Gift of Sight Gift

When Thoko arrived at SPANA’s mobile clinic in rural Tsholotsho, Zimbabwe, she could no longer keep her left eye open in the bright sun. Her owner, Simon, noticed her distress as she rubbed her face against her leg to soothe the pain. Our vets examined her eye and quickly diagnosed a severe corneal ulcer, likely caused by debris or a stick blown into her eye in the dry conditions. Left untreated, the ulcer could cause scarring or a rupture of the cornea’s surface, risking blindness. She was also suffering from malnutrition and internal parasites.

Thankfully, our vets were on hand to apply topical antibiotic ointment plus anti-inflammatory and anti-parasitic injections. Simon was taught how to administer Thoko’s eye ointment at home. Thanks to prompt treatment and follow-up, Thoko regained her full vision. SPANA’s new fixed centre in Tsholotsho will provide continuous care, ensuring no animal like Thoko is left without vital treatment.