09/06/2026
@❗️IMPORTANT NOTICE❗️Canine Distemper Confirmed in Local Jackal
Many of our followers will remember the young black-backed jackal that we captured at a residence in Steiltes two weeks ago. Unfortunately, test results have confirmed that she was positive for Canine Distemper.
The jackal had reportedly been kept as a "pet" alongside dogs before being found on a nearby property. This serves as an important reminder that wildlife belongs in the wild and that close contact between wildlife and domestic animals can lead to the spread of diseases.
Canine Distemper is a serious and highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs as well as several wildlife species. The virus spreads through direct contact with infected animals, airborne droplets from coughing and sneezing, and contact with bodily fluids such as saliva, nasal discharge, eye discharge, urine, and faeces. It can also be spread through shared food and water bowls, bedding, toys, and other contaminated items.
Signs of Canine Distemper can vary and may include fever, loss of appetite, lethargy, coughing, eye and nasal discharge, vomiting, diarrhoea, and weight loss. In more advanced cases, animals may develop neurological signs such as muscle twitching, seizures, loss of coordination, weakness, or paralysis.
The good news is that Canine Distemper is preventable. Annual vaccination with the 5-in-1 vaccine is the most effective way to protect your dog from this potentially fatal disease. We encourage all pet owners to take a moment to check their dogs' vaccination records and ensure that they are up to date. If a dog shows any of the above symptoms, immediate testing is vital.
We would also like to remind residents that if you find wildlife on your property, especially young, injured, or unusually tame animals, please contact the SPCA as soon as possible. Early intervention allows us to assess the situation, ensure the animal receives appropriate care, and take the necessary precautions to protect other animals from potential disease transmission.
Thank you to the community for your continued support and cooperation. By staying informed and keeping our pets vaccinated, we can help protect both our domestic animals and our precious wildlife
