Following an outbreak of rabies in and around East London, state veterinary services are urging dog owners in the area to visit their mobile clinics to get their pets vaccinated against the deadly disease.

"People are urged to take rabies seriously; they should turn up in great numbers when the departmental officials come to their areas, and in that way they will be able to protect their dogs and themselves from rabies," the province's agriculture department said in a statement on Tuesday.

Rabies was endemic in South Africa and responsible for a number of deaths each year.

"Tragically, those who succumb to the disease did not get correct post-exposure treatment. People who are exposed to dog bites must seek immediate medical attention.

"Following the confirmed outbreak of dog rabies in East London, in Nahoon [and] at the Bonza Bay area, the veterinary services will be conducting a rabies campaign in the area.

"Owners of all pets are requested to bring their animals to be vaccinated for rabies, and the vaccination will be free of charge," the department said.

Sapa