- 011 764 2542
- Address: Cnr CR Swart & Naboom Street No. 71 Wilropark
- After hours emergency: Fourways Veterinary - 011 705 3411.
- Alternative: Specific arrangements can be made with one of our vets.
- MON - FRI....................................07h30 – 11h30, 15h30 – 18h30
- SAT...............................................08h00 – 12h00, 17h00 – 17h30
- SUN/PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.............10h30 – 12h00, 17h00 – 17h30
- 25 DECEMBER, 1 JANUARY........Closed
OUR SERVICES
BEHAVIOR
Is your pet exhibiting strange or unwanted behavior? Our doctors will gladly work with you to help overcome issues your pet may have.
ORTHOPEDIC
Like humans, dogs and cats can suffer from a variety of problems related to their heart and lungs. However, veterinary medicine has made great strides in recent times, which has enabled us to provide our pets with longer and healthier lives related to heart disease.
VACCINATIONS
Immunizations are needed to protect your pet from harmful diseases. Please contact us to provide you with a list of the latest vaccines available.
SURGERIES
We offer our patients the best veterinary surgical services available. We use up-to-date surgical and anesthesia equipment and techniques to deliver safe, efficient surgery. We have strict standards of care and monitoring for every procedure. (Blood is available.)
DENTISTRY
Healthy teeth and gums are essential to your pet’s overall health, well-being and longevity. Preventable dental conditions can develop into pain and infection. We provide a variety of dental services including instruction on preventative care, oral hygiene assessment and treatment.
LABORATORY
Our hospital is equipped with an In-House Laboratory that allows our veterinarians to quickly perform diagnostic tests to achieve an accurate and rapid diagnosis
HOUSE CALLS
In an emergency we can dispatch one of our team members to come and collect your pet. We also do house calls. Give us a call to find out more
RADIOLOGY & THERMAL IMAGING
Veterinary radiology provides a means of obtaining views of your pet’s internal organs by using X-rays and ultrasound. In veterinary medicine, X-rays are used to examine and diagnose conditions inside your pet’s body that are out of sight to the veterinarian.
MediWallet and Pet Insurance welcome
OUR DOCTORS
Dr. Mariana Zietsman
Mariana graduated from Onderstepoort in 2008. After graduation she joined our family here at Helderkruin vet and has been working here ever sins. She also attends regular continuing education to keep up to date with the latest aspects of veterinary science. She has a keen interest in cats and medicine. In her free time she likes travelling, diving, triathlons and running.
Dr Dyllan de Beer
I completed my studies at Onderstepoort in 2012 whereafter I went into general practice for two years, then going to Mauritius in 2015 to help animals in need there by working together with PAWS to better the lives of all the animals on the island. Thereafter we moved back to South Africa where I worked in mixed animal practice, treating a myriad of species, large and small, we helped them all. From there I took over ownership of Helderkruin Veterinary clinic in January of 2018 and we are still going strong. I have a special interest in exotic animals as well as game animals. I also have exstensive experience in surgery, othropeadic surgery being my favourite. I strive to give my patients the best care possible and always try to go above and beyond to make sure they are the happiest they can be.
PHYSIO
Annico de Beer
“I studied, trained and qualified in the UK at TCAP, and have been practicing animal physiotherapy and rehabilitation since 2016.
My aim is working together with my veterinarians both post-trauma and pre / postoperatively to ensure the correct and proper aftercare and rehabilitation of each and every patient, accelerating the rate of physical, mental and emotional recovery.”
When your pet has suffered a traumatic injury which requires conservative or surgical treatment or is struggling with a neurological disorder, we have a rehabilitation program in place.
First and foremost, veterinary clinical examination, diagnostics and if necessary, surgical treatment is needed to proceed with physical and therapeutical treatments or exercises.
The physiotherapist will attend to your pet as soon as your veterinarian deems your pet ready for rehabilitation and after we have recieved your permission to continue with rehabilitation after veterinary examination and treatment whether invasive or non-invasive
- +27 60 973 7493
- animal_physio@icloud.com
Get to know your pet
Size:
Despite their small size, Yorkies have a big personality. They are classified as a toy breed, typically weighing between 4 and 7 pounds (1.8-3.2 kg) and standing around 20.3 -22.9 cm tall.
Coat:
Yorkies have a distinct, long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. However, their hair is more similar to human hair than fur, making them a popular choice for people with allergies.
Intelligence:
Yorkshire Terriers are known for their intelligence. They are quick learners and can excel in various dog sports and activities, including obedience, agility, and even tricks. Training and mental stimulation are important for their well-being.
Protective Nature:
Despite their small stature, Yorkies can be quite protective of their families. They tend to be alert and will bark to alert their owners of potential threats. Early socialization can help them develop a well-rounded temperament.
These are just a few fascinating facts about Yorkshire Terriers. They are a delightful breed with a lot of charm packed into their small frames!
Origin:
Labrador Retrievers, commonly known as Labs, originate from the island of Newfoundland in Canada, not Labrador as their name might suggest. They were originally bred by fishermen to help retrieve fishing nets and caught fish that escaped from the nets.
