Colleagues, friends and fellow Durban animal lovers continue to pay tributes to the late veterinarian, Dr Omashini Armoogum (Govender), who has been described as humbled and dedicated to animal care.
Dr Armoogun succumbed to Covid-19 on Tuesday, 17 August, leaving the entire animal welfare fraternity in shock. Her funeral was held on Wednesday, 18 August and was broadcast on her Facebook page.
Owner of Kanine Krunchies SA, Larissa Bhagwandin, said she met Dr Armoogum and her husband Yesh in 2018. “Dr Armoogum assisted in the amputation of the dog’s leg and treated him at no extra charge. Since then, I have spent time with doctors Yesh and Omashini and their family at rescue events. They always went the extra mile to help any animal in need. They have even performed surgeries on my own animal, saving our husky pup from a potentially cancerous mass during an otherwise routine procedure and Omashini was so thorough,” she explained.
She described the mother of two as humbled, gracious, and kind. “She radiated such love and passion for her job and families of every patient and every rescuer that she knew. She was a hero in every sense of the word.”
Bhagwandin said Dr Armoogun was scheduled to spray her pup, Ollie, in July but could not due to the recent looting. “Ollie was dropped off for her rescheduled surgery and we received the shocking news of Omashini’s passing. The mood at the practice was so sombre and surreal.”
Other messages on her Facebook page read: “The veterinary world has lost a truly wonderful and highly skilled doctor and a compassionate soul. We have lost a dear friend to whom we will be forever be grateful. May her wonderful example heal our broken hearts. Our sincere condolences to Yesh Govender, their children, family and friends. Rest in eternal peace dear Omash.” – Project Dog Durban.
Barbara Patrick of Kloof and Highway SPCA: “Thinking of you all at this devastating time, Omashini was one in a gazillion. I have no words to comfort you all at this sad time, but she has left an amazing legacy and so many memories to comfort you all now and forever more.”
