The Animal Welfare Society of SA is seeing a rise in Distemper cases and they are encouraging people to get their dogs vaccinated or boosted.
South Africa (09 December 2021) – Cases of rabies and canine distemper are on the rise in South Africa and several animal welfare organisations are encouraging people to get their animals vaccinated to help curb the problem.
The Animal Welfare Society of SA (AWS), have taken to Facebook to raise awareness about an outbreak of Distemper in their surrounding areas.
“The number of puppies and dogs testing positive for this vaccine preventable virus is on the rise (again) and it is incumbent on all dog owners to help us flatten the curve (a term that has become all too familiar over the recent past) by vaccinating their pets.
One would be forgiven for asking why the sudden increase and we strongly suspect this is due to pet owners allegedly making use of veterinary quacks who purportedly offer suspect vaccines for a discounted price.
Canine Distemper (or Hondesiekte) is spread through direct contact or airborne exposure rather like the common cold in humans.
When an infected dog coughs, sneezes or barks, they release contaminated droplets into the environment infecting nearby animals and surfaces like food and water bowls.”
They shared a break down of what the symptoms of the virus are as well as what ages to get your pets vaccinated against the virus. Dogs should be vaccinated as puppies from 6 to 8 weeks and adults, should get boosters each year.
Typical symptoms include:
- High fever.
- Eye inflammation.
- Eye or nose discharge.
- Laboured breathing and coughing.
- Vomiting.
- Diarrhoea.
- Lethargy.
- Hardening of nose or footpads.
If you are able to support an animal welfare organisation close to you heart, do so this festive season. AWS encourage anyone wanting to get their dog vaccinated to visit their branch in Phillipi. You do not need to make an appointment.
To find out more please call 021 692 2626 and ask for either Shannon or Savannah.
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