15/05/2026
⚠️ DISTEMPER – URGENT WARNING TO ALL DOG OWNERS ⚠️
The Lower South Coast SPCA has recently seen an increase in the number of dogs affected by this deadly and highly contagious disease.
We have received numerous cases of sick dogs — some in the early stages and others already in the final stages of this serious viral disease. Most of these cases have been reported in the Gamalakhe and surrounding areas.
Distemper spreads through the air and can also be transmitted through direct or indirect contact with an infected animal (for example through utensils, bedding, food bowls, or water bowls).
The disease attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, urogenital, and nervous systems. Dogs that are not vaccinated are at particularly high risk of contracting the disease if they come into contact with an infected animal.
❗ We strongly urge all dog owners to ensure that their pets’ vaccinations are up to date ❗
Symptoms of Distemper include:
⚠️ Fever
⚠️ Listlessness
⚠️ Tiredness or weakness
⚠️ Vomiting and diarrhoea
⚠️ Discharge from the eyes and nose
⚠️ Coughing
⚠️ Muscle tremors of the body and head
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, please take it to your nearest veterinarian immediately, or contact the SPCA Emergency Line on 083 222 6355 for assistance.
💉 In light of this, the Lower South Coast SPCA will be holding two Vaccination Drives in early June 2026 💉
📌Further notices and dates will be posted on our page.
