We would like you to meet one of the best vets in show business! Dr. Kerry French is a talented veterinarian at the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL), an animal whisperer and one of the stars of our brand-new television commercial that'll be coming to your screens soon.
Let’s get to know our favourite celebrity vet better with a few personal questions that will melt your heart.
Where were you born?
I was born in Johannesburg.
Did you always know you wanted to become a vet?
I grew up on a plot surrounded by animals and birds. From an early age I had a special affinity for animals, but I thought that working with them in a healing profession would be too difficult for me.
What changed your mind?
Life led me down a convoluted path but after working as a practice manager at a small veterinary private practice, I decided that I really wanted to work in a healing profession with animals. Animals are so generous with their unconditional love and ask for so little. I wanted to be able to give back to them. So off I went to go and study Veterinary Nursing in 2007.
Do you have pets?
I have always been blessed to have pets. Currently I have two very special rescue dogs, Shirley Valentine and Nash; and 3 precious cats, Patinken, Squishy and Rhaegar. They are the light in my life.
Lights, camera… action! Let’s dig into her acting career and find out what she thinks about pet insurance.
What was the experience like?
The experience was both fun and terrifying and a real eye-opener. I have developed a new appreciation for what actors and the production crews go through every day!
Why do you think pet insurance is so important for South Africans?
I feel that pet insurance is a necessity for every responsible pet owner in South Africa. Having a pet is a great responsibility that too many people take for granted. Veterinary care is costly, as everything today is costly and responsible pet owners must plan for those times when their pet gets sick and more importantly needs basic primary health care like vaccinations, deworming and sterilisation.
Now let’s find out more about the AACL and Dr. French’s rewarding career.
Where is it based?
The AACL Johannesburg is based in Regents Ark, Johannesburg. It has been in operation for 65 years providing welfare veterinary service to the elderly, indigent, unemployed and financially needy pet owners. I have been with the AACL since 2018.
What do you love about your work?
Our work is very challenging mentally and emotionally. We see a lot of neglected animals and many that have not known any kindness. The work is very rewarding though because we know that we make a big difference for these animals, if only for the short time they spend in our hospital. I work with an incredible bunch of people and we hold each other up through the tough times.
What is your stand-out career moment to date?
My stand-out career moment to date involves a badly neglected Pitbull that was confiscated and was on death’s doorstep. We gave her a chance and she overcame incredible odds to survive and heal and a few weeks ago she was adopted. That was one of my happiest moments.
Thank you for allowing us to get to know you better, Dr. French. We can’t wait to see you on screen! May you enjoy many more French kisses from the furry friends you love, adore and care for.
If you are ready to spread some unconditional love, you can contact the AACL Johannesburg at (011) 435 0672. There are many wonderful furry friends available for adoption.
