Vaccinate pets against rabies
Scottburgh Veterinary Clinic also confirmed a positive case involving a stray dog in Pennington and requested locals to be careful when picking up strays.
Nicky Koekemoer of 4 Paws and a Tale Rescue has confirmed that there has been a number of positive rabies cases in the mid-South Coast lately.
She said there were four positive cases in Craigieburn, with four more possible cases.
Other areas with positive cases include New Haven, Scottburgh, Kelso and Amandawe.
Reports also indicate that a rabid dog in Amandawe bit several residents recently.
“We are desperately pleading with people to vaccinate their animals and seek immediate medical attention if they have any interaction with a suspected rabid animal,” said Koekemoer.
“People must insist on rabies treatment, even if the medical staff are unwilling because there is a lot of misinformation around rabies. It is highly contagious, so even if a person is not bitten, the saliva can get into an open wound and infect the individual.”
Koekemoer vaccinated 20 street dogs last week, and calls on authorities to get vaccination campaigns underway as a matter of urgency.
She also informs residents that even animals kept in a fenced property can come into contact with infected, wandering animals along the boundary line, so it is crucial vaccinations are up to date.
Scottburgh Veterinary Clinic also confirmed a positive case involving a stray dog in Pennington and requested locals to be careful when picking up strays.
Due to the rising infections, Scottburgh Veterinary Clinic will be offering free rabies vaccinations for April. Bookings are essential and can be done by contacting 039 9761418.
“We urge members of the public to ensure that their pets are up to date with vaccinations,” said Lynette Cox from the clinic.
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