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Hill’s Pet Nutrition is proud to announce their groundbreaking collaboration with Cape Animal Dentistry Service to spearhead a dental initiative at the SANParks K9 Unit in Kruger National Park. This partnership aims to transform dental care for South Africa’s hardworking canine heroes, aligning with Hill’s ongoing sustainability drive.
Specialist Veterinary Dentist Dr Cedric Tutt, Dr Patrick Liversage, and Sr Ursula van der Riet, from Cape Animal Dentistry Service along with Platorand Dierekliniek’s Dr Natli Roevert and Sr Ali Du Toit, generously donated their time, expertise, and equipment to support this vital initiative. With Hill’s assistance, they procured essential medication, equipment, and oxygen cylinders to ensure the success of the programme. The team was backed up by the presence of Dr Guy Fyvie, Dr Megan Brown, and Sr Brigid Goudie from Hill’s Pet Nutrition, who provided invaluable support in anaesthetic monitoring, nursing, logistics, and planning throughout the two-week programme.
During this remarkable collaboration, a total of 53 anti-poaching unit dogs from the greater Kruger area received dental procedures worth over R414,000. In addition to comprehensive dental treatments, including general scaling and polishing, the dedicated team addressed the oral health needs of Doberman Bloodhound Crosses, pack hound dogs, Mallinois’, Dutch and German shepherds, and one spaniel—an indispensable gate detection dog.
“This project has been one of the most rewarding endeavours we have ever worked on. The rangers’ immense appreciation for recognising and aiding their dogs is truly heartwarming. We are thrilled to see the long-serving SANPark dogs requiring less dental work each year. Working alongside such a dedicated and professional team has been an absolute privilege, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved,” says Dr Fyvie from Hill’s Pet Nutrition.
He adds that 95% of SANPark poaching arrests are made with the help of tracker dogs and that Hill’s is globally committed to helping to protect and conserve our planet and wildlife. It was this that brought Hill’s inspirationalMaking CONTACT campaign to life. The five-part mini-series celebrates anti-poaching K9 units in South Africa’s nature reserves and shines a light on the amazing role that dogs are playing as well as the incredible handlers who are making a real difference in the fight against poaching.
By ensuring optimal dental health for these hard working dogs, they can continue their vital roles in conservation efforts.