World Rabies Day
International Rabies day is celebrated throughout the world on September 28 to promote awareness and unite against the deadly disease for all mammals including humans.
JOHANNESBURG: The event was started by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control and this year’s theme is “Understand it to defeat it.”
Dr L. Lunn a veterinarian at the JSPCA says: “Rabies is always fatal to unvaccinated animals. The virus is found in the saliva of rabid animals and is usually transmitted via bite. The virus multiplies in the tissue of the animal and travels along the nerves to the brain. This is why animals with rabies, show behavioural changes.”
“Rabies can be prevented by vaccination and this is in fact required by law. If you suspect that your pet has rabies contact your local veterinarian immediately. If you suspect that an animal that has bitten you has rabies, wash the wound repeatedly and thoroughly with running water and a disinfectant (soap if no disinfectant is available). Then contact a doctor immediately.”
To protect you and your family have your pet vaccinated against rabies. Also ensure that you obtain and do not lose the vaccination certificate. For more information about vaccinating your animal against rabies, please talk to your local veterinarian or give our team a call at the below details.
Johannesburg SPCA.
Tel: 011 681 3600.
Fax: 011 681 3660.
E-mail: jhbspca@jhbspca.co.za
24 hour duty inspector: 083 604 1172.
