HARARE - Private veterinary fees have recently shot up, according to statistics released this week.The figures were provided by private veterinarians, and indicate that families are forking out at least US$50 in veterinary fees per month, per animal. The annual treatment for rabies has increased from US$10 to US$50 in the past year and it now costs US$50 to have a dog treated for fleas.
A Bulawayo-based veterinary surgeon, Moffart Samukange, said the rains had increased the likelihood of pets catching diseases. More rain means more ticks and fleas, and, as a result, more infections to animals. Since we recorded the first rains last month we have witnessed a high prevalence of diseases such as distemper, biliary and hepatitis, said Samukange.