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EARLY this month, a cross breed puppy of approximately 12 weeks old was brought into the Kloof and Highway SPCA reception by a kind member of public who had found it in her garden in Wyebank. The puppy was brought in a box and the reception staff immediately noticed that there was something wrong with it. When examined, the puppy was observed to have neurological issues and was extremely vocal.
The decision was immediately made to humanly euthanise the puppy, and it was sent to the state vet for Rabies testing. Once the test was conducted, a positive rabies result was confirmed. This is the 13th positive rabies result this year at the Kloof and Highway SPCA.
This puppy was suffering and could have infected other animals and people with the rabies virus; we are so grateful to the lady and her son who rushed the puppy to our SPCA and saved it from further suffering.
When the staff received the positive rabies result, the member of public was immediately contacted and informed of the seriousness of the situation. She also confirmed that five people had been in contact with the puppy before it was brought into the Kloof and Highway SPCA.
The Kloof and Highway SPCA are urging members of public to make sure their pets are vaccinated against rabies as well as exercise caution when approaching stray animals.
“If you find a stray animal you are not familiar with, only approach if it is safe to do so and absolutely necessary. In the event of being bitten or scratched, immediately wash the area very well and flush under running water and immediately seek medical attention.
“If you are bitten or scratched by and animal with no proof of vaccination, you will be required to go for a costly course of ’rabies vaccinations treatment.
“Rabies is fatal and the threat of it should not be taken lightly. We strongly advise against keeping any stray animals with the rising threat of Rabies,” said Brigitte Ferguson of the SPCA.
For any animal related emergencies during office hours please contact us at 031 764 1212. For after hours emergencies contact our emergency line at 073 335 9322.
— Supplied.
