlilo – Examiner; 

Dr A Bartkowiak-Higgo- Examiner 

Oral/practical Examination: 

Mr J Oosthuizen - Moderator 

Dr L Cele-Examiner 

Mr P Lourens- Examiner 

B) Veterinary Examinations 2010 

Prof C M Veary (Examination Officer) 

Computer based examination 

Session I 

Moderator- Prof M Williams 

Moderator-Prof GL Coetzee 

Session II 

Moderator- Prof K Pettey 

Practical examination 

Moderator: Dr H Annandale 

Examiners: 

Dr M Peck 

Dr M Meyer 

Dr M Saulez 

Dr TG Casey 

Dr E du Preez 


Dr H Nel 

Dr J Williams 

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C) Veterinary Nursing Examinations 2010 

Prof CM Veary (Exam Officer) 

Computer based examination 

Session I 

Sr AE Botha [Moderator] 

Prof V Naidoo 

Sr HC Geldenhuys 

Dr EV Schwan 

Dr D Morar 

Prof F Reyers 

Prof J Soley 

Sr AE Botha 

Dr Q Sonntag 

Session II 


Dr M Nel 

Dr AM Kitshoff 

Sr R Fourie 

Ms C Makanjee 

Prof F Stegmann 

Dr D Steckler 

Practical examination 


Sr R Fourie 

Dr AM Kitshoff 

Dr M Nel 

Ms C Makanjee 

Prof F Stegmann 

Dr D Steckler 

4.4 Outcome of Full and other Registration Examinations 2010 

• Out of a total of 32 veterinarians that sat the examinations, 12 passed (37.5 %) (60 % in 2009), 

2 failed overall 6.25%, 11 failed to achieve entry into the practical /oral examination (34.37%). 

• Out of 7 veterinary nurses that sat the examinations, 4 passed (57%) 3 failed overall. 

• Out of 4 animal health technicians that sat the examinations, 2 passed (50 %) 1 failed and 1 

was absent. 

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4.5 Visitation Team Members 2010 

Unisa 

Professor CM Veary [Team Leader] 

Dr PS Kegakilwe 

Mr GJP Kriel 

Mr S Manoto 


Dr RS Verster 

Mr D Visser 

Ms K Williams [External /International Member] 

NWU 

Professor CM Veary [Team Leader] 

Dr AJ Bartkowiak-Higgo 

Dr PS Kegakilwe 

Mr GJP Kriel 

Mr S Manoto 


Mr D Visser 

Ms K Williams [External /International Member] 

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5. Committee on Fees 

5.1 Members of Committee 

01 April 2010-31 July 2010 1 August 2010- 31 March 2011 

Dr JR Adam (Chairperson) 

Dr JR Adam (Chairperson) 


Ms N Kadwa 


Dr IG Southern 

Dr TL Nedambale 

Dr IG Southern 

5.2 Meetings 

• 10 May 2010 

• 12 October 2010 


• 10 May 2010- Dr IG Southern 

• 12 October 2010- Dr TL Nedambale 

Council has since the inception of the Guideline of Tariffs regarded the guideline as a means to investigate 

complaints relating overcharging lodged by clients or touting by colleagues. Council does not intend to inhibit 

price competition between veterinary professionals but uses the guideline as a means to indicate Council’s 

opinion on the reasonableness of a fee charged. Registered Veterinarians are reminded annually by the 

Committee that fee setting is not permitted due to regulations set by the Competition Commission. 

Individual practices subsidise animal welfare organisations. Most practices discount fees for pensioners, disabled 

and indigent persons and many community veterinary engagement activities e.g. community veterinary clinics, 

sterilisation campaigns and primary animal health care [PAHC] often take place without payment and/or with 

discounted fees for these services. 

