The canine distemper outbreak continues to affect several Overstrand communities. Overstrand Municipality, together with local businesses and animal welfare organisations, is maintaining a co-ordinated response.
The respective animal welfare societies – Hermanus Animal Welfare Society (HAWS), Kleinmond Animal Welfare Society (KAWS), and the Birkenhead Animal Rescue Centre (BARC) – have been instrumental in managing stray dog impoundments in response to the outbreak. To date, the following impoundments have been recorded:
- Gansbaai: 36 impoundments
- Hermanus: 122 impoundments
- Kleinmond: 31 impoundments
About Canine Distemper
Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of dogs. Early symptoms include a runny nose, watery eyes, and a sore throat.
There are two key ways to prevent canine distemper:
• Vaccination: The most effective protection is vaccination from as early as six weeks old. Early vaccination helps avoid unnecessary suffering and protects the broader dog population.
• Removal of Infected Animals: Removing diseased animals from the population is essential to prevent further spread.
Municipal Law Enforcement officers, with support from HAWS, KAWS, and BARC, continue to collect stray, sick, and unwanted dogs in the affected communities. Capture cages have also been placed at local transfer stations to assist with the safe collection of roaming animals.
Sick dogs, as well as those that owners can no longer care for, often due to financial or food challenges, are being collected and cared for as part of this joint operation.
Residents who encounter sick, stray, or unwanted dogs, or who require assistance, are urged to contact the Overstrand Municipal Law Enforcement Control Room (24/7) on 028 313 8996.
Overstrand Municipality sincerely thanks the animal welfare organisations and local businesses for their continued cooperation and support in helping to control the outbreak.
