About Ikhala | Ikhala Veterinary Clinic

To be a globally recognised veterinary centre leaving animals, humans and the planet in a better state than we found it in.

Mission Statement

We aim to achieve our vision by providing advanced and innovative veterinary care, promoting education and research and practising in an ecological, sustainable and conservation focused manner. Our holistic approach to veterinary medicine places equal importance on Animal, Human and Environmental health in an effort to improve the planet for the long term. We are excited for you to be a part of this exciting vision!

DR EMILY BAXTER

Emily graduated from the University of Bristol (UK) in 2013. She was drawn to Africa by its incredible wildlife and spent 9 months volunteering for Ikhala Wildlife Veterinary Services and Amakhala Game Reserve. She returned to the UK to work in a mixed animal practice for 18 months, treating everything from mice and snakes to cows and horses. She rejoined the Ikhala team in 2016 and decided to settle in this beautiful part of the world.

She has developed an intense passion for working with wildlife and exotic animals and all other unique animals South Africa has to offer. Emily is the Practice Principle for Ikhala Veterinary Clinic and is ambitious about making the clinic an even more friendly, caring and eco conscious place.

DR WILLIAM FOWLDS

The Fowlds family have lived and been educated in the Grahamstown area for six generations. Will worked in small animal practice in the UK for 5 years after qualifying before returning to the Eastern Cape in 2002 to pursue his passion for wildlife and conservation. Apart from living his dream ofworking with wild animals amidst the incredible bio-diversity of the Albany area, he also travels extensively abroad raising awareness and support for our threatened wildlife.

Will is passionate about the contribution that this veterinary team can bring to the people and animals of this area and is proud of the diverse skills and commitment we have assembled here.

MARISSA VAN NIEKERK

Originally from the United States, I was born an animal person and have always been drawn to Africa and it’s wildlife, especially rhino. I qualified from Washington State University in Animal Sciences in 2008 and moved to South Africa in 2011 to work on a game reserve in KZN. I became a veterinary nurse in 2013 and have worked in hospitals, animal sanctuaries and on game reserves ever since.

I found Ikhala whilst working on a nearby game reserve and can say that I am very excited to join the esteemed team here. I look forward to getting to know all our clients and of course, our patients.

On a personal note, my husband and I recently moved to Kleinemonde with our giant dog Stompie, where we enjoy home renovating, traveling, birding, and being in the bush as much as possible. In my spare time I raise funds and awareness for the fight against rhino poaching.

Please feel free to pop in and say, “Hello” when you’re next here, as I look forward to meeting you!

SR GER-MARIE KEMP

I grew up on a beautiful farm near a very small town called Vivo in Limpopo, and I’m sure that is where my love for animals came from.

I always knew I wanted to work with animals and started my studies to become a veterinary nurse at Onderstepoort in 2018 and completed my studies in 2019.

I’ve worked with a variety of animals before, including: small animals, some exotics, large animals and a little bit of wild life.

If I’m not at work I enjoy spending time with my husband, my 2 dogs Buks and Jaap and my cat Tony.

I’ve joined the Ikhala vet team in the beginning of March 2024 and I’m excited for everything the future holds!!

LUYANDA ZANI

Luyanda joined Ikhala Veterinary Clinic at the beginning of 2018 as a general assistant. However, his potential was clear from the start and Luyanda is now training to obtain his Diploma in veterinary assistance.
Luyanda is a key member of Ikhala and no matter what, you can expect him to help you with a big smile on his face!

COURTNEY BUNGE

I grew up in a small farming community in KwaZulu-Natal and recently moved to Grahamstown.
Growing up on a farm we were always fortunate enough to have a variety of animals around, from
dogs and cats, to horses and cows, and this is where my passion for animals and nature developed.
In 2022 I joined the Ikhala team, and work primarily as Dr. Emily Baxter’s assistant but also support
the clinic lending a hand with the small animals and farm livestock. I am currently finishing my
studies to become a certified Animal Health Technician.
When I’m not busy with Ikhala, you’ll find me outdoors, spending time with friends and family or
trail-running with my Jack Russel, George.

ISHKA FULLARTON

I was born in Grahamstown and have lived in this little town my whole life. I matriculated in 2023 at Victoria Girls High School and am now studying towards a diploma in Animal Health through UNISA.

I enjoy being outdoors, playing sports, spending time with my Jack Russell’s, Jock and Josie, and doing all sorts of things that get my adrenaline pumping.

I admire all animals and I have always been blown away by the beauty of our wildlife in South Africa. To one day have the privilege of working with them will be a dream come true.

I am starting at Ikhala Vet Clinic as a receptionist in the hopes to gain more experience by being in the environment, which will eventually help me in the long run after I complete my studies. I’m very excited to be part of such a wonderful and caring team of people. I look forward to learning more day by day and meeting you all !

MSINDISI KONDLO

Msindisi, known as McGregor, is originally from Port Elizabeth but came to Grahamstown in 2005
and started working at the local hospital. He was trained and certified in Waste Management and is
an asset to our team, knowing all the procedures for sterilization and keeping our hospital in top-
notch cleanliness.
McGregor joined the Ikhala team in February of this year and loves helping out wherever he can,
whether it hanging pictures or helping with patients. He genuinely love all animals, but especially BIG
dogs!

KHALLI

Khalli was brought to us as a kitten that had been found abandoned on the nearby Army base. She
was bottle-raised by our staff and we quickly fell in love with her. You will see Khalli walking around
greeting patients as they come in and asking for some love.

Our Vision