By day, her scrubs are covered in fur from rubbing countless bellies of “good boys and girls”.

At night, with her curly mane brushing over her shoulders, Dr Leigh Kymdell-Nel, owner of Robin House Pets in Northmead, dips her paintbrush into an array of vibrant colours, breathing life into her creative spirit.

At the age of 11, Leigh assisted a friend’s dog through birth, her small fingers helping throughout the process. It was then that she decided to become a veterinarian.

Working at countless veterinary hospitals throughout Ekurhuleni, Leigh’s proudest achievement is assisting The Animal Guardians (TAG), in Cloverdene in providing affordable basic care, such as vaccinations and sterilisations, to the community’s furry residents.

“I wish I could do more to reach more animals. I wish that I could assist every struggling household to provide the best possible care to their pet,” she said.

“There is, unfortunately, no quick fix, but I hope that through continued effort we can make a difference.”

Smiling as her husband, Pierre, walks into the room balancing a tray of steaming cups of coffee, Leigh says that through her career and current project, having her life partner at her side has made every endeavour easier to face.

“For the past two decades, we have faced life’s challenges together,” she said, casting another look at the man she says gives her the freedom to follow her dreams.

“I believe we complement each other, both intellectually and emotionally. Pierre not only supports my career but has leapt head first into helping me bring Robin House into reality.”

When asked what personal characteristics she identifies with most, the vibrant vet, business woman and mom to 13 fur-babies responded that she values remaining soft and empathetic.

“The world is becoming a hard and cruel place. We are inundated with news and developments which threaten to drown us,” she said.

“I will always choose kindness and care. I may not be able to change the world, but I can have a positive impact on someone else’s life.”

In celebration of Women’s Month, Leigh said this should be a time when the city’s women take a moment to celebrate personal victories, commit to making time for self-care and to shine.

“Life is busy and demanding, and often we forget to make time for ourselves,” she said.

“Whether you explore your creativity, invest time in your physical well-being or curl up to read a book – make time for yourself!

“You cannot fulfil your responsibilities if you are running on empty. Self-care is essential for you, your family and the community.”

In her parting message, Leigh appealed to the community to continue to support animal welfare organisations.

“Our organisations are overburdened, yet they continue to be the voice for the city’s animals,” she said

“Benoni is filled with animal lovers who would do anything to safeguard their tail-wagging brood. I appeal to every one to do the same for those who have been abused, neglected and abandoned. Whether you volunteer or support fundraisers, do so valiantly.

“God told Adam to watch over the animal kingdom and to protect it in His honour; it is up to each of us to step into that role.”

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