WALKERVILLE – Woodrock Animal Rescue, led by project coordinator Marizda Kruger and on-site manager Jordan du Toit, successfully sterilised more than 300 dogs and cats over three days in a large-scale spay-and-neuter project.

The project, the first of its kind in Walkerville, took place at Johnny Walker’s Pub and was the culmination of months of meticulous planning and preparation.

The initiative was specifically targeted at Walkerville due to the economic struggles of its residents, many of whom cannot afford to have their pets sterilised.

Kruger, who has been involved in such projects for 25 years, shared her motivation, which began during her time as a veterinary nurse at the SPCA.

“I had to euthanise thousands of dogs. It killed my soul,” she explained. “I realised there had to be a better way and Woodrock Animal Rescue gave me that opportunity.”

This early experience inspired her to start small-scale sterilisation projects, which have since grown to the magnitude of the recent Walkerville event.

Woodrock Animal Rescue provided the surgeons and medical supplies, with additional support from Let’s Spay SA.

On the first day the team set up the surgical theatre, and at 13:00, the first of 83 procedures was performed.

The following day, operations ran from 8:00 to 21:00, resulting in 117 sterilisations.

The team performed 101 surgeries on the third day, and due to need, 40 more were booked for Thursday.

The long hours included post-surgery cleanup and sterilisation of equipment, highlighting the dedication of the entire team, including those working behind the scenes.

Accommodation for the team was generously sponsored by Misty River, ensuring they were well-rested for the demanding schedule.