Pet owners have been encouraged to make sure that their pets are vaccinated against rabies after the Western Cape Veterinary Services received laboratory results confirming the disease in a dog in Strand earlier this week.
Rabies is a viral disease which is transmitted by saliva or other bodily fluids and can affect animals and people. A dog or person can be infected by being bitten, scratched or licked by a rabid animal, for example.
Even though there is no effective treatment once rabies has been established, the disease is preventable by vaccinating dogs and cats. Ensuring vaccination of pets will prevent a large-scale outbreak of rabies and save lives.
The Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s Veterinary officials will be offering free rabies vaccinations for cats and dogs in the Strand area from 11am to 4:30pm on the following dates:
- 15 March 2022; Victoria Park 1
- 16 March 2022; Behind Kwik Spar Strand
- 17 March 2022; Open space on the corner of Lichtenstein and De Vos Streets
Pet owners in other areas of Cape Town are encouraged to take their pets to their private veterinarian or animal welfare organisation to make sure their rabies vaccinations are up to date.
If you suspect you have had contact with a rabid animal, get preventative treatment as soon as possible. First, wash any bite or scratch wound thoroughly with soap and water, and then immediately go to your doctor or clinic to get rabies vaccinations and immunoglobulin. The sooner you receive treatment, the better you will be protected against rabies.
For further information, contact the Boland state veterinary office on 0218085253 or email [email protected]
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Picture: Supplied
