Officials are investigating one confirmed case of rabies and a second suspected case in the Capri community on the Cape Peninsula. Both dogs were from the same household and, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA in liaison with the State Vet and other authorities are offering assistance via proactive vaccination of animals in the area and wherever else necessary to prevent the spread of this deadly disease and to ensure the safety and well-being of both animals and the community.
Rabies is a viral and highly fatal disease that is mostly transmitted from animals to humans.
It is transmitted mainly via a bite from an already infected animal, but exposure may also occur through contamination of broken skin or mucous membranes with saliva from an infected animal.
Vaccination of pets is the most effective way of protecting humans and animals from exposure to this potentially deadly virus.
Rabies vaccinations will be administered FREE OF CHARGE to the public.
Visit the SPCA onsite animal hospital in Grassy Park or any of their mobile clinics located within communities to make sure your pets’ vaccinations are up to date.
Vaccination of dogs and cats against rabies is compulsory in South Africa in accordance with the Animal Diseases Act, Act 35 of 1984. All dogs and cats must receive their rabies vaccination at 3 months of age, usually in conjunction with or at the same time as the normal 5-in-1 vaccine.
A follow-up rabies vaccination is due within one year and thereafter every three years. Rabies prevention starts with pet owners.
Please protect yourself, your pet, and your community by getting your animals vaccinated.