This week on Womanity, Dr. Amaleya Goneos-Malka speaks with Dr Kaylin du Plessis, a veterinarian at the Pretoria Zoo whose work combines exotic animal medicine, complex surgery, conservation, and compassion.

From the outset, Dr du Plessis reveals that her journey into veterinary science was driven by a childhood love of animals and a deeper calling to advocate for beings who cannot speak for themselves. This sense of purpose has shaped a career defined by resilience, precision, and an unwavering commitment to animal welfare, particularly within the highly specialised and demanding world of exotic veterinary medicine.

Inside the World of Exotic Animals

Dr du Plessis unpacks what “exotic” truly means, clarifying the distinction between domestic animals, wildlife, and non-native species. From primates, wild cats, antelope and birds to reptiles, crocodilians, fish, and even venomous snakes, her work spans an extraordinary diversity of species, each with its own anatomy, physiology, behavioural traits, and medical risks.

She explains why surgery on exotic animals is vastly different from domestic practice: tiny, fragile patients; highly sensitive responses to anaesthesia; slow healing processes; specialised equipment; and the ever-present risk of stress-induced complications. In this world, there is no formula—every case is handled individually, with meticulous attention to detail.

Memorable Cases and Life-Saving Decisions

The interview brings listeners into the operating theatre through unforgettable cases:

A red kangaroo saved after the removal of a massive cancerous tumour once deemed inoperable
A lioness brought back from the brink after emergency surgery for a life-threatening uterine infection
A Cape vulture revived through swift tele-guided intervention
Surgeries on a gorilla, gibbon, capuchin, and even a forest cobra with facial cancer

These moments underscore a powerful philosophy that defines Dr du Plessis’s work: every life deserves a chance, regardless of species, size, or public perception.

The Hidden Realities of Veterinary Medicine

Beyond the remarkable cases, Dr du Plessis speaks candidly about the less glamorous realities of the profession, such as its emotional toll, physical demands, financial pressures, and exposure to zoonotic diseases such as tuberculosis. She highlights the importance of emotional resilience and support in a field where burnout is common.

She also addresses widespread misconceptions about owning exotic pets, warning that they are neither low-maintenance nor inexpensive, and that many animals suffer due to inadequate knowledge, improper care, and delayed medical attention.

Women, Science, and Breaking Stereotypes

As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated and physically demanding field, Dr du Plessis reflects on gender bias, recounting moments where her expertise was questioned simply because she is female. Rather than deterring her, these experiences strengthened her resolve—fuelling a career built on competence, discipline, and consistency.

She speaks passionately about the growing opportunities for women in exotic medicine, conservation, research, academia, and zoo practice, and emphasises that empathy, communication, and attention to detail are strengths—not weaknesses—in veterinary science.

Balancing Career, Motherhood, and Identity

One of the most resonant parts of the conversation is Dr du Plessis’s honest reflection on motherhood and work. Rejecting the myth of perfect balance, she reframes success as finding fulfilment in both career and family, supported by boundaries, self-care, and strong support systems. “Recharge is not a luxury,” she reminds listeners; it is a necessity.

Perseverance, Mentorship, and Purpose

Dr du Plessis shares her own story of perseverance, initially failing to gain entry into veterinary school, persisting through years of study, and succeeding against steep odds in one of South Africa’s most competitive academic fields. She highlights the importance of mentors, community, and choosing the right tribe, as well as contributing to the global knowledge base through research and publishing.

A Message to Women and Girls

Closing the conversation, Dr du Plessis delivers a powerful message to women across the continent:
You belong in science. You belong in medicine. You belong in specialised fields.
Success may not follow a straight line, but with discipline, curiosity, and belief in yourself, it is achievable.

Tune in for more