Temporary precautionary measures placed to limit dog-seal interaction on Plett beaches
The Plett Tourism Association would like to inform our visitors and resident that, as a precautionary measure, Bitou Municipality has amended the bylaw regarding dogs on beaches to ensure that dogs remain leashed at all times to minimise possible interaction with seals on Plett beaches due to the recent discovery of rabies in the seal populations along the Western Cape coastal areas.
Both residents and visitors are encouraged to observe the safety measures that have been put in place.Our intent is for guests and residents to make informed decisions and to observe mindful tourism practices that balance the enjoyment of our natural assets with the well-being of local ecosystems and wildlife.
Dr. Gwen Penry is a Plett representative with the national and regional response network regarding the seal-rabies issue. We share her brief and recommendations below to assist with creating awareness about the issue and to remind our guests and residents to take the necessary precautions.
“Rabies is a controlled disease, meaning the government has to take action to manage spread among populations and minimise transfer to humans. It is a legal requirement to vaccinate your pets against rabies and ensure that they receive regular boosters.
Local response to the situation is outlined below:
- Community programs to vaccinate strays are actively in place.
- The Bitou Municipality was involved in the National Rabies-Response workshop in July and have already put systems in place for quick and safe seal carcass removals.
- Dogs on leashes on all Plettenberg Bay beaches is a sensible decision, however unpopular, especially with season approaching. This will likely be revised in the future but for the next few months please respect this decision, it will have been made on the advice and recommendations of national and district governments, vets, and other experts working on this developing situation. The decision was made not just to prevent interaction with carcasses, but also with live seals ashore (dogs are often seen approaching seals ashore).
We are coming into seal breeding and pupping season and are expecting more live and dead seals ashore over the summer months. Everyone needs to play their part in helping to minimise the spread.”
As with the Shark Spotters, Plett Tourism and Bitou Municipality are committed to taking actions to ensure that both residents and visitors are able to enjoy a safe environment and have access to information to be able to make informed decisions.
Local stakeholders that are actively involved include; Plett Shark Spotters, Bitou lifeguards, NSRI, first responders, local doctors, stranding networks, marine tourism companies, law enforcement, Cape Nature, SANParks, Bitou Municipality and local conservation NGOs have all been briefed on how to identify suspect rabid seals and the quickest and most effective response for anyone bitten.
If you notice a seal ashore (live or dead) on any of our beaches please report (WhatsApp is best) it to the Plett Stranding Network 079 463 4837, accompanied by a photo or video and location.
Please note: seals sometimes come ashore away from the colony to rest, this is perfectly normal behaviour, please give them space, they will eventually return to sea.
