Distemper outbreak at SPCA leads to stricter controls
In the wake of the outbreak, foot-baths have been permanently placed at every entry and stricter controls have been implemented.
A strict biosecurity programme has been implemented at the Lower South Coast SPCA to prevent the further spread of canine distemper – a disease which led to 73 dogs being euthanised last week – at the facility.
Speaking to the Herald, Michael Muller, manager of the LSC SPCA, said it had been an extremely difficult decision and one that had not been taken lightly by the management committee and staff.
ALSO READ : BREAKING NEWS: Distemper outbreak – SPCA under quarantine
The SPCA released two statements about the distemper outbreak shortly after an emergency meeting between management and newly-elected committee members on Wednesday last week.
“The committee understood the bigger picture, and if we ignored or didn’t take drastic steps to combat this very dangerous disease immediately it might have spread further and further into our community,” said Mr Muller.
The outbreak can, it seems, possibly be traced back about two months when the SPCA impounded 19 animals on behalf of the police.
“These animals were assessed on intake and did not show outward signs of distemper. However, within a matter of days, it became clear that a number of these animals did indeed have the disease.
“All animals entering the adoption kennel block were then immediately vaccinated against the virus.
“It seemed as if the quick response to the initial contamination was effective, but to our dismay more dogs developed the disease, with two dogs adopted out also showing clinical signs of the illness,” he said.
Distemper is a deadly viral disease which affects the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and central nervous systems in dogs.
It is highly contagious and can spread through the air, and by direct or indirect (utensils, bedding) contact with an infected animal.
In June this year, it was reported that more than 100 dogs in Knysna had had to be put down as the number affected by canine distemper continued to increase.
“We have been 100 percent transparent with the public about our actions and, as a result, we have received tremendous support from the community and are grateful for the many pledges made,” said Mr Muller.
He pointed out that the outbreak had put a huge financial strain on the already cash-strapped SPCA, as the chemical disinfectants used to sterilise the premises were astronomically expensive.
“The society is currently R50 000 in the red and we are hoping the golf day at San Lameer Country Club this Friday (17th) will help us raise the much-needed funds.”
ALSO READ : BREAKING NEWS: 73 dogs euthanised at SPCA due to distemper outbreak
Management and the committee met again on Monday this week, a gathering which Mr Muller described as ’emotional and sad’.
Mr Muller and the SPCA staff, assisted by farmer Scott Kvalsvig and his staff, have been working around the clock since last Wednesday to disinfect the parking lot, clinic and the kennel block which houses strays.
“We have disinfected these area twice and are now moving onto the rest of the SPCA grounds.”
In the wake of the outbreak, foot-baths have been permanently placed at every entry and stricter controls have been implemented.
The public is urged to adhere strictly to the rules when visiting the premises.
The kennel areas will remain quarantined for the disinfection process until September 5. This will affect the boarding, viewing, walking and adoption of animals.
Claiming of stray animals and the veterinary clinic reopened on Monday this week.
Mr Muller explained that as part of the new intake procedures put in place to reduce the risk of this happening again, all stray dogs coming into the facility will be vaccinated upon arrival and a booster vaccine will be administered after 14 days.
Stray dogs will be quarantined for 21 days before being put up for possible adoption.
The cost of the vaccine will be added to the pound and microchip fee if a dog is claimed by its owner.
If your dog has a microchip and you are immediately contactable, the fee will be waived if an up-to-date vaccination certificate can be provided.
All pet owners are strongly urged to vaccinate their dogs against distemper.
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