Water-Resistant Coat:
Labs have a unique double coat that provides them excellent water resistance. The outer coat is dense and slightly oily, while the inner coat is soft and insulating. This coat adaptation makes them fantastic swimmers and water retrievers.
Temperament:
Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They have an even-tempered and gentle disposition, making them great family pets and therapy dogs. Their loving and patient demeanor often makes them excellent companions for children.
Popularity:
Labrador Retrievers consistently rank as one of the most popular dog breeds in various countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Their intelligence, trainability, and friendly nature contribute to their widespread popularity.
Talented Service Dogs:
Due to their high intelligence and versatility, Labs are widely used as service dogs in various roles. They excel as guide dogs for the visually impaired, hearing dogs for the deaf, search and rescue dogs, and even as detection dogs in law enforcement agencies.
These facts highlight some of the unique characteristics and qualities that make Labrador Retrievers beloved by dog enthusiasts worldwide.
A Jack Russell terrier is a small, muscular dog breed that originated in England for fox hunting. It has a white body with black or tan markings and can have a smooth, rough or broken coat. It is a spunky, adventurous and fun-loving dog that can be a great family companion.
Lifespan:
According to various sources, the average lifespan of a Jack Russell terrier is between 13 to 16 years, which is longer than the general average dog life expectancy of 11.2 years. However, some Jack Russells can live up to 17 years or more. They are among the healthiest and longest-living dog breeds.
Debut:
The Jack Russell terrier made its debut in England in the mid-to-late 1800s as a small but feisty fox hunting dog. It was named after the Rev. John Russell, an avid hunter who created the breed. The breed was first recognized in the United States in 1976 by the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America.
Protective Nature:
Jack Russell terriers are known to be good guard dogs because they are highly alert and aware of their surroundings, and they are protective of their owners. They are also vocal dogs and will bark or show aggression towards threats if they are not trained not to do so. However, they are also friendly, loyal, and playful dogs that can get along well with people and other animals if socialized properly.
Dental problems:
Jack Russell terriers are prone to have more dental problems than other breeds because their jaws are small and their teeth can get overcrowded and hard to keep clean. This can lead to a build-up of tartar and plaque, which can cause swollen gums, bad breath, and periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a painful condition where the gums become inflamed and bacteria eventually deteriorates the teeth, bones, and tissue.
The German shepherd is a loyal, courageous and versatile breed of working dog that originated in Germany in the late 19th century. They were bred by Captain Max von Stephanitz, who wanted to create a superior herding dog that could adapt to any task. Today, German shepherds are widely used as guard dogs, police dogs, military dogs, guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, and family pets.
German shepherds have a medium to large size, with a muscular and athletic build. They have a double coat of medium length, which can be black and tan, black and red, black and silver, solid black, or white. They have erect ears, a long muzzle, and a bushy tail. They shed heavily twice a year and require regular brushing and grooming.
German shepherds are intelligent, obedient and eager to learn. They excel at training and can perform a variety of tasks and commands. They are also loyal, protective and affectionate with their owners and family. They can be wary of strangers and other dogs, so they need early socialization and exposure to different people and situations. They are not suitable for apartment living, as they need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. They can also be prone to some health issues, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, allergies, and dental problems.
German shepherds are ideal for active and experienced owners who can provide them with consistent leadership, training, exercise and care. They are not recommended for novice or passive owners who cannot handle their strong personality and energy level. German shepherds are loyal companions who will protect and serve their owners with devotion and courage.
Siamese cats were originally bred to help control rodents around rice paddies in Thailand. Siamese cats are medium-sized, svelte, and refined-looking cats with long, tapering lines and strikingly blue eyes. They are known for their sleek, distinctive appearance.
Siamese cats are prone to dental disease more than your regular cat. Over 70% of cats over the age of 4 experience some sort of dental disease. Siamese cats may be especially vulnerable to specific conditions due to their genetics and physical characteristics. One of the significant dental challenges they face is gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums.
Distinct Appearance Through Temperature-Sensitive Enzymes:
Siamese cats are known for their striking color points, which means their ears, face, paws, and tail are darker than their bodies. This unique coloration is a result of a temperature-sensitive enzyme called tyrosinase. The enzyme is active in cooler areas of the cat’s body, leading to darker pigmentation in those regions. This is why Siamese kittens are born almost completely white – they are born in a warm environment inside their mother’s womb.
Vocal and Social Nature:
Siamese cats are renowned for their exceptionally vocal behavior. They are known to “talk” to their owners, expressing their desires, opinions, and needs through meowing. Their vocalizations have been compared to the cries of a human baby. Siamese cats are also known for their social and affectionate nature. They tend to form strong bonds with their human companions and can become quite attached, seeking out interaction and companionship.
The Bengal cat is a domesticated cat breed that was created by crossing an Asian leopard cat with a domestic cat, especially the spotted Egyptian Mau.
The Bengal cat is known for its wild appearance and smartness. It is growing in popularity due to its pattern and personality, and it stays about the same size as a large domestic house cat. They are affectionate, playful, and can get along with people of all ages as well as other pets.
Bengal cats are known to be fond of water and enjoy playing in it. This trait is believed to have been passed down from their Asian Leopard Cat ancestors, who are known for their love of water. Bengal cats may enjoy various water activities, such as drinking from the tap, swimming in the pool or bath, or joining their owners in the shower. However, not all Bengal cats like water, but most do.