The Committee received inputs on the amendment of the fees for 2011 and considered those inputs in compiling 

the 2011 guideline. The services rendered by lay persons remains an obstacle for survival of the rural 

veterinarian in rural areas. A further threat to the existence of private practice is the perceived increased use of 

animal welfare services by persons who are not indigent persons and the lack of control by animal welfare 

organisations of the abuse of animal welfare veterinary services. 

6. Investigation Committee 

6.1 Members 

01 April 2010 – 31 March 2011 

Dr GAP Carlisle-(Chairperson) 

Dr R Mulder 

Dr JI Rajput (until 31 July 2010/ (Dr MC Lewis in the 

place of Dr Rajput for the period May-July 2009) 

Dr MP Verseput 

Dr BM Modisane (as from 1 August 2010) 

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6.2 Meetings 

• 22 July 2010 

• 7 October 2010 

• 27 January 2011 


22 July 2010- Dr J I Rajput 

Telephonic enquiries relating to complaints are dealt with on a daily basis by the Administration and as in the past 

prospective complainants are advised on what the complaints procedure entails. The information on how to 

submit a complaint is available on the website and on request by email, surface mail or facsimile. Members of 

the public have access to a separate area where they can find specific guidelines on how to submit a complaint 

and/or an account for assessment. Complainants are encouraged to first discuss the matter that has initiated 

their concerns with the member concerned, with a view to resolving the matter. 

Only 40 formal complaints had been received and 8 accounts had been assessed by the committee. All 8 of the 

accounts were found to be in order by the committee. 

• The total number of formal complaints for this period: 40 

‣2 complaints were finalised administratively as complainants did not submit supporting affidavits 

‣37 complaints were submitted to the Investigation Committee for consideration 

‣1 complainant withdrew the complaint before submission of the case to the Investigation Committee 

• The committee dealt with the 40 complaints [including complaints carried over from the previous period] 

as follows: 

‣7 finalised finding no unprofessional conduct 

‣1 matter was mediated 

‣1 matter issuing directives to improve professional conduct 

‣7 matters referred to formal inquiries 

‣34 matters required further information and should be finalised in the next reporting period. 

• The 7 matters referred to Inquiry Bodies for formal hearings should be finalised in the next period. 

7. Registration & Authorisation Committee 

7.1 Members 

1 April 2010 – 31 July 2010 1 August 2010 – 31 March 2011 

Dr LE Moorosi (Chairperson) Dr B Wenhold (Chairperson) 

Dr I Sonntag 

Dr A Banderker 

Sr A Glen 

Sr T Lőtter 



7.2 Meetings held 

• 3 May 2010 

• 11 October 2010 

• 25 January 2011 

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There were no apologies. 

The Registration and Authorisation Committee dealt with the following matters in addition to applications for 

authorisation and registration: 

• veterinarians involved in animal welfare- the guidelines had been reviewed and in particular veterinary 

supervision was defined; 

• authorisation of animal welfare assistants- the guideline documents, especially those concerning the 

use of medicines and assessment criteria, were reviewed; 

• animal welfare assistants- the scope and rules for this prospective veterinary para profession were 

developed, however the scope of practice could not be finalized in this period of report; 

• veterinary clinical facilities, sterilization campaigns-facilities from which veterinary clinical services 

are rendered are required to register with Council and where the standards for these facilities cannot be 

met application for exemption is made based on the need. As sterilization campaigns are undertaken in 

areas where there are usually no registered facilities and/or a lack of services exists an increased 

number of applications was received for exemption from the minimum standards. The guidelines for 

sterilization campaigns and community engagement had been reviewed and finalized; 

• supervision and assessment - a guideline was drafted and was still being developed to make it a 

requirement that the supervisor of an authorized person had to report to Council on the activities of 

authorised persons; 

• advertisements- the policy relating to the publication of an advertisement for the services of a suitably 

registered veterinary and/or veterinary para professional were drafted, finalised, approved by Council 

(May 2010); 

