SPCA creates awareness of deadly rabies virus
Protect yourself, your loved ones and your furry friends from this fatal virus.
Amanzimtoti SPCA has provided some informative tips to help pet owners identify the symptoms of rabies and learn how to control the virus.
READ:
- Umgababa woman survives close encounter with rabies
- Toti SPCA answers call for state injections after rabies outbreak
What is rabies?
Rabies is a disease that affects the brain and leads to the death of the dog or person involved.
Symptoms may vary widely and include:
- Behavioural changes
- Aggression
- Salivation
- Paralysis
Spreading of the disease:
The virus occurs in great numbers in the saliva of rabid animals.
How to control rabies:
- Vaccination is the only protection.
- Vaccinate your dogs and cats. Encourage other people to have their pets vaccinated too.
- Do not allow your pet to roam the streets.
- Report all suspect cases to your nearest vet, SPCA or state vet.
Rabies can affect all animals. Never touch or caress a strange or injured animal, or one that appears to be sick.
If you get bitten:
- Thoroughly disinfect the wound.
- Immediately consult a medical doctor or clinic.
- Contact your nearest state veterinarian or animal health technician in your area.
DID YOU KNOW?
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