Can a Dog Survive a Bite From a Rabid Raccoon?

Posted on April 29, 2020 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

Rabies is a very dangerous, and most often lethal, to mammals who contract the virus. The animals that are common carriers of the disease are raccoons, bats, foxes, and skunks. When it comes to domesticated dogs, the most vulnerable to contracting the virus are the ones that have not been properly vaccinated for it. Rabies vaccines are vital and mandatory by law. All dogs should be vaccinated for the virus after three months of age. Non-vaccinated pets, especially those that are permitted to roam free through the yard, are the most at-risk for contracting the virus.

Continue reading to learn some information about what to do if your dog is bitten by a rabid animal, and how likely they are to survive the attack.

Louisville Raccoon Removal and Control 502-553-7622

Vaccinated Dogs

If a dog has been properly vaccinated, meaning on a routine basis recommended by a licensed veterinarian, there is a better chance of survival if they are bit by a rabid raccoon. As soon as a pet owner is aware that their dog has been scratched or bitten by a rabid animal, they must immediately take it into an emergency pet hospital so that it can be administered a Rabies booster shot. From there, they must be isolated and kept under observation for any signs of the virus for 45 days.

Unfortunately, a Rabies vaccine is not a 100% full-proof against the virus. It is still possible for the dog to contract Rabies and show signs and symptoms 2 to 8 weeks after the attack, even if they are up-to-date with all their shots; but keep in mind this is very unlikely. The chances of a properly-vaccinated dog contracting Rabies is much less than for a pet without any previous vaccinations. For dogs with expired vaccinations, procedures are determined on a case-by-case basis.

Non-Vaccinated Dogs

It is a much sadder story for dogs that have not received routine Rabies vaccinations. If bitten or scratched by a rabid animal, an non-vaccinated dog must be euthanized. If the owner of the dog refuses to have their pet euthanized, the state law requires the dog to be quarantined and observed for 6 months, receiving a vaccination one month prior to being released.

However, if symptoms develop, there is no chance for survival and the pet must be put down. It general takes anywhere from one to eight weeks for symptoms to show. If the animal that bit the dog can be caught, and it ends up testing negative for Rabies, the bitten dog can be put in observation and then given a vaccine.

Who to Call for Louisville Raccoon Control

Call our expert wildlife rescue operators today at 502-553-7622 for professional Louisville raccoon control services today. We offer a wide range of services for residential and commercial properties, including raccoon removal, control, prevention, proofing, cleanup, attic restorations, and more. Call 502-553-7622 to request a free estimate or information about Louisville raccoon control, today.

Raccoons Can Spread These 3 Zoonotic Diseases

Posted on April 16, 2020 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

Any disease that can be transferred from animal to human is a zoonotic disease, or zoonosis. The most common animals that are known to carry and spread zoonosis include skunks, bats, opossum, fox, coyote, and the most popular, raccoons. Raccoons are common carriers of the Rabies Virus, Leptospirosis, roundworm, and more. They can transmit these diseases to both humans and other animals, including pets.

Continue reading to learn more about these three common zoonotic raccoon diseases, and what to do if you have a raccoon problem on your property.

Louisville Raccoon Removal and Control 502-553-7622

How to Protect Yourself

Vaccinations are a great method of protection against accidental contamination of zoonoses, especially if you live near a wooded area or an area that is highly populated with wildlife, frequently participate in outdoor activities, or work with animals. Also, be sure to ever attempt touching catching, trapping, harming, or provoking wildlife. You cannot predict what a wild animal will do, and what they are infected with.

❶ Rabies

The Rabies virus is a well-known infectious disease that can be transmitted to humans. Raccoons are common carrier of rabies, which is a virus that affects the central nervous system. There is no cure or treatment for this viral disease if an animal is infected. As for humans, treatments are available, and effective