Distinct Appearance:
Bengal cats are a breed that has wild origins from crossing Asian leopards with domestic cats. They have a wildcat look with spotted coats and small heads and ears.
Social Nature:
They can be trained to walk on a leash. They are usually quite large. The Bengal cat is an energetic breed that needs much exercise and play. They are confident, social, and do well with someone to play with. Bengals tend to be more energetic and athletic than other breeds. You can expect them to be social, playful, and engaging.
The Persian cat breed is believed to have originated in Persia (now Iran) and was likely a result of crossbreeding between Turkish Angora cats and African wildcats.
The Persian cat, also known as the Persian longhair, is a long-haired breed of cat characterized by a round face and short muzzle1. It is believed that the first documented ancestors of Persian cats might have been imported into Italy from Khorasan as early as around 1620. However, this has not been proven. Instead, there is stronger evidence for a longhaired cat breed being exported from Afghanistan and Iran from the 19th century onwards.
Persian cats are widely recognized by cat fanciers since the late 19th century. They were first adopted by the British and later by American breeders after World War II. Some cat fancier organizations’ breed standards subsume the Himalayan and Exotic Shorthair as variants of this breed, while others generally treat them as separate breeds. The selective breeding carried out by breeders has allowed the development of a wide variety of coat colors, but has also led to the creation of increasingly flat-faced Persian cats. Favored by fanciers, this head structure can bring with it a number of health problems.
Distinct Appearance:
The Persian cat is a long-haired breed with a distinctive flat face and large eyes. This breed gets its name from Persia (now modern Iran), where they most likely originated. They are heavily boned, well-balanced cats with a sweet expression and soft, round lines. Persian cats have large round eyes set wide apart in a large round head. The long thick coat softens the lines of the cat and accentuates the roundness in appearance.
Social Nature:
The Persian cat is known for its very sweet, gentle, and calm disposition. They are highly social animals and enjoy spending time with their human companions.
The Maine Coon is a breed of domesticated cat that originated in the United States, specifically in Maine, in the early 1800s.
They were used by farmers and sailors to catch mice and rats. The breed is known for its large size, shaggy coat, and large tufted ears. The Maine Coon is considered the oldest native cat breed in the United States.
According to MaineCoon.org, the Maine Coon has been recognized as the national breed of Canada. It is the largest representative of domestic cats.
Distinct Appearance:
Its characteristic feature is the brush scratches on the ends of its ears, which add to its charm and apparent wildness.
It owes its name to the American state of Maine, where it originated.
Social Nature:
Maine Coons are sociable and inquisitive, and can usually be found wherever the action is in the house, inserting themselves into every interesting situation. Talkative but not overly loud, they express themselves through a variety of soft and melodious meows, chirps, and trills.
They are quite trainable cats and enjoy learning tricks, responding well to positive training methods and tasty food treats.
Uninformed people just accept this as the norm, without question, and are unaware of the consequences.
Found in India, typically between the Eastern and Western Ghats. They live in trees and experience massive fluctuations in both temperature and humidity year-round.
Medium-to-fast growth rate. Females and males can reach full size within a couple of years.
Females reach a legspan of between 6″ and 7″. Females can live upwards of 12 years.
The enclosure should be very large with a substantial amount of height to it. There should be about 2 inches of substrate on the bottom, and it should be decorated with a hide and fake plants/leaves. A water bowl should also be present.
Great eater that can eat several adult-sized crickets per week. Dubia roaches and mealworms should be used as supplemental food.
Not the most aggressive tarantula, but definitely isn’t scared to fend for itself. If threatened, it will throw up a threat pose, and it has a very painful bite to back up its threat. In fact, it possesses some of the most potent venom.
Advanced – While it isn’t the most difficult tarantula species to care for, its temperament is not easy for inexperienced keepers to deal with. It could pose quite a threat to beginners.
Indian Ornamental tarantulas are not known for their calm, docile demeanor. Instead, it should be noted that this is not a tarantula species that’s suitable for even occasional handling. Their quick movements make their actions difficult to predict, potentially resulting in them harming themselves or you.
While this is a tarantula species that’s much more prone to flee than put up a fight, you don’t want to take your chances. As they are an old world tarantula, they tend to have a shorter temper and a more painful bite.
While these tarantulas are described as fast-growing, they can only achieve this if they’re given a healthy diet. Tarantulas can’t be overfed, so it’s always a good idea to provide too much food than too little food. A healthy Indian Ornamental can eat almost daily, so don’t get concerned if yours is wolfing down food.
The Poecilotheria genus has a wild diet that’s defined mostly by termites, beetles, grasshoppers, and moths. This doesn’t need to be exactly what they’re fed, though. The most commonly-fed food to this species are crickets, roaches, and even locusts.
Bearded dragons are well-known small to medium-sized lizards. They are currently considered one of the most popular pet lizards for all ages. There are eight species of bearded dragons, but the most popular one is the inland or central bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) from the arid to semi-arid southeastern parts of Australia. They are commonly bred in captivity in the US and Canada.
