South Africa – Mara Asmis (2024)

Last June, I had the privilege of studying abroad in South Africa alongside 15 of my Texas A&M veterinary school peers and Dr. Alice Blue-McLendon. The purpose of this three-week course was to immerse ourselves in wildlife medicine and conservation, but what I gained from the experience extended far beyond the technical skills we practiced. Under the mentorship of Dr. Peter Brothers of Brothers Safaris, an experienced South African wildlife veterinarian, we were exposed not only to hands-on veterinary work but also to the complex ecological, cultural, and ethical landscape surrounding wildlife conservation in South Africa.   

From the moment we arrived in St. Lucia, our first of several destinations, I was struck by the immense biodiversity and natural beauty of the country. South Africa’s landscapes were more varied than I had imagined, each region offering a completely different ecological perspective. In St. Lucia, we explored a subtropical wetland ecosystem teeming with life, where hippos moved through waterways at dusk, and crocodiles basked along the banks. As we continued our travels, we experienced expansive grasslands dotted with acacia trees, the dramatic coastline of the Indian Ocean, and vast semi-arid regions that felt reminiscent of West Texas, yet were alive with species I had only ever seen in textbooks or documentaries.

Seeing these animals in their natural habitats was both humbling and exhilarating. Zebras, giraffes, and antelope moved across the landscape with a sense of ease and belonging that could never be replicated in captivity. Predators such as lions and cheetahs, animals I had long admired from afar, were no longer distant concepts but living, breathing individuals whose survival depended on the delicate balance of their ecosystems. These moments reinforced for me the importance of preserving not only individual species, but the environments that sustain them.

One of the most impactful aspects of the trip was the opportunity to actively participate in wildlife veterinary procedures. Working alongside local veterinarians and reserve staff, we assisted in immobilizing, treating, and releasing a variety of wild animals. These experiences were both technically challenging and deeply meaningful. We helped with procedures on several rhinos and buffalo, participated in the care of numerous antelope species, and even assisted in a male lion vasectomy.

Each procedure required careful planning, precision, and teamwork. Immobilizing large wild animals is inherently risky for both the animal and the veterinary team, and every step must be executed efficiently to minimize stress and ensure safety. I gained a new appreciation for the pharmacology involved in wildlife anesthesia, as well as the importance of monitoring vital signs under field conditions where resources are limited. Unlike a controlled hospital environment, we often worked in remote locations with minimal equipment, relying heavily on clinical judgment and collaboration.

Participating in rhino dehorning was particularly impactful. Before this trip, I had only read about this practice in the context of anti-poaching efforts. Seeing it firsthand brought a new level of understanding. Rhino horns are a major target for poachers, and dehorning is one strategy used to reduce their value and protect these animals from being killed. While it is not a perfect solution and does not eliminate the threat, it is one of many tools used in a broader conservation strategy. Being directly involved in this process highlighted the difficult decisions that must be made in conservation medicine—decisions that often involve weighing imperfect options to achieve the best possible outcome.

Beyond the hands-on veterinary work, the educational component of this experience was equally profound. It truly felt as though there is no greater education than travel. Throughout the trip, we engaged in discussions about the growing threat of wildlife poaching in Africa, particularly the devastating impact on rhino populations. We examined the economic and social factors that contribute to poaching, including poverty, demand for wildlife products, and the challenges of enforcing conservation laws across vast and often remote areas.

We also explored the controversial roles that ecotourism and trophy hunting play in wildlife conservation. Before this experience, I held relatively simplistic views on these topics. However, through conversations with local experts and community members, I began to understand the nuanced reality. In some cases, regulated hunting and tourism provide critical funding for conservation efforts and incentivize the protection of wildlife habitats. In others, they raise ethical concerns and highlight disparities in how wildlife resources are valued and utilized. These discussions challenged me to think critically and recognize that conservation is rarely straightforward—it is shaped by ecological, economic, and cultural factors that must all be considered.

Equally important was learning about the people of South Africa and their relationship with the wildlife around them. South Africa is a country rich in cultural diversity, with a complex history that continues to influence its present. We encountered individuals from a variety of backgrounds, each with their own perspectives on conservation and land use. For many communities, wildlife is both a source of pride and a source of conflict. As human populations expand and available land becomes more limited, interactions between people and wild animals are becoming more frequent. These interactions can lead to crop destruction, livestock predation, and even threats to human safety.

This dynamic underscored the importance of the One Health concept and the recognition that human, animal, and environmental health are deeply interconnected. Effective conservation strategies must take into account not only the needs of wildlife but also the well-being of local communities. Sustainable solutions require collaboration, education, and a willingness to address complex social and economic challenges. Meeting individuals who are dedicated to this work was incredibly inspiring. Their commitment to finding long-term, sustainable solutions reinforced my own interest in pursuing a career that contributes to both animal health and broader public health efforts.

Another key takeaway from this experience was the importance of communication and teamwork. Working with wild animals often involves high-pressure situations where clear communication is essential. Whether coordinating during an immobilization procedure or discussing treatment plans, every team member plays a critical role. Miscommunication can have serious consequences, so it is vital to be precise, attentive, and adaptable.

This trip also strengthened my ability to collaborate effectively with peers. At the beginning of the course, our group consisted of individuals with varying levels of experience and familiarity with one another. However, through shared challenges and experiences, we quickly developed a strong sense of teamwork. By the end of the three weeks, we had become not only efficient collaborators but also close friends. The support and camaraderie within our group made even the most demanding days rewarding and reinforced the value of working alongside people who share a common passion.

On a personal level, this experience pushed me outside of my comfort zone and broadened my perspective on what it means to be a veterinarian. Before this trip, much of my training had been focused on small animal medicine in a clinical setting. While that remains an important part of my career goals, this experience introduced me to the field of wildlife and conservation medicine in a way that was both tangible and inspiring. It reminded me that veterinary medicine is incredibly diverse and that there are many ways to make a meaningful impact.

This trip and the opportunity to work hands-on with wild animals were truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will always cherish. I am deeply grateful to Texas A&M, Dr. Blue-McLendon, and Dr. Peter Brothers for making it possible. Their dedication to education and conservation created an environment where we were able to learn, grow, and contribute in meaningful ways.

South Africa is an extraordinary country, filled with breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and kind, passionate people. It is a place that challenges you to think differently and to appreciate the complexity of the natural world and our role within it. Anyone who has the opportunity to explore it should take that chance.