“Every animal that dies – whose life we could have saved – is difficult for all of us,” says Valley Farm Animal Veterinarian Dean De Kock.
A venomous snake bite can lead to death but is usually treated with antivenoms, but South Africa is in short supply, according to some veterinarians and experts in the country.
“Every animal that dies – whose life we could have saved – is difficult for all of us,” says Valley Farm Animal veterinarian Dean de Kock.
On the other hand, the South African government denies any shortage of these medicinal materials.
“They say we’re talking nonsense, but if you ask for antivenom right now they can’t supply it,” says Johan Marais, head of the African Snakebite Institute.
South Africa is home to about 160 species of snakes, many of which are venomous. And an NHLS subsidiary and the nation’s only antitoxin maker makes just two antidotes.
