As the summer holidays draw near, the South African Veterinary Association is reminding beachgoers to keep a safe distance from Cape fur seals. These playful, whiskered locals are a beloved part of our coastline, but getting too close can be risky for both humans and animals.
Recently, there have been reports of Cape fur seals showing unusual aggression linked to positive rabies cases. Beyond rabies, seals can carry other diseases that spread to people — and those impressive teeth can deliver a serious bite.
So, while it’s tempting to snap that perfect selfie or offer a closer look, the safest (and kindest) way to enjoy these ocean icons is from a respectful distance. Keep your holiday happy — and wildlife healthy — by watching, not touching.
Admire, don’t approach
This holiday season, remember that Cape fur seals may be adorable, but getting too close can be dangerous — and even illegal. Under South Africa’s National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) and its associated Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) Regulations, it’s an offence to disturb seals without a permit. That means no petting, touching, or attempting to interact, as this disrupts the animal’s natural behaviour and can expose you to serious risks like bites, scratches, infections, or disease.
Even if you come across a seal pup on the beach, don’t step in. What might look like an abandoned baby is usually just resting while its mother is nearby. Instead, contact the relevant authorities — they are trained and equipped to safely handle marine animals in distress.
Seals often haul out on beaches to rest, but if one appears injured, aggressive, or disoriented, it may be showing signs of illness such as rabies, which is fatal to both humans and unvaccinated animals. Rabies can spread through bites, scratches, or contact with saliva.
Whether you are walking your dog, swimming, or surfing, always keep your distance from seals — alive or dead. If you spot one behaving oddly or in distress, alert lifeguards or your local municipal authorities immediately.
SAVA President warns
Weighing in on the issue, Dr. Ziyanda Majokweni, President of the South African Veterinary Association (SAVA), had this to say:
“The recent confirmation of rabies in Cape fur seals is a stark reminder of the vigilance required when humans and wildlife share the same space. By keeping a safe distance from seals, avoiding contact with unfamiliar animals, and ensuring dogs and cats are vaccinated, we can help prevent the spread of this deadly disease and protect both human and animal health during the busy holiday season,” said Dr Ziyanda.
In case of a seal bite/scratch/lick:
- If a seal bites/scratches someone in the water, the beach will be closed immediately, marked by the activation of a shark siren and the raising of a shark flag, if available.
- Shark spotters or lifeguards will promptly notify CapeNature and the State Veterinarian, who will provide guidance on the necessary action. Municipal Disaster Management and appropriate Marine Stranding Networks will also be informed.
- Lifeguards or first responders will monitor and track the seal’s movements.
- The beach will only reopen after the seal has been safely removed or has vacated the area.
- Anyone bitten/scratched or licked by a suspect rabid seal should seek urgent medical care at the nearest hospital. At the scene, the wound must be thoroughly washed with soap and water for 10-15 minutes. Then, the person must be taken to the nearest hospital to receive post-exposure prophylactic treatment against rabies. The patient needs to inform the hospital personnel that the bite/scratch/ lick is from a sea that may be rabid.
If your pet encounters a Seal
If your dog or cat is bitten or scratched by a seal, contact your local state veterinarian immediately. Provide full details of the incident, including the type of wound, any treatment already given, and your pet’s vaccination history.
Treat your pet’s wounds using the same cleaning and care protocols as you would for humans. Most importantly, ensure your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations — the only effective protection against this deadly disease. In South Africa, vaccinating all dogs and cats against rabies is not just recommended, it’s the law.
For more information, visit the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD): https://www.nicd.ac.za/diseases-a-z-index/rabies/
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