The KZN department of agriculture and rural development is urgently searching for an individual or individuals who recently dropped off a puppy at the Pietermaritzburg SPCA. The brown tan puppy has tested positive for rabies, prompting immediate medical concern for those who may have come into contact with it.
Officials at the SPCA reported that the puppy displayed aggressive behaviour and may have bitten someone before being surrendered. This development has raised alarm within the community and among health authorities.
The MEC, Thembeni KaMadlopha-Mthethwa, has initiated a vaccination and awareness campaign in the Imbali township and surrounding areas of Pietermaritzburg to contain the potential spread of the disease.
In the last three months, the province has recorded 15 confirmed rabies cases, with five originating in Pietermaritzburg. This marks a concerning shift from traditional coastal hotspots like eThekwini, Ugu, and Ilembe districts.
KaMadlopha-Mthethwa stressed the importance of responsible pet ownership and urged all pet owners in Midlands, Pietermaritzburg, and neighbouring areas to ensure their animals are vaccinated at government or private facilities.
“We are uncertain about the factors driving the inland movement of rabies, but we are intensifying awareness efforts and encouraging vaccination among pet owners,” said KaMadlopha-Mthethwa.
“Finding the individual who brought the rabid puppy to the SPCA is crucial. Rabies is a fatal disease, but timely medical intervention can prevent its spread and save lives.”
The department has called upon community leaders to assist in locating the person responsible, emphasising the urgency of the situation.
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