POLOKWANE – Mantoa Matlala never planned to become a veterinarian, or even a doctor, but her determination to study something led her to where she is today – the new doctor at the Molly Hawkins Clinic at the SPCA.

She grew up in Ga-Matlala and, although she has always loved animals, she never considered turning that passion into a career.

“It’s actually a funny story how I got into veterinary science. In my wildest dreams, I never imagined I would become a doctor, let alone an animal doctor,” she says.

After finishing high school, she was determined to study, but the only available opportunity was at TUT for veterinary technology. Out of desperation, she applied and was accepted. In her third year, she completed in-service training at the University of Pretoria, where she was inspired to pursue a BVSc degree, and from there, one thing led to another.

In 2023, she completed her compulsory community service at North West University’s Mafikeng Campus, working with animals at the Dale Beighle Animal Clinic.

“This was quite an experience. The hardest part of my studies was applying all the theory I had learned in my final year. It was the most challenging yet also the most exciting. It meant sleepless nights at the clinic, hard work, discipline, and dedication. But it was also the moment when everything I had worked for came together, and that was incredibly rewarding.”

Now working at the Polokwane SPCA, Mantoa admits the workload is intense but says she is loving every moment of it because she gets to serve the community in the best way she knows how.

“An employer that prioritises the patients – the animals – over money is the cherry on top. I want to create awareness that the SPCA is here for the community and truly has the best interests of animals at heart. Growing up in a rural area, I witnessed many cases of animal mistreatment, especially when it came to euthanasia. I just wish more pet owners knew that the SPCA is here to help. We don’t only care for animals during their lifetime, but we also ensure that when the time comes, they are put down humanely.”

Because she forms strong emotional bonds, Mantoa does not have a pet of her own, which makes it even more difficult for her to advise owners when euthanasia is necessary.

“Even when it’s the best decision for the animal, letting go is so difficult because our pets become part of the family. I had a dog, Benjy, who passed away from old age, and it hit me so hard that I decided to take a break from pet ownership. But I must admit, working at the SPCA has made me question that decision. These animals give us their best, and the least we can do is return the favour.”