WATCH: Why Kloof SPCA urges you to vaccinate your pets for rabies
The local non-profit organisation has recorded nine incidents of rabies since the beginning of 2021.
AFTER a drastic increase in the number of rabies cases since the beginning of 2021, the Kloof and Highway SPCA has urged pet owners to ensure their furry friends are vaccinated.
According to the Kloof and Highway SPCA’s Brigitte Ferguson, in the past two months the organisation had eight dogs and one cat test positive for rabies.
“A total of nine cases in 60 days compared to only three cases in the whole of 2020. Some animals were strays with no history and some animals were owned, living in homes with their families and sadly coming into contact with many people and animals before being brought to the Kloof and Highway SPCA,” she said.
Ferguson noted there have been two human deaths from rabies reported in the province and 24 cases of rabies in KZN since the start of 2021.
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“The Kloof and Highway SPCA urges members of public to make sure their pets are vaccinated yearly against rabies as well as exercise caution when approaching stray animals,” said Ferguson.
In the event of being bitten or scratched, the animal welfare organisation said the bite area should be washed immediately and flushed under running water. Medical attention should also be sought immediately.
“If you are bitten or scratched by an animal with no proof of vaccination, you will be required to go for a costly course of rabies vaccinations treatment. Rabies is fatal and the threat of it should not be taken lightly,” said Ferguson.
For animal related emergencies, during office hours, contact 031 764 1212. For after-hour emergencies contact the emergency line on 073 335 9322.
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