A serious health alert has been issued that every dog owner needs to be cautious about.

On October 3, a message shared by SPCA Roodepoort/ Krugersdorp manager Mandy Cattanach on community WhatsApp groups stated that a local veterinary clinic confirmed a case of Canine Distemper in the area.

Canine Distemper is a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease that attacks a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. The symptoms include fever, coughing, vomiting, seizures, and, in most cases, death.

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At the same time, another dangerous virus, Canine Parvovirus, is also spreading across Gauteng. Like Distemper, Parvovirus is fast-acting and deadly, particularly for puppies and dogs that are not up to date on their vaccinations.

She urges all dog owners, especially those with puppies, to understand that if their dogs are not vaccinated, they are at a high risk as this virus can live on surfaces, spread through shared water bowls, be carried into your home on your shoes or clothing, and transmitted in places like grooming parlours, doggy daycares, boarding kennels, and even parks.

What you must do immediately:

• Check your dog’s vaccination card
• Puppies require a full course of vaccinations
• Adult dogs need annual boosters to stay protected
• Book a vet appointment immediately if your pet’s vaccinations are not up to date

For more information, contact the Roodepoort/ Krugersdorp SPCA on 011 672 0448.