Mokopane remember to vaccinate your beloved 4-legged friend
Local state veterinarian, Dr Erika Klemp, urges the community to vaccinate their pets against rabies.
MOKOPANE – Compulsory rabies vaccinations will be done by veterinary officials between the 16th and 18th July at the Van Rensburg Hall as well as the town library, from 07:00 to 17:00.
Klemp says that there are currently no reported cases of rabies in Mokopane, but annual vaccination for dogs and cats remain vital. She advises pet owners to vaccinate annually to prevent this deadly disease. Unfortunately, there’s not much that can be done for your beloved pet if it’s not vaccinated.
Klemp says pets must be put down if diagnosed with rabies. She further warns to not pick up foreign animals, “especially wild animals that appear tame.”
According to Klemp, cats and dogs can spread rabies even before they show symptoms. “Here’s where the danger for humans, especially children, comes in.” She pleads that the moment someone comes into contact with an animal with rabies, that they go to their nearest hospital and get treatment.
“The incubation period is seven days but can take up to six months. You must get help urgently.”
Symptoms for animals with rabies include foaming around the mouth, aggression, behavioural change and paralysis. Interestingly, Klemp told Bosveld that animals with rabies get hydrophobia, a great fear of water. Also, pets’ jaws seem to become limp. “It’s a cruel disease and must be prevented as far as possible. Please vaccinate.”
