Boksburg SPCA will do its part in vaccinating animals against rabies in commemoration of World Rabies Day on September 28.
The theme this year is ‘Breaking Rabies Boundaries’.
Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it is a disease people can get from animals.
The virus affects the brain and causes death. It is shed in saliva and spread by the bite of an infected animal. In South Africa, people are usually infected by dogs, but cats, mongooses, jackals and other wild animals can also infect humans.
SPCA manager Vicky Finnemore said the society will vaccinate as many animals as possible in informal settlements this month.
“How many we can vaccinate will depend on the amount of vaccine we get from the state vet. We are, however, planning a big vaccination drive on Heritage Day (September 24),” she explained.
Boksburg Advertiser tagged along to the society’s outreach programme in Delmore Gardens on September 10, where residents lined up to have their animals vaccinated for rabies.
One pet owner, Louis Turner, thanked the society for vaccinating his dog, Patches.
“I am over the moon that my dog is vaccinated. I would not have been able to do it without the SPCA’s assistance.”
Zethan Madumbo said he feels more at ease now that his dog, Mbaqu, has been vaccinated against rabies.
“It helps to know that my dog is protected against rabies. I appreciate what the SPCA is doing for the community.”
Finnemore reiterated it was important for animals to be vaccinated.
“Rabies is not that common, but it is out there. At least you know the vaccine will protect your animal should there be a rabies case in Boksburg. The law also prescribes domestic animals to be vaccinated against the disease.”
The SPCA needs volunteers to assist during outreach days.
For more information, phone 011 916 5906/7.
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