Rabies – information for all pet owners
Pets who accompany owners away on holiday or go to areas outside the property for walks, must be on a leash and fully vaccinated.
The Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL) in Johannesburg has urged the public to take all their dogs and cats over three months of age to their regular veterinarian or welfare hospital, to get a rabies vaccination if not received in the last year.
With seven confirmed cases of rabies in jackals and one dog in the north of Johannesburg, caution must be exercised with pets.
Rabies is a fatal disease affecting the brain that is spread through the infected saliva of a rabid animal via a bite, scratch or being licked, in humans and animals.
The closer the bite is to the brain, the faster the virus will spread.
Anyone bitten, scratched or licked (over a wound/sore) by an animal showing abnormal behaviour should wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water to disinfect the wound and then immediately thereafter contact a doctor stating you were bitten by an animal that may have rabies, in order to start treatment.
Abnormal behaviour signs shown in animals include excessive aggression, salivation and being unable to swallow, battling to walk or paralysis.
Contact the state vet, local veterinarian or animal welfare organisation should you see an animal exhibiting these signs.
Do not approach the animal as wild animals often appear tame but may attack without reason.
Teach your child not to approach or handle any animal without the animal owner’s permission and especially any stray or wild animals.
Early signs in humans include weakness, headache and fever with advanced signs including insomnia, anxiety, excessive salivation and difficulty in swallowing, a fear of water, nausea and vomiting.
By law, all dogs and cats over three months of age must be vaccinated against rabies. This is your responsibility as a pet owner.
Don’t let your pet wander freely and do not handle stray animals.
Pets who accompany owners away on holiday or go to areas outside the property for walks, must be on a leash and fully vaccinated.
Community safety is important in preventing this fatal disease.
