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Nokusa Masuku Chronicle Reporter
THE Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) says it is concerned by the increasing number of people being bitten by dogs in Bulawayo, with statistics indicating that about twenty cases are reported each month. SPCA animal inspector Dumisani Sibanda said the latest statistics show that there were 153 cases that were reported from January to June this year, amid fears that in the event of a rabies outbreak, the disease could spread quickly.

“In the past six month there’ve been 153 reported cases of residents bitten by dogs. This can be estimated to about 20 cases a month which is worrying,” said Sibanda. He said that people should not let their dogs roam the streets but keep them within their properties as stipulated by council by-laws.

“Section 12 of the council by-laws clearly states that dogs should not be allowed to stray out of the owner’s property. We don’t want people to confine their dogs but to ensure that they remain within their properties,” he added. Dr Anele Dube, a veterinary doctor at the SPCA, also revealed that a dog tested positive for rabies in New Luveve last week.

She said they would put down the dog to prevent the disease from spreading. “Dogs that are found with rabies are put down to prevent rabies from spreading to people and other animals,” said Dr Dube. “All dog owners should ensure that their dogs are vaccinated.  If anyone is bitten by a suspicious dog, they should seek medical attention soon after they’re bitten.”

Rabbies is a viral disease that affects warm blooded animals and humans.