• guidelines for authorisation: wildlife immobilisations - the guidelines concerning the inclusion of 

chemical immobilisation, anaesthesia, tranquilisation and sedation of wildlife as part of the extension of 

conditions for registration of animal health technicians and for authorisation for non veterinarians were 

reviewed, but could not be finalized in the period of report; 

• authorisation section 23 (1) (c) the guidelines concerning the authorisation of persons in key-point 

positions were amended to include a requirement that applicants had to pass the veterinary 

jurisprudence and ethics component of the Council’s registration examination; and 

• authorisation of post-graduate students - MMedVet students who are not registered as veterinarians / 

specialists that are enrolled for a MMedVet degree and work in the veterinary profession (e.g. teaching, 

research or rendering clinical services) must be authorised to render services and in addition be 

registered as students with the Council. 

SAVC Registration Examination Foreign Registered members 

Council invited registered members who passed the SAVC’s registration examination to take an oath similar to 

the one currently taken by BVSc graduates. The second such invitation was implemented on 26 November 

2010. 

7.3 Registrations, Removals, Renewals and Authorisations 

A total of 4599 veterinary and veterinary para professionals were registered with the SAVC on 31 March 2011 

and 332 persons were authorised to perform veterinary or veterinary para professional services. The 

administration encouraged members to register and to maintain their registration. 

16


1 April 2010– 31 March 2011 

Professionals registered/ authorised to perform veterinary /para-veterinary services on 31 March 2011 

Professionals 

Number 

registered 

2010 

% Number 

registered 

2011 

Veterinarians (including 13 with restricted 

2771 60 2835 59.84 

registration) 

Veterinary Specialists 132 3 140 2.9 

Animal Health Technicians 962 21 993 20.96 

Laboratory Animal Technologists 24 0.5 21 0.44 

Veterinary Nurses 510 11 539 11.37 

Veterinary Technologists 200 4.5 209 4.41 

Subtotal 4599 100 4737 100 

Persons authorised in terms of section 23(1) 332 443 

Total 4931 5180 

Persons authorised in terms of section 23(1) to renders services of: 2010 2011 

Veterinarian 15 18 

Animal Health Technician 49 52 

Laboratory Animal Technologist 9 25 

Veterinary Technologist 61 101 

Veterinary Nurse 4 4 

Animal Welfare Assistant 194 243 

Total 332 443 

Registrations/authorisations and removals from the register during 2010/2011 

Professions Registrations (Removals) Re-registrations Gains (Loss) 

Veterinarian 157 (131) 38 64 

Veterinary Specialist 11 (3) 0 8 

Animal Health Technician 57 (72) 46 31 

Laboratory Animal Technologist 0 (5) 2 (3) 

Veterinary Nurse 44 (20) 5 29 

Veterinary Technologist 16 (12) 5 9 

Authorised 2010/2011 Authorisations (Removals) Gains (Loss) 

Veterinarians 14 (11) 3 

Animal Health Technicians 33 ( 30) 3 

Laboratory Animal Technologist 20 ( 4 ) 16 

Veterinary Nurses 2 ( 2) 0 

Veterinary Technologists 57 ( 17) 40 

Animal Welfare Assistants 98 ( 49) 49 

% 

17


Comparison with previous years on 31 March - 

Profession 2008 2009 Gains 2010 Gain 2011 

(Loss) 

(Loss) 

Veterinarian 2723 2660 98 2758 62 2820 

Restricted Veterinarians 12 12 1 13 2 15 

Veterinary Specialists 125 129 3 132 8 140 

Animal Health Technician 896 938 24 962 31 993 

Laboratory Animal Technologist 25 24 0 24 (3) 21 

Veterinary Nurse 490 490 20 510 29 539 

Veterinary Technologist 180 203 (3) 200 9 209 

4456 4599 138 4737 

Authorised i.t.o section 23(1) 436 503 (171) 332 111 443 

7.4 The following qualifications were accepted during the period of report in terms of Section 20 (5) (a) 

(b) & (c) to register the applicants, after successful completion of the examination (year indicated in 

brackets if not during this period of report): 

