Dog owners take note: Possible canine distemper outbreak in Brakpan area
In response to the virus's incubation period, the Brakpan SPCA had decided to temporarily close the pound to the public.
The Brakpan SPCA alerts the public to a potential outbreak of the canine distemper virus in the Brakpan area. The society is in close contact with local and out-of-area veterinarians to address this matter.
Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease affecting dogs worldwide, presenting with systemic symptoms, respiratory issues, gastrointestinal problems and often neurological complications.
Vaccination is available and effective, with diagnosis through clinical signs, antibody assays or PCR tests.
Treatment is primarily supportive. The local SPCA accepts all animals into the pound, but many lack vaccination records.
Recently, they’ve seen a surge in canine distemper cases, which is alarming due to the preventable nature of the disease through vaccination.
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The public is urged to ensure their dogs are up-to-date or fully vaccinated.
In response to the virus’s incubation period, the Brakpan SPCA had decided to temporarily close the pound to the public.
This includes cancelling fundraisers, putting dog adoptions on hold, dog sterilisations and suspending animal boarding. Their offices remain open and the inspectorate functions normally.
They will continue taking in animals as per their mandate and have taken steps to ensure these animal’s safety is priority.
The SPCA, however, needs support more than ever. Financially strained by the outbreak, they request assistance with items like foot baths, disinfection materials, staff PPE, pound equipment, shade netting, building materials and most importantly, food for the animals.
To prevent further spread of canine distemper, the SPCA requests the public to:
• Ensure their dogs are fully vaccinated according to guidelines
• Secure their dogs within their yards to prevent roaming
• Prevent interactions with unknown animals
• Keep high-risk dogs away from public spaces.
If you suspect your dog may have canine distemper symptoms, seek immediate veterinary care.
If you cannot afford the assistance of a registered veterinarian, contact the Brakpan SPCA for further assistance.
The contact details are:
• Brakpan SPCA: 011 742 2007
• Brakpan SPCA Emergency: 083 696 9052
• Email: manager@brakpanspca.co.za
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