Owners often refer to their pets as ‘beardies’. They are attractive, heavy-bodied lizards with flattened trunks and broad triangular heads. They have a spiny pouch (or beard) under their chin that can be expanded and will also turn black when they are threatened or are aroused during mating. They have a characteristic series of spines projecting horizontally from the sides of the body, running from the head to the base of the tail. Full-grown healthy adults can reach 18-22 inches (45-56 cm) from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail. There are a wide variety of color and skin texture mutations being commonly bred, so there are many options for the right bearded dragon that suits your fancy. Color variations can range from tan to dark brown or bright orange. A new variation known as a ‘leatherback’ has very smooth scales and a limited number of spikes on the head and sides.
Sexing bearded dragons under three months of age is very challenging. In the adult, the male has larger femoral pores (used for scent marking) located on the underside of the thighs just in front of the vent. Male bearded dragons are slightly larger than females and have larger heads and darker ‘beards’.
The young are semi-arboreal (live in trees) and the adults are mostly terrestrial, climbing occasionally to bask or search for prey. Captive bearded dragons can live about 7-12 years if properly cared for.
Bearded dragons are omnivorous, requiring both plant and animal-based foods as part of their diet. Bearded dragons exhibit a unique behavior called ‘arm waving’, as that is what the behavior looks like. They lift one arm slowly and then slowly put it down again. A slow head bob often accompanies the wave.
The purpose of this action is not entirely understood but is believed to be a form of communication, possibly indicating submission to a more dominant animal.
“Bearded dragons are highly social, friendly, animated, curious, docile, and gentle animals that are easy to tame and are very responsive to their owners.”
Your bearded dragon should be examined by a veterinarian familiar with reptiles within 48 hours of purchase. A thorough physical examination includes determining the animal’s weight, as well as an assessment of the oral cavity, eyes, skeletal condition, and overall alertness. Your veterinarian will also check for obvious physical abnormalities.
Boa constrictors can be safe pets. While they are large and strong, they are not deadly snakes. Boas do not eat humans, but there are many incidents of them biting humans. Do not allow a child to handle a boa constrictor, especially unsupervised, as they can mishandle a boa and be accidentally strangled. A boa is not a beginner snake.
Boa constrictors can make fascinating and rewarding pets, but they do require proper care and attention.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering a boa constrictor as a pet:
Behavior and Temperament:
Boas are typically active and alert snakes.
While they might hiss or bite if they feel threatened, consistent handling usually makes them tame and calm.
When holding a boa, ensure one hand is under its body near the head, and the other hand supports the back half of its body. They might loosely wrap around you for added support, but they typically won’t constrict unless alarmed or falling.
Housing:
Enclosures for boa constrictors must be secure since they are powerful and can escape.
For adult boas, a good enclosure size is around 6 to 8 feet long, 2 to 3 feet wide, and 2 to 3 feet tall.
The minimum floor space required for a single snake is approximately 10 square feet.
Hide boxes are essential for their security. Provide at least two hides—one at each end of the temperature gradient.
Hides can be half logs, commercial reptile caves, upside-down plastic containers, or cardboard boxes. Ensure they are not much larger than the snake for a snug fit.
A cleaned and sterilized tree branch (able to support the snake’s weight) can also be provided.
Heat, Light, and Humidity:
Boas love warmth. Heat sources such as heat lamps or under-tank heaters are necessary.
Thermoregulation is crucial, so provide a temperature gradient within the enclosure.
UVA/UVB lighting is not essential for boas, but ambient light is beneficial.
Maintain appropriate humidity levels (around 50-60%) by misting the enclosure and providing a water bowl.
Substrate:
Use appropriate substrate such as cypress mulch, coconut husk, or aspen bedding. Avoid substrates that can cause impaction, like sand or gravel.
Feeding and Water:
Boas are carnivorous. Feed them appropriately sized pre-killed rodents (mice, rats, or rabbits).
The frequency of feeding depends on the snake’s age and size. Always provide fresh, clean water in a shallow bowl.
Health Considerations:
Regularly check for signs of illness, such as abnormal shedding, respiratory issues, or parasites. If you notice any health problems, consult a reptile veterinarian.
Lifespan:
Boas can live 20 to 30 years on average, so be prepared for a long-term commitment.
Remember that boa constrictors are powerful animals, and while they can become tame and comfortable around people, it’s essential to respect their strength. Proper care and understanding will ensure a rewarding experience with your pet boa!
FREE RABIES VACCINATION EVENT
(300 doses available.)
Mark your calendars for September 23rd from 8 am to 12 pm at Helderkruin Veterinary Clinic! We’ve got something special for all the pet lovers out there.
( Cnr C R Swart & Naboom Street No. 71 )
We’re not only providing FREE rabies vaccinations but also giving away 100 doses of DEWORMING!
Bring your furry friends along – cats in a travel cage and dogs on a leash.
Please note: Breeders are not eligible for this offer, and NO appointments need to be made!
Spread the word and let’s keep our beloved pets healthy and happy together!
#GetVacciinated #Rabisin #Rabiesawareness #HelderkruinvetCares
RHDV - RABBIT HEMORRHAGIC DISEASE VIRUS
Highly contagious and often fatal viral disease that affects domestic and wild rabbits.