Veterinary qualifications 

1) Beechler B D.Vet.Med, Oregon, State University,USA 

2) Boschloo HM DVM, Ultrecht University, The Netherlands 

3) Chigwada GL BVSc (Univ of Zimbabwe) 

4) Dewe TCM B.V.Sc (Hons), University of Melbourne, Australia 

5) Havenga LN D.Vet.Med, St Georges University, West Indies 

6) Lumfwa L B.V.Sc, University of Lubumbashi, DRC 

7) Manyora L BVSc (Univ of Zimbabwe) 

8) Muntu Ne Muine A B.V.Sc, University of Lubumbashi, DRC 

9) Mutombo W D DVM, University of Lubumbashi, DRC 

10) Nhongo E BVSc (Univ of Zimbabwe) 

11) Ntumba K DVM, University of Lubumbashi, DRC 

12) Schultz P A B.V.M.S, Murdoch University, Australia 

13) Sibanda L BVSc (Univ of Zimbabwe) 

14) Simbizi V DVM, University of Lubumbashi, DRC 

Veterinary Nursing qualifications 

1) Choguya D Dip. Vet.Nurse, (Univ of Zimbabwe) 

2) Kakwere TR Dip. Vet.Nurse, (Univ of Zimbabwe) 

3) Mudzingwa I Dip. Vet.Nurse, (Univ of Zimbabwe) 

4) Van Dyk J NVQ 3 Vet. Nurse (Royal College Veterinary Surgeons), UK 

Competence specific registration 

1) Dvir E DVM, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel 

2) Sanz MG DVM, University of Argentina 

18


8. Committee on Specialisation 

8.1 Members of the Committee 

1 April 2010 – 31 July 2010 1 August 2010- 31 March 2011 

Dr BM Modisane- (Chairperson) 

Dr J Pretorius- (Chairperson) [Dr I Sonntag 

Prof HM Terblanche 

stood in for the period 17 November- 31 March 

Dr DB Miller 

2011] 

Dr M De Scally (Dr LL vd Merwe resigned as Prof HM Terblanche 

member) 

Prof F Reyers 

8.2 Meetings held 

• 5 May 2010 

• 13 October 2010 


None 

Dr R Lobetti 

Dr DB Mller 

Dr M Saulez 

The Committee on Specialisation made recommendations on key issues that included matters as follows: 

• Approval of Faculty experts in fields of specialisation, as opposed to registered specialists, to act as 

supervisors for candidates who enrol for the MMedVet post graduate specialist qualifications at the 

Faculty of Veterinary Science, UP; 

• How to address the lack of capacity i.e. there is not a sufficient number of registered specialists to train 

specialists in South Africa; 

• Concerns regarding the lack of capacity and that transition standards had to be implemented to ensure 

that a sufficient number of specialists are trained; 

• Opposition against transition standards which are believed to be insufficient for specialisation; 

• Further development of the minimum standards for specialisation [2008] in particular the criteria for 

supervision, logbooks and accredited centres where training could be obtained were in process. There 

have however been different schools of thought and consensus still had to be reached; 

• Although specialists were requested to provide the specific criteria for each discipline during this period 

progress has not been made; 

• Monitoring of standards of training and the main concern relating to supervised practical exposure; 

• Continued professional development [CPD] for veterinary specialists and the reality that there were not 

sufficient opportunities in South Africa for CPD for specialists. The status quo for CPD requirements for 

specialists was retained; and 

• Peer evaluation of non prescribed specialist qualifications and experience was an ongoing activity. 

