VACCINATING your pets against rabies – fatal disease is not a choice but a legal requirement in terms of the Animal Diseases Act 1984.
All dogs and cats must be vaccinated at the age of three months, with a second vaccination between one and nine months and annually thereafter. Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL) urges all pet owners to take the threat of rabies very seriously. By not vaccinating your pet, you are increasing the risk to your family and others in the event of being bitten by a rabid animal. In the week leading up to World Rabies Day – September 28, AACL will focus their anti-rabies vaccination campaign on the pets seen during outreach clinics.
Spring has sprung
A time of new growth, fragrant flowers and generally a lovely season for all. It is also, unfortunately, a season which sees the emergence of ticks and fleas.
Ticks carry a parasite known as Babesia in their salivary glands, which leads to the development of tick bite fever, a very serious disease which requires immediate veterinary intervention. Fleas can cause allergies and discomfort and even infest your home. To ensure your pets are kept healthy it is important to treat them for these external parasites regularly. Your local veterinary practice will be able to supply you with the most effective products.
Hot on the heels of Spring, comes Summer
Summer is a time of heat waves and loud and frightening thunderstorms. In the case of heat waves, always ensure that your pet has access to shade and a cool place with plenty of fresh drinking water available.
Should they bolt and escape the property during a particularly violent thunderstorm, or there could have been loud fireworks discharged, make sure in advance that they always carry proper identification. Microchipping is the preferred form of identification for pets and this procedure can be performed at any veterinary clinic or hospital. If your pet already has a microchip, make sure that your details are up to date with the relevant company. It is also good to have your contact details on a dog tag around your pet’s neck so that you can be contacted immediately if your pet is lost or stolen.
Fireworks: Remember these dates
Diwali – October 19
Guy Fawkes – November 5
New Year’s Eve – December 31
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