If you suspect your rabbit has been exposed to RHDV or is showing any concerning symptoms, it is essential to seek veterinary assistance promptly.
Here are three common symptoms of RHDV:
SUDDEN DEATH – Healthy one day and die suddenly the next.
HEMORRHAGING – Bleeding from the nose, mouth, or rectum.
LACK OF APPETITE – Loss of appetite and become lethargic.
Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) is a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease that affects domestic and wild rabbits. While there are different strains of RHDV, they generally cause similar symptoms. Here are three common symptoms of RHDV:
Sudden death: One of the hallmark symptoms of RHDV is a rapid and unexpected death in rabbits. The virus can cause severe internal bleeding, leading to organ failure and death. Often, affected rabbits may appear healthy one day and die suddenly the next without showing any obvious signs of illness.
Hemorrhaging: RHDV can cause internal bleeding in various organs, including the liver, lungs, and heart. Rabbits may exhibit bleeding from the nose, mouth, or rectum. In some cases, the bleeding may not be externally visible but can be detected through laboratory tests.
Lack of appetite and lethargy: Infected rabbits often experience a loss of appetite and become lethargic. They may show a reduced interest in food and water, leading to weight loss. Lethargy and weakness are commonly observed, and the rabbit may appear less active or spend more time lying down.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can vary depending on the strain of RHDV and the individual rabbit’s immune response. Additionally, not all infected rabbits may display these symptoms, and some may die without showing any clinical signs. If you suspect your rabbit has been exposed to RHDV or is showing any concerning symptoms, it is essential to seek veterinary assistance promptly.
Vaccinating hares and rabbits is crucial, and we offer a vaccination specifically designed to protect against RHDV.
Exotic Blog
In November 2017, Dr. Dyllan de Beer and Animal physio Annico de Beer went in search of a reportedly ill or injured Black back jackal at Jackal Creek Golf Estate.
Upon locating said jackal, it was clear that he was not feeling well, but the reason was unclear and without physical examination it would be impossible to treat the jackal accordingly. Dr. Dyllan then proceeded to dart the jackal, following him from and to various hiding places across the estate to ensure his safe incapacitation and the safety of the estate’s residents.
The pursuit took some time but when we were finally able to recover and examine the jackal, it was clear that he had been the victim of attacks from the other jackals at the estate, and he was in poor health, covered in external parasites and was running a fever due to infection from the bite wounds.
After taking him back to the veterinary clinic, Dr. Dyllan treated him for internal and external parasites, cleaned and stitched up his wounds and administered the necessary medication.
Annico then proceeded on manually removing the massive number of ticks present on the jackal, cleaned his ears and brushed his teeth.He was given anti-sedatives and once awake he was provided with a nutritious meal and relocated to live freely at an animal sanctuary chosen by the board members of Jackal Creek Estate.
In December 2017 Dr. Dyllan de Beer went to a house call to see a Large White pig named Wilbur. He was around 5 months of age at that stage when he was seen by Dr. Dyllan.
Wilbur had been found at an abattoir, crawling on the floor as he was unable to straighten his front feet at the wrists. After he had been rehomed and examined by Dr. Dyllan, it was clear that he had soft tissue condition which affected the tendons and ligaments surrounding his wrists (carpal joints), which disabled him in straightening his wrists and him having to walk on the joints themselves instead of his hooves.
Wilbur was then referred to Annico de Beer our resident Animal Physiotherapist for rehabilitative treatment to correct his tendons and ligaments in those joints via therapeutic ultrasound, electrostimulation, massage and passive and active exercises.
The entirety of the treatment was almost a year of daily treatment until he was able to walk upright to the best of his ability. He is now a healthy, happy and massive piggy, going about life in a normal way, with regular checkups by both Dr. Dyllan and Annico to ensure he is pain and strain free.
In November 2018 Dr. Dyllan was contacted by a farmer in Makopa, an hour’s drive from Thabazimbi, that he had found a bushbuck in the veld next to his crops whilst checking on the waterline.
Dr. Dyllan drove to the farm to collect the baby bushbuck which he brought to the clinic for examination and a drip due to him being extremely dehydrated and malnourished.
After recovering for a day at the practice, he was then taken to the home of Dr. Dyllan where he and his wife Annico de Beer raised him on a bottle containing milk replacer used for calves without a mother, game feed and fresh fruits and berries.
He lived with them for about a year before he was released on a game farm to live freely and in peace where he would be safe and cared for.
In May 2020 Dr. Dyllan was presented with a pet bushbaby which had fallen from a height whilst asleep, injuring his tail and one of her hind limbs.
Upon clinical examination and x-rays it was clear that only her tail was broken and luckily, she only had minor bruising to the rest of her body and a sprained ankle.
Her tail was bandaged, and she was given the necessary pain and inflammatory treatment, and after several follow-up treatments she made a full recovery and is once again climbing and jumping in the sanctuary.
In July 2019 a sheep farmer contacted Dr. Dyllan regarding relocating two servals he had caught in a baited cage on his farm. Dr. Dyllan along with his wife Annico went to collect the two servals who turned out to be mother and son.
Their paws, claws, face and teeth had been injured due to them trying to escape the cage. Dr. Dyllan sedated the mother and son and took them back to the clinic where they were treated for their superficial wounds, external and internal parasites, and each had dental procedures to remove and repair broken teeth where possible.
