The Springs SPCA urges dog owners to vaccinate their pets against parvovirus and distemper. According to the SPCA, there is an increase in cases across the province.

Local SPCA manager Annecia le Roux told the Springs Advertiser that they have been admitting an average of one or two parvo cases each week, higher than in previous years.

Despite distemper cases being less common, she said there has already been one suspected case, with another reported on the same property.

She added that this reflects a concerning increase in preventable diseases, highlighting the urgent need for pet owners to vaccinate their dogs.

Le Roux said the most common reasons owners give for not vaccinating their pets include financial challenges, transport difficulties, and lack of awareness. She also said that many owners still mistakenly believe vaccinations are optional rather than essential.

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“To combat this, the organisation is strengthening its education efforts by stressing that vaccines are affordable, effective, and lifesaving,” said the manager.

She also said that with limited funds, each sick animal brought to the shelter is carefully assessed. Where possible, treatment and supportive care are provided.

She explained that in severe cases where suffering cannot be alleviated, humane euthanasia is sometimes the only option.

Le Roux shared such decisions are never easy, but added that the welfare of the animal must always come first.

She said, “All adoption-ready dogs are vaccinated to safeguard their health and prevent further outbreaks within the kennels.”

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Le Roux said that to support responsible ownership, the Springs SPCA will soon launch an eight-week outreach programme in Kwa-Thema, with final logistics being confirmed.

She added that the goal of the outreach is to make essential services accessible to families who may otherwise struggle to reach or afford them.

Le Roux highlighted that vaccinations are the most effective way to prevent the spread of deadly diseases such as parvo and distemper. Vaccinations are the most effective way to prevent deadly diseases such as parvo and distemper.

“They also safeguard the wider pet community from outbreaks. Prevention is always better than cure. By vaccinating, you give your pet the best chance at a long, healthy life,” Le Rouw said.

Le Roux shared the symptoms of parvovirus:
• Severe vomiting
• Bloody or foul-smelling diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or extreme weakness
• Fever or low body temperature

Symptoms of distemper
• Runny nose and eyes (discharge)
• Coughing and difficulty breathing
• Vomiting and diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or weakness
• Muscle twitches, seizures, or paralysis
• Thickened paw pads (‘hard pad disease’)