Highly contagious virus outbreak affecting dogs in Pretoria
The Tshwane SPCA has issued a warning to all dog owners in Pretoria.
Residents and dog owners in Pretoria West and parts of Pretoria North have been alerted to a serious outbreak of canine distemper.
Owners are urgently advised to vaccinate their dogs against rabies and distemper to protect them and help prevent the spread.
"Please make sure your pets' vaccinations are up to date," said the Tshwane SPCA.
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"We strongly urge you to vaccinate against rabies and distemper."
In a Facebook post, the Tshwane SPCA emphasised that there is no cure for distemper, only supportive treatment, once again stressing the importance of vaccination.
Fortunately, the SPCA is offering a special on vaccinations - the 5-in-1 booster is available for only R350 until 30 September 2025.
What is Distemper?
"Canine distemper is a serious and highly contagious viral disease that affects a dog's lungs, stomach, intestines, brain, eyes, and skin. It spreads through direct contact, coughing, sneezing, and body fluids," writes the Tshwane SPCA.
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Symptoms of Distemper include:
- Fever, eye and nose discharge
- Coughing, vomiting, diarrhoea
- Lethargy, loss of appetite
- In severe cases: seizures, tremors, paralysis, and even death
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Images: Supplied/ WanderVet