After surgery and treatment, they were taken to Dr. Dyllan’s home to recover safely and comfortably in an enclosure specifically for wild animals. After recovering for 6 weeks, they were released back into the wild on a family game farm.
In March 2014 Dr. Dyllan de Beer was contacted by the head of an animal welfare organization in Mauritius about coming to work there for a while to specifically aid in the treatment of the exotic animals residing on the island.
After moving to Mauritius with his wife Annico de Beer they treated hundreds of dogs, cats, birds etc. but the most interesting patients he treated were the enormous Galapagos Island tortoise which had been injured by a falling palm tree during a massive storm. One of the segments of his shell had been crushed and Dr. Dyllan cleaned and treated his wound after which his shell was repaired with a fiberglass replacement segment. The large old soul made a full recovery.
The other two patients treated that were incredibly interesting and such a privilege to meet was two Flying foxes, indigenous only to Mauritius. The first Flying fox came in to see Dr. Dyllan with a broken wing. This flying fox was a fully grown adult male, wild and in a lot of pain after flying into a powerline and falling to the ground. Dr. Dyllan operated and placed a pin in the broken bone in his wing, caring for him at home until he was well enough to fly freely once again.
The other flying fox patient to come into Dr. Dyllan’s care was a baby whose mother had been shot by a farmer, him being the only survivor, he was found on the ground clinging to his deceased mother. The bullet that ended his mother’s life unfortunately permanently disabled the baby flying fox, causing irreparable damage to his one wing. He was then raised and cared for by Dr. Dyllan and his wife in their home in Mauritius until he was well and strong enough to be taken into the care of the staff at the local animal sanctuary.
In September 2020 a little hamster came in with what seemed like a small abscess in the area around his nose and mouth causing him to not being able to eat properly.
After Dr. Dyllan de Beer sedated the tiny patient, we were all amazed at the real reason he was unable to eat, chew or gnaw properly. The top two teeth he needs for gnawing were so overgrown that they grew into his nasal cavity and made a literal spiral upon exit and re-entry of the face, resembling the tusks of an elephant.
Dr. Dyllan then proceeded to give the tiny guy a full dental and wound cleaning after which he went home to make a full recovery and monthly check-ups on his ever-growing teeth as he does not like to gnaw on the appropriate toys given for teeth maintenance by his owner.
In April of 2022 Dr. Dyllan de Beer had been asked by a game breeder to assist in the transfer of buffalo from one camp to another on the outskirts of Potchefstroom.
Assisted by his wife Annico de Beer and the farmer himself, we drove up to the herd of Cape Buffalo bulls and waited until the precise moment Dr. Dyllan had the perfect shot to dart the specific bull which needed to be moved within the herd. As buffalos are notorious regarding their aggressive behavior towards other animals and humans, every precaution was taken to ensure the safety of the darted bull, and everyone involved in moving the large animal.
As soon as he went down and he was completely incapacitated we then proceeded on loading the animal onto a truck via a winch, then moving him to another camp and waking him up safely without anyone or anything getting injured or being attacked by either the sedated bull or the others within his herd.
In December 2016 Dr. Dyllan de Beer had been called to a farm in Tarlton to help a Camel farmer with his camels.
A few of the young camels needed to be sedated and then surgically fitted with nasal studs which are needed for their training in order to be relocated to where they are needed in the world. With the help of his wife, the farmer and the caretakers of the camels, Dr. Dyllan then sedated four of the young camels and implanted the nasal studs whilst under the effects of local anesthetic.
A relatively quick procedure with very little recovery time. After they had all been given an anti-sedative and long-working antibiotics, they were able to move around as normal, galloping with their mothers once again within the herd.
In January 2018 a bearded dragon came to the practice not wanting to eat and seemingly constipated.
Dr. de Beer sedated the patient with gas and proceeded to examine his nose and mouth, discovering that he had eaten a massive dung beetle which had become lodged in his throat causing him to be unable to swallow properly but still able to breathe and the constipation followed due to him eating so poorly.
Large, hard pieces of the beetle were removed from his mouth and throat, and he went happily on his way home to recover, eat and drink normally.
One sunny morning in Jan 2023 we received a call from a desperate owner who had just left for a trip about 5 piglets on their farm.
The mother had passed throughout the night and they were thus orphans. The little piggies were hungry, cold and anxious when we went to collect them. We immediately got them into a clean and warm environment, and struggled quite a bit to get them to drink from a bottle and teat but after a couple of attempts we succeeded and they were all happy grunting piglets by the end of the day.
The piggies resided with us up until their owners returned from their trip after a few days. They are now all happy and healthy, rolling in the mud on the farm.
In June of this year, whilst helping a farmer near Fochville to dart an injured buffalo.
Dr Dyllan was contacted by a neighbouring farmer to come and help free a trapped serval from a snare. The poor wild cat had been caught in a poacher’s snare and was in severe distress.
After treating the serval for minor injuries, Dr. Dyllan set him free and disposed of the snare.
I would just like to express my thanks to you and your staff at Helderkruin Clinic.
