Sightings of sick and sick raccoons are on the rise in Carrollton, and the city's Department of Animal Services is warning pet owners to take precautions to prevent the spread of canine distemper.
Carrollton Animal Services said most local calls come from the north and west parts of the city.
Although the disease is not contagious to humans, raccoons can easily transmit canine distemper virus to pets through the environment or through airborne transmission such as sneezing or coughing, CAS reports.
CAS advised pet owners to keep an eye on their animals and avoid contact with raccoons.
Canine distemper virus affects both the respiratory and nervous systems of dogs, ferrets, and raccoons and has a high mortality rate.
According to CAS, symptoms to watch for in raccoons include fever, convulsions, and seizures, as well as appearing weak and lethargic, and appearing to lack fear of humans.
Be sure to close trash cans and garbage bags, take pet food and water bowls from outside, and be careful not to draw raccoons into residential areas. CAS advises dogs to be kept on short leashes when walking and to avoid approaching wild animals.
Dogs that have not been vaccinated against distemper virus are most susceptible. There is no cure for distemper, but it can be avoided with distemper/parvovirus vaccination.
Free vaccination clinics sponsored by CAS will be held in February and March at the Carrollton Animal Services and Adoption Center, 2247 Sandy Lake Road.
On Sunday, February 18th, a low-cost drive-through vaccination clinic will be held in conjunction with Operation Kindness.
In partnership with the Texas Animal Protection Federation, CAS will host a $5 rabies vaccination event on Saturday, March 16, where distemper vaccines will also be provided.
Wildlife sightings are common during the day, but if you see a sick or disoriented animal, please report it to CAS by calling 972-466-3420.
For more information about canine distemper, visit cityofcarrollton.com/animalservices.
