How to find your nearest CVC clinic
1. Visit the official SAVA-CVC website
The most up-to-date clinic locations are published by SAVA directly. Go to savacvc.co.za for the latest list of operating clinics and their schedules.
2. Call the CVC head office
Phone: 012 346 1150. Ask for the clinic nearest to your area and its next operating date. Clinics typically run once or twice a month at each location.
3. Email the programme
Send a message to [email protected] with your town or suburb. The programme manager will reply with your nearest clinic information.
What to expect at a CVC clinic
- Bring your pet in a secure carrier or on a lead — stressed animals can bolt or fight.
- Arrive early. Clinics often operate on a first-come, first-served basis and can get very busy.
- Bring R20 – R50 if you can. The services are subsidised, but a small contribution helps the programme keep running. No one is turned away for an inability to pay.
- Services typically offered: vaccinations, deworming, tick and flea treatment, sterilisations, and basic health checks.
Important: SAVA-CVC clinics provide primary health care only — vaccinations, parasite control, and sterilisations. They cannot treat sick or injured animals. If your pet is sick or injured, please take them to a private veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately.
If there is no CVC clinic near you
Contact your nearest SPCA
Most SPCAs across South Africa run low-cost veterinary services for the public. Find your local SPCA by searching "SPCA [your town]" or calling the NSPCA on 011 907 3590.
Ask a private vet about a payment plan
Many veterinary practices will negotiate a payment arrangement if you explain your situation honestly before treatment begins. Have the conversation upfront.
What to do in an emergency when you cannot afford care
If your pet needs urgent treatment right now and you do not have the money, these options exist:
- Call your nearest SPCA immediately. Some branches operate their own animal hospitals.
- Contact a university veterinary faculty. Teaching hospitals sometimes offer reduced rates. The main ones in SA are Onderstepoort (University of Pretoria, 012 529 8000), Medunsa, and the Western Cape veterinary faculty at Stellenbosch.
- Ask the emergency vet about payment arrangements. Many 24-hour hospitals have credit application processes.
Planning ahead
Unexpected vet bills are the single biggest reason pets in South Africa go without treatment. Read our honest guide to pet insurance in SA — what it covers, what it costs, and whether it makes sense for you.