As you know I have been bringing my pets to your Practice for many years. I have always received great care, help and advice for my pets.
I remember the time you really went “beyond the call of duty” so to say. When Tazmin needed pain medication every 6 hours, you came out at midnight to ensure she was getting her pain medication. For this we will always be grateful.
I and most importantly my canine family have been clients of Helderkruin Veterinary Clinic for more than 20 years.
During this time, “our vets” have been always there for us whether it was just routine vet visits, vaccinations, tummy upsets, wounds, emergencies and sadly more serious problems like terminal illness and disease.
ALL the staff members at the HVC are courteous, professional and most importantly they really go above and beyond to ensure the well-being of my dogs. The exceptional knowledge, diagnostic skills and surgical skills of “our vets” at HVC is the reason I have been a client for so long.
Thank you Dr. Dyllan De Beer and Dr. Mariana Zietsman for the care and attention Bella got coming in over a long week end . We are well on the way to a full recovery I am positive about that!
Helderkruin Veterinary Clinic have saved the lives of 2 of my precious K9’s and have given them many more extra years of life – been going there for many, many years 
I have been with Helderkruin Veterinary Clinic for more than 20 years, they have seen and looked after all my animals, I wouldn’t go anywhere else! You guys are the best! Nothing is too much of a hassle. Your love & care when my babies have had to cross the Rainbow Bridge means more than any words I have. Thank you.
I have been going to Dr Dyllan De Beer since January 2018. My first consultation with Dyllan was for my pet pig Wilbur. Wilbur is a commercial large, white pig, who unfortunately has a genetic defect in both his front legs. This causes him to “walk” on his wrists. At this time Annico De Beer, the practise animal physiotherapist, also started treating Wilbur. The treatment was done at my home, and involved extensive treatment, including physical massages, heat/sonar and infra-red therapy, and joint manipulation. Wilbur is not a very accommodating patient and Annico’s treatment on him was often fraught with stress. Needless to say all involved developed lightning reflexes to dodge attempted bites from Wilbur. Dyllan continues to treat Wilbur, and makes house calls to Hennopsriver to treat a still difficult patient, who now weighs in at approximately 400kgs. Wilbur is prescribed the best medication for his condition, which often requires research from Dyllan, due to the fact that commercial animals are often not provided with extensive veterinary treatment for genetic problems as they are slaughtered before problems can present themselves.
Dyllan treats my dogs, cats, rats, chickens and ducks. My animals are always treated with compassion and great care, and my queries answered with patience. The required treatment has been for various veterinary problems ranging from day to day treatment, operations, and the unfortunate euthanasia. When Dyllan is not available l see Dr Mariana Zietsman, who is as caring and compassionate. The practise receptionists are always friendly and helpful, as are all the staff who assist and operate behind the scenes.
I cannot recommend this practise enough.
I have had the absolute pleasure of meeting Dr de Beer and his lovely wife some 13 years ago. I had Huskies and 13 years ago I bought my 1st 2 Samoyeds. I was so worried as most Vets said that they didn’t know the Samoyed breed. But I was so lucky as Dr de Beer immediately said to me that he has done research on Samoyeds and was ready to take on my Babies. Along the way Dr and Mrs de Beer then purchased Helderkruin Veterinary Clinic . A place that I call a home for my Babies when they are sick or need medical attention.
I have on number of occasions seen pets brought in that u would have had no hope of survival. Knocked by vehicles, poisoned, bitten by big dogs and all sorts of injuries and illness. And all were treated and left in excellent health. The entire team at the Clinic are friendly, loving and caring towards pets and their parents. Dr de Beer and Dr Marianna has treated my 10 year old boy and my 9 year old girl since I bought them they just love their “Oom Dyllan” and “Tannie Mariana” While Annico de Beer has given all my Babies physio on several occasions. They love their “Tannie”. Please do not hesitate to take your pets to Helderkruin Vet at any time.
Thank u Dyllan and Annico and staff for your excellent service.
Helderkruin Veterinary Clinic is the best that I have attended. Pets are treated with utmost love and care. Every fur-baby gets extra-special attention. Our babies felt so at home there. When told they were going to see “Oom Dyllan” they became so happy despite being sick. Dr. Dyllan de Beer, Dr Mariana Zietsman and Mrs. Annico de Beer, the animal physiotherapist welcomed all babies with a warm smile that made the parents feel so happy to leave sick babies there without hesitation knowing that they will be fine. I will rate them a 5-star clinic.
I have been a client at Helderkruin Veterinary Clinic for over 20 years now. We have seen vets come and go. Dyllan De Beer and Marianna Zietsman are the most compassionate vets and always put the welfare of our animals above all else. What is really unique about Helderkruin Veterinary Clinic is that we have our very own Physio therapist to do post op physio without having to go elsewhere. The receptionists are always polite and helpful, and it is easy to build a good relationship with all the staff at the clinic. I would highly recommend the clinic.
Dyllan en Annico is “sout van die aarde” mense, hulle gaan uit hulle pad… en beyond…. om te help, raad te gee, en by te staan met soveel liefde. Hulle liefde vir diere gaan hulle vooruit, en hulle sorg vir enige iets wat asem haal. Jou furry friend is nie net nog n diertjie nie, elke diertjie word met soveel liefde en compassion behandel en versorg. DIE beste in die weste!!! HOOGS aanbeveel!!!
