#WorldRabiesDay and the people making Empangeni safer

Your pet is your pride and joy. There's nothing better than coming home after a long day and seeing their furry face. Or their gentle headbutts, delightful tail wags and warm licks. It's tough to decide what you love best! It's why their health will always be a priority. 

28 September marks World Rabies Day. This is one of the most deadliest pet diseases. The good news? It's incredibly easy to prevent. Read on to learn more about it and how living in Empangeni could be the ticket to your pet's well-being. 

What is rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system. It is nearly always spread by an infected animal bite or scratch. If your furbaby has rabies, the symptoms include fever, seizures, paralysis, hydrophobia and unusual shyness or aggression. 

By keeping your pets up to date with their vaccinations, you can protect them and prevent transmissions to your family and other people. 

What is World Rabies Day?

This day was started in 2007 by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control. It aims to raise awareness for rabies awareness and encourages everyone to take action to help eliminate it. World Rabies Day is an opportunity for individuals, communities, NGOs and the government to unite, connect and share their work.

The foundation of rabies control lies in vaccination. To spotlight the treatment, this year's theme is "Rabies: Vaccinate to Eliminate". It's a reminder to keep your pet vaccinated and seek the post-exposure prophylaxis vaccine if you're bitten or scratched. 

Prevention in Empangeni

Nearly 50 positive rabies cases in dogs have already been recorded in KZN this year. However, people in Empangeni are working tirelessly to take a bite out of rabies. 

Empangeni SPCA: According to Debra Cross, the SPCA's Inspector/Kennel Manager, they offer free vaccinations to cats and dogs. As a non-profit organisation, donations are welcomed. 

Their main vaccination point is a dip tank on the Empangeni SPCA property. Locals can also bring their dogs for free dipping which controls ticks and fleas on their dogs. The SPCA travel out into nearby rural areas doing rabies outreach clinics and rabies injections for private individuals who request their assistance. They vaccinate 300 dogs on average per month against rabies. 

Zululand Veterinary Hospital: The hospital has a strong legacy of rabies prevention. In a Zululand Observer article, one of their veterinarians urged members of the public to get their animals vaccinated. Zululand Veterinary Hospital is well established and equipped to attend to pet needs. It has dedicated and trained staff that ensures a pleasant visit.  

Empangeni Veterinary Hospital: Dr Geoffrey Francois Fourie, Veterinary Surgeon, has not seen any cases of rabies at his practice. However, he does encourage pet owners to be on the lookout for changes in behaviour and neurological symptoms like seizures. As rabid pets are euthanised, he advises pet owners to be on top of vaccinations.

Pet-friendly living in Empangeni

Besides the healthcare available, Empangeni is ideal for you and your pet. The area has a warm and temperate climate which makes walks and playtime a pleasure. There are pet shops like Empangeni Pets. You also have groomers like Mutts and Mongrels and Wiggle Butt that can keep your pet looking pretty. Empangeni Dog Club offers classes in obedience, agility, flyball, tracking and puppy training. There's even a pet cemetery where you can put your pet to rest with the dignity he or she deserves. 

Your pet is a handful but you couldn't imagine a world without them. With its anti-rabies strategies, beautiful weather and pet-pro amenities, you have the perfect place to live. Trust Century 21 to find a home that everyone will find 'pawesome'. View our Empangeni listings here and call us today.