Free rabies inoculations available at the State Vet
Pet owners are compelled by law to ensure that their dogs and cats are vaccinated at the age of three months followed by a second vaccination within 12 months, and thereafter every year in infected areas.
LYDENBURG – In the past two years there has been a dramatic increase in rabies cases, countrywide.
To protect pets (dogs and cats) against this disease, rabies vaccinations are being carried out by Private Veterinarians and Veterinary Services free of charge from 22 to 26 September.
Rabies is a fatal, viral disease to which people and all warm-blooded animals e.g. dogs, cats, pigs, donkeys, game etc., are susceptible. The disease is mainly transmitted by the bite of an infected animal and is characterized by behavioral changes, salivation, abnormal high-pitched howling or barking, progressive paralysis e.g. dropped jaw and the appearance of a bone in the throat, and death.
Pet owners are compelled by law to ensure that their dogs and cats are vaccinated at the age of three months followed by a second vaccination within 12 months, and thereafter every year in infected areas. It is essential that proof of vaccination (vaccine booklet, vaccine certificate) is kept and accompanies the animals when traveling.
* A Civit recently showed strange behavior and the State Vet’s offices were called. Tissue was sent for testing and they await the results.
Human rabies vaccine and anti-rabies, immunoglobulin’s can prevent rabies in humans if given correctly and immediately after exposure to the rabies virus. If an animal bites a person, wash the wound with water and soap for five minutes and consult a medical practitioner immediately.
The public should immediately notify the local State Veterinarian of a suspected case of Rabies and contact Control AHT Johan Engelbrecht on 076-501-4938 or the office on 013-235-2071/2
