Our Vision
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
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
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.
DR LYNNE HEPPLESTONE (GALPIN)
Dr Lynne was born on the 5th generation Galpin family farm outside of Kenton on Sea, schooled at DSG, and has now returned to her Eastern Cape home after many years of practice at a busy veterinary clinic in Johannesburg. Lynne has more than 25 years of experience with small animals and has a passion for beekeeping, all things Honey (including mead making and honey judging)! Also a qualified PADI divemaster, Lynne’s love of the ocean is almost paralleled by her great loves of family, cats, the Labradors Wallis and Finn, Animal and Ocean conservation, and Life itself.
SR CANDICE PARKER
With a keen interest and love of wildlife, especially the fight against rhino poaching, I joined the Ikhala Veterinary Wildlife Services team in May 2016. I am currently working as both Dr William Fowld’s Veterinary Nurse as well as supporting the clinic and helping treat small animals – best of both worlds.
In my free time and weekends I enjoy photography, socializing with friends, visiting family in Port Alfred and generally spending time in the outdoors, especially on the beach.
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!
NINA HOLDER
I enjoy dog walking, spending time on the beach (my favourite place in the world), cooking, horse riding and I am particularly interested in natural health and well-being.
I joined Ikhala as a receptionist in September 2020 and look forward to growing my knowledge and one day, studying further.
DANIEL VAN VUUREN
I was raised in Grahamstown and started job shadowing at Ikhala in 2018 before working as an eco-
student at a local game reserve. I returned to Ikhala on a training basis and loved it so much, I
decided to stay!
I am one of Ikhala’s Veterinary Assistants, and laboratory work has become my highest interest. You
will find me running tests and preparing slides daily and I love when we find a new parasite or cell to
study.
In my free time, I enjoy nature, photography and flying my drone.
LUYANDA ZANI
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.
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.