The programme is led by Baines Vet Care Mobile Animal Clinic in partnership with the University of Namibia. It aims to make responsible pet care accessible and affordable and to prevent unwanted litters.

Dr Ian Baines, a veterinarian at Baines Vet Care, explained the benefits of sterilising pets. “Females will not produce kittens and puppies continuously, which places an additional strain on their systems. Males are less likely to roam and get into trouble, reducing the risk of being hit by cars. Sterilisation also lowers the chances of contracting infectious diseases, including sexually transmitted infections and illnesses such as parvovirus and distemper. Once sterilised, they can also be fully vaccinated,” he said.

Veterinarian Maleagy Awene, part of the initiative, said the programme helps break the cost barrier for pet owners. “It has been an amazing experience, with strong community engagement and cooperation. I am here to share the knowledge I acquired at school and give back to the community,” she said.

Pet owners welcomed the service. Johannes Vries said free services encourage people who cannot afford treatment to bring their animals forward. “If people are not able to pay for services and it is given free of charge, they are encouraged to come as frequently as they can,” he said.

Lynette Oosthuizen, manager of the SPCA Keetmanshoop, said there is a huge need for sterilisation in the area. “We see far too many unwanted pets being abandoned. Our mission is to help these animals by getting them sterilised to stop unwanted litters,” she said.

Since its inception several years ago, the mobile clinic has sterilised more than 22,000 animals across the country.