Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital (JWVH) is a registered non-profit organisation dedicated to the rescue, treatment, rehabilitation, and release of indigenous South African wildlife.
Founded by Dr Karin Lourens and Wendy Willson, JWVH was established to fill a crucial gap in wildlife care — providing a fully equipped, specialist veterinary facility that exists solely for wild animals, not domestic pets or livestock.
Every patient that comes through our doors — from pangolins, eagles, and owls to genets, bushbabies, and tortoises — receives advanced veterinary care and compassionate treatment tailored to its species-specific needs. Our ultimate goal is always the same: to return each animal to its natural habitat, healthy and free.
Our hospital works closely with law enforcement, conservation authorities, and partner organisations to combat the illegal wildlife trade, one of the most urgent conservation crises facing South Africa. Through expert veterinary reports, evidence documentation, and court testimony, JWVH plays an essential role in the enforcement of South Africa’s NEMBA and TOPS regulations, protecting threatened and protected species.
Beyond the clinical work, we are deeply committed to education, collaboration, and research. JWVH provides training and mentorship to students and professionals, participates in ongoing scientific research (including pangolin health and post-release monitoring), and actively promotes awareness about the importance of wildlife welfare and conservation ethics.
As a non-profit hospital, JWVH receives no government funding and depends entirely on donations, grants, sponsorships, and volunteer support to continue our work. Every contribution helps us save lives, rehabilitate wildlife, and preserve South Africa’s natural heritage.
At the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital, true conservation is hands-on, relentless, and guided by compassion, science, and teamwork.
The products that we sell on our store are to support the work that we do and to keep our doors open! As a non-profit, we rely on the generous donations and support from the public.
