Rabies Alert: Keep Dogs Leashed on Overstrand Beaches

As rabies continues to impact seals along our coastline, it's essential for dog owners to keep their pets on a leash when visiting the beach. 

Seals can travel long distances in the sea, making all coastal areas a potential risk. While seals are a common sight along the shoreline and encountering seal carcasses is normal, these carcasses are not necessarily related to rabies. 

However, we must be aware of the risk, and for now, all dogs must be kept on a leash on Overstrand beaches.

Over the summer holidays, the Overstrand Municipality will strictly enforce its by-law requiring all dogs to be kept on a leash in public spaces, including beaches, to ensure everyone's safety. Dogs found off-leash may be fined or impounded. Please also remember to bring bags to clean up after your dog, helping to keep our beaches clean for everyone to enjoy.

Rabies Safety for Dogs:

Rabies can be transmitted by infected seals through bites, or if dogs touch seal carcasses or scavenge from them. To minimise the risk, always keep your dog under control and on a leash, especially where seals are present. 

Never touch or handle a dead seal, and avoid getting too close to any live seals that may be resting on the beach. 

Rabies is preventable with prompt medical care, so be sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations.

If you notice a seal displaying unusual behavior, please record a video and note the location. Report any incidents of seal bites or attacks to your local vet or the Overstrand Municipality’s Environmental Management Section at 028 316 3724 (office hours) or the Fire & Rescue Emergency Control Room at 028 312 2400 (after hours). You can also contact the state veterinarian through CapeNature Walker Bay at 083 236 2924 or via email at estuaries@capenature.co.za.

To report any seal sightings, whether healthy or ill, use the iNaturalist website.

Rabies Vaccination: 

We encourage all pet owners in the Overstrand area to ensure their dogs are vaccinated against rabies. Visit your local veterinarian or animal welfare organisation to confirm your pet’s vaccinations are up to date.

By taking these precautions, we can help protect both our pets and the local wildlife.

Issued by:
Overstrand Municipal Manager, Dean O’Neill