Monitors were appointed for 2010 as follows: 

• MMedVet (Chir) EQ [re-monitor] -Dr HE Setzkorn; 

• MMedVet (Chir) SA [re-monitor] – Dr M Gray; 

• MMedVet MMedVet (Diagnostic Imaging) – Dr L Sweers [postponed]; 

• MMedVet (Small Animal Medicine) – Dr RG Lobetti; and 

• MMedVet (Opthalmology) – Prof PGC Bedford (foreign Vet – UK) theoretical component only and Dr LS 

Petrick (Human Ophthalmologist) oral/practical component only. 

19


Monitoring reports accepted for continued registration of the holders of the qualifications 

‣MMedVet Medicine (Small Animals) 

‣MMedVet Pathology 

‣MMedVet Bovine Medicine Gen 801 

‣MMedVet Small Stock Herd Health KKS 800 

Monitoring reports accepted but deficiencies to be rectified 

‣MMedVet Pig Herd Health VKH 800 

‣MMedVet Veterinary Wildlife Studies VWS 800 

Appointment of supervisors 

Five experts not registered as specialists and who are lecturers at the Faculty of Veterinary Science, UP were 

approved to act as supervisors for candidates enrolled for the MMedVet degree as follows: 

‣ Prof DJ Lourens- cattle herd health; 

‣ Dr S Bisschop- poultry diseases, subsequently withdrawn as Dr Bisschop left the employment of the 

Faculty; 

‣ Prof GE Bath- small stock herd health; 

‣ Dr R Burroughs- wildlife diseases; and 

‣ Prof C McCrindle- veterinary public health. 

Two applicants were not considered to supervise candidates enrolled for the MMedVet degrees 

9. Pre- Advice Screening Committee on Inspections 

The Inspections Committee did not meet as routine inspections were still pending the amendment to the Act. 

9.1 Members of the committee 

01 April 2010-31 July 2010 1 August 2010- 31 March 2011 

Dr I Sonntag – Chairperson Dr CP Marwick- Chairperson 

Dr A Erasmus 

Prof AM Lübbe 

Dr A Erasmus 

Prof AM Lübbe 

Dr NVH Nombekela-Madiba Dr L Orsmond 

Dr L Orsmond 

Prof SS van den Berg 

Prof SS van den Berg 

No meetings were held as routine inspections are pending amendment to the Veterinary and Para-Veterinary 

Professions Act, Act No. 19 of 1982. 

20


10. Other appointments confirmed and made during this period 

• Council member to handle issues of professional members experiencing problems with substance 

dependency, stress related and other difficulties- Dr AP de Vos [1 April 2011-31 March 2011]; 

• Council member to deal with the Code of Conduct & Practice for the Veterinary Profession- Dr SML Varrie; 

• Council member with the portfolio animal welfare- Dr I Sonntag [1 April 2011-31 July 2010 and as from 1 

August 2010 -31 March 2011] Dr A Banderker; 

• Representative on the public relations joint committee- Dr I Sonntag [1 April 2011-31 July 2010 and as from 1 

August 2010 -31 March 2011] Dr R Moerane; and 

• Food Security Committee- Coordinator Dr J Adam [1 April 2011-31 March 2011]. 

21


ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

31 MARCH 2011


Established under Veterinary and Para‐Veterinary 

Professions Act, 1982 (Act 19 of 1982) 

ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ‐ 31 MARCH 2011 

I N D E X 

P A G E 

Report of the Independent Auditors 1 

Balance Sheet 2 

Income Statement 3 ‐ 4 

Notes to the Financial Statements 5 ‐ 6 

The financial statements which appear on pages 2 to 7 

were approved by the board and are signed on their behalf 

on 

PRESIDENT 

REGISTRAR


Established under Veterinary and Para‐Veterinary 

Professions Act, 1982 (Act 19 of 1982) 

BALANCE SHEET AT 31 MARCH 2011 

Page 2. 