Helderkruin is by far the best veterinary clinic I have ever been to. Dr Dyllan de Beer and Dr Mariana Zietsman are extraordinary veterinarians, who take their time with your pet and don’t make a consultation feel rushed, and their animal physiotherapist Annico is amazing. My snake sadly passed away and the kindness, professionalism and compassion I received from ALL members of the staff was incredible. I take all my animals there and I shall continue to do so for many years to come. I highly recommend them.
We met Dr. De Beer in 2012 and since then we have always taken our pets to him. The Helderkruin team has and always will be incredible. Here they truly care and live out their love of animals. I can testify to this as we used to have a small yorkie Coco, that was severely allergic to a magnitude of things that resulted in us being at the vet at least bimonthly. There wasn’t a dog food in South Africa that she could eat, so I had to cook for her and since she was so severely allergic to multiple things, she had to get monthly vitamin injections to prevent any deficiencies. She was also an extremely stressed girl after an incident as a pup she ended up with complete bowel obstruction which had to be surgically corrected. Her chances were 50/50 but she pulled through because of the love and care. The stress and allergies often triggered gastroenteritis and often led to admission however, being admitted she refused to eat, defecate or anything which didn’t help her recovery. So Coco would be admitted during the day, and be dropped off at night whenever this happened until she was ready to be treated as an outpatient.
Where do you get veterinarians that really takes the emotional states of animals into consideration? At Helderkruin vet… that’s where. I could honestly write pages of how every person at Helderkruin helped our family. Dogs’ tails look like motorboats when they see the doctors. Each pet has had personal care that speaks mountains. Dr. De Beer and Mrs. De Beer (animal physiotherapist) has accompanied us to Onderstepoort for a specialist consult and Mrs. De Beer has helped our other yorkie, Mila recover from multiple surgeries. I have phoned Dr. Zietsman afterhours when my 3rd yorkie, Crispy, stole some chocolate off my pedestal and she rushed to the practice to aid us. This same yorkie she caught a leaking heart valve early and that gave us almost 3 years with him extra where his prognosis was only a year. The day we had to say bye to Crispy, Dr. Zietsman sat with me, hugged me, while I was sobbing.
I could honestly write pages of how every person at Helderkruin helped our family. Our dogs’ tails look like motorboats when they see the doctors. I highly recommend Helderkruin vet, for any pet, from farm animals and game to exotic pets. Not just because they’re extremely knowledgeable but because of their exceptional compassion.
When we adopted Tessa in July 2021 she had a crippled right paw and was unable to use it at all. She compensated by walking on the side of her arm but must have done so for quite some time because she was quite used to this way of getting around. When we asked if there was anything that could be done about this injury we were told that to amputate at the shoulder was the only answer. For us – wrong answer! We decided to take her to Helderkruin Veterinary Clinic for a second opinion.
Dr Dyllan de Beer had a good look at her and told us that all was not lost. He suggested his wife Annico, the surgery’s physiotherapist, take Tessa under her wing for some much needed physio to loosen the tendons and muscles in the paw. This was done for some weeks and the paw responded quite well but was still not “user-friendly”. So we suggested a boot. The boot was ordered, tried and tested and given the proverbial boot. Not a solution for Tessa. But Dr Dyllan and Annico weren’t giving up. Dyllan took some more X-rays and came up with the idea to lengthen the tendon in the paw to give it enough flexibility to bend enough to enable Tessa to put it flat on the ground. We immediately said yes to the op and so it was done. It worked. With more physio and massage our little lady is now able to walk, run and do so many things other doggies can. Although the paw itself will always be crippled because of the damaged toes the miracle is that its use is restored.
Thank you seems just totally inadequate for what we feel but it’s all we have except to tell anyone and everyone that this is the best Veterinary Clinic in our world and we are so happy to have made such good friends at the clinic. There are always big welcoming smiles when patients waddle in and nothing is too much effort from all the staff. So, (Con)tessa sends to all a big schlurp and a high five with the restored paw and mom and dad can only say a tearful THANK YOU to Dyllan, Annico and the staff at Helderkruin for the miracle they have performed in all our lives.
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Send us a Email if you would like to contribute to Animal Welfare.
info@helderkruinvet.co.za or reception@helderkruinvet.co.za
CONTACT US
- 011 764 2542
- info@helderkruinvet.co.za & reception@helderkruinvet.co.za
- Physical Address Cnr CR Swart & Naboom Street No. 71 Wilropark 1724 GPS:-26.121722, 27.849231
- After hours emergency: In case of an emergency after consulting hours: Please phone the Fourways Veterinary Hospital on 011 705 3411. 1162 Witkoppen Rd, Magaliessig Sandton. Alternative specific arrangements can be made for one off our vets to be on call. Please make an appointment.
CONSULTING HOURS
- MON - FRI....................................07h30 – 11h30, 15h30 – 18h30
- SAT...............................................08h00 – 12h00, 17h00 – 17h30
- SUN/PUBLIC HOLIDAYS.............10h30 – 12h00, 17h00 – 17h30
- 25 DECEMBER, 1 JANUARY........Closed
