CAPE TOWN – The Animal Rescue Organisation (ARO) is urgently calling on pet owners to take advantage of heavily discounted vaccinations as a preventable disease continues to claim the lives of dogs across Cape Town communities.
Since Thursday 10 December, ARO has been running a festive vaccination special, offering life-saving vaccinations for just R60 – a significant reduction from the normal price of R180. Each vaccination also comes with a free 1,5kg bag of dog food.
ARO, originally known as the Voluntary Animal Rescue Organisation (VAR), was established in 1986 to combat the neglect and abuse of animals in the Old Crossroads area.
In the final quarter of last year alone, ARO treated 97 parvovirus cases – and these represent only the dogs that made it to the hospital for treatment.
“Parvo is a fast-acting, devastating disease with low chances of survival, and treatment is extremely expensive,” explains Melissa van Wyk, Hospital Manager at ARO.
The virus presents an ongoing threat to the community, as it can survive in soil for up to six months, placing new puppies at constant risk of infection and death.
So far, 114 dogs have received vaccinations through the special programme, but ARO aims to reach 500 dogs.
“Vaccination is the only reliable protection. Parvo causes severe, often sudden illness and can be rapidly fatal, particularly in puppies.
“Treatment can only support the body while it fights the virus — there is no cure. By vaccinating your dog, you are not only protecting your own pet, but also helping to break the cycle of infection, reduce suffering, and save lives across the entire animal community.
We still have vaccines left at this lower price, and we urge people to come forward now,” Van Wyk emphasised. The importance of complete vaccination cannot be overstated.
Puppies are particularly vulnerable because their immune systems are still developing, requiring three vaccinations before 16 weeks of age to be fully protected.
Addressing owner concerns
ARO acknowledges that some pet owners may hesitate due to the compulsory sterilisation requirement, but this exists for animal protection. As a City of Cape Town by-law requiring sterilisation by six months of age, it helps prevent litters being born into active Parvo outbreaks – situations that often end in heartbreak.
“Fully vaccinating a dog is the only effective protection against Parvo,” Van Wyk stressed. “Vaccinating and sterilising pets save lives.”
With Parvovirus being completely preventable through vaccination, ARO’s message is clear: don’t wait until it’s too late.
The combination of discounted pricing and the devastating alternative makes this campaign crucial for pet owners. Contact ARO at 021 396 5511, 078 777 0406, or email aro@animalrescue.org.za to book appointments while discounted vaccines remain available.
. For more information about ARO, visit their website at https://www.animalrescue.org.za
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