Note 2011 2010 

ASSETS: 

NON‐CURRENT ASSETS 3077992 3048549 

Fixed Assets 2 2658039 2675036 

Investments 3 419953 373513 

CURRENT ASSETS 3359666 3110825 

Accounts receivable and prepayments 52614 69043 

Short term investment and accrued interest 3210080 2917187 

Cash at bank 96972 124595 

TOTAL ASSETS 6437658 6159374 

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES: 

ACCUMULATED FUNDS 5362771 5112901 

Balance 1 April 5112901 4080518 

Net surplus for the year 249870 1032383 

Skills development fund 4 108979 100408 

CURRENT LIABILITIES 965908 946065 

Accounts payable 411489 370825 

Advertising fees in advance 0 55303 

Examination fees in advance 144629 193140 

2011 Student registrations 60129 45164 

Fees paid in advance 349661 281633 

TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 6437658 6159374

Page 3. 


Established under Veterinary and Para‐Veterinary Professions Act, 1982 (Act 19 of 1982) 

INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2011 

2011 2010 

INCOME 

Fees ‐ Veterinarians: 3080825 2853321 

Registration ‐ Veterinarians 58569 57544 

‐ Specialist 15258 6656 

Maintenance fees ‐ veterinarians 2881324 2676982 

‐ specialist 125674 112139 

Fees ‐ para‐veterinary 833834 743997 

Maintenance fees ‐ nurses 234433 209714 

‐ technologist 91369 85529 

‐ laboratory animal technologist 12809 10526 

‐ animal health technicians 455734 411090 

Registration ‐ nurses 15089 11700 

‐ technologist 5458 3600 

‐ laboratory animal technologist 0 300 

‐ animal health technicians 18942 11538 

Advertising 248615 191516 

Application fees 105821 72100 

Authorisation fees 98691 242107 

Deferment income 52193 0 

Dividend received 963 2560 

Examination fees 256658 532412 

Fines 13500 31573 

Insurance recovery 0 47090 

Interest received 261593 265061 

Overseas certificate 62197 64906 

Profit on disposal of unit trusts 15477 38979 

Sales 31795 29046 

Skills levy refund 3938 0 

Students 60112 68176 

Unrealised gain arising from change in fair value of investments 24120 3255 

5150332 5186099 

EXPENDITURE: 4900462 4153716 

Administration fees 2386683 2156214 

Kruger Inc 486689 478203 

Salaries 1877641 1670611 

Investment charges 22353 7400 

Audit fees 17500 16500 

Bank charges 20894 23079 

Database 0 3510 

Depreciation of fixed assets 80253 78111 

Carried forward 2505330 2277414

Page 4. 



INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2011 

‐CONTINUED‐ 

2011 2010 

Brought forward 2505330 2277414 

Disciplinary Inquiries 98749 129756 

Election of council 4695 2162 

Electricity, rates and taxes 52996 62331 

Examination expenses 119108 240048 

Honorariums 77961 54561 

Inspections 0 2400 

Insurance 18074 16224 

Internet expenses 23100 7684 

Meeting expenses 402523 261092 

Adhoc 46166 0 

Council 163971 105350 

CPD Accreditation 25470 25980 

Educom 50930 48615 

Executive 25465 4520 

Fees committee 16441 13890 

Food safety 6945 6945 

Investigation 20835 34957 

Registration 27780 11575 

Specialist 18520 9260 

Loss on scrapping of fixed assets 2477 0 

Monitoring expenses 37778 32410 

Photocopier expenses 42738 39546 

Postage 161298 153575 

Printing 197309 178887 

Newsletter 105210 112061 

Other 92099 66826 

Professional fees 19092 3900 

Public relations 48748 0 

Repairs and maintenance 32871 28027 

Refreshments 26221 27173 

Stationery and office supplies 86843 73605 

SAVA Congress 15540 6325 

Security 4464 6739 

Skills levy 16357 15612 

Staff recruitment 14720 0 

Telephone and fax 100216 91750 

Travelling and accommodation expenses 416871 307280 

Uif 12397 12869 

Visitation 361986 36852 

Web site development 0 85494 

NET SURPLUS FOR THE YEAR 249870 1032383

Page 5. 



NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AT 31 MARCH 2011 

1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

The following are the principal accounting policies of the council which are consistent in all 

material respects with those applied in the previous year, except as otherwise indicated. 

Basis of preparation 

The financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, except as modified 

by the change in fair value investments. 

Fixed Assets 

Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is recorded by a 

charge to income computed on the straight line basis so as to write off the cost of the assets 

over their expected useful lives. Land and Buildings are not depreciated as they are considered 

to be investment property. The expected useful lives are as follows: 

Office furniture 

6 years 

Office equipment 

6 years 

Computer equipment 

4 years 

Investments 

Investments are initially recognised at cost, including transaction costs. After initial 

recognition investments are measured at their fair values, without any deduction for transaction 

costs that may be incurred on disposal. 

Recognition of liabilities, provisions and assets 

Liabilities, including provisions, are recognized when a present legal or constructive 

obligation as a result of past events is established, it is possible that an outflow of 

resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and 

a reliable estimate of the amount of the obligation can be made. 

No liability is recognised for: 

(a) a possible obligation arising from past events whose existence will be confirmed only 

by the occurrence of one or more certain events not wholly within the control of the 

enterprise: or 

(b) it is not probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle an obligation: or 

(c) the amount of the obligation cannot be measured with sufficient reliability. 

In the case of the above, a contingent liability is disclosed. Assets are recognised when 

control of a resource is obtained as a result of past events, and from which future economic 

benefits are expected to flow to the enterprise. 

Financial Instruments . 

Financial instruments are initially measured at cost, which includes transaction costs. 

Subsequent to initial recognition these instruments are measured as set out below 

(a) Trade and other receivables are stated at their cost less provision for doubtful debt 

(b) 

(c) 

Cash and cash equivalents are measured at fair value 

Interest ‐bearing borrowings are recognised at the balance of original debt less 

principal payments.

Page 6. 




‐Continued‐ 

2011 2010 

2 FURNITURE & EQUIPMENT 

Accumulated Carrying 

Cost Depreciation Value 

Land and Buildings 

Erf 683 Lisdogan Park Township, Registration 

Division J R, Province Gauteng, measuring 1007 

square metres with buildings thereon. 

Purchased April 2008 

Cost 2463183 0 2463183 2463183 

Office furniture and equipment 298956 150533 148423 119310 

Computer equipment 151272 104839 46433 92543 

2913411 255372 2658039 2675036 

The carrying value for 2010 can be reconciled as follows: 

Carrying 

Carrying 

value at 

value at 

beginning Dis‐ Depre‐ end of 

of year Additions posals ciation year 

Land and Buildings 2447634 15549 0 0 2463183 

Office furniture and equipment 112909 40521 1115 33005 119310 

Computer equipment 116120 27372 5843 45106 92543 

2676663 83442 6958 78111 2675036 

The carrying value for 2011 can be reconciled as follows: 

Carrying 

Carrying 

value at 

value at 

beginning Dis‐ Depre‐ end of 

of year Additions posals ciation year 

Land and Buildings 2463183 2463183 

Office furniture and equipment 119310 64817 399 35305 148423 

Computer equipment 92543 916 2078 44948 46433 

2675036 65733 2477 80253 2658039

Page 7. 




‐Continued‐ 

2011 2010 

3 INVESTMENTS ‐ AT MARKET VALUE 

Sanlam ‐ Managed portfolio 419953 373513 

419953 373513 

4 SKILLS DEVELOPMENT FUND 

Balance 1 April 2010 100408 74085 

Additions during year 31603 47680 

Surplus salaries 2011 25716 11959 

Honorariums not claimed 2010 5887 35721 

132011 121765 

Less : Payments made during year 23032 21357 

Balance 31 March 2011 108979 100408

Annual Report - the South African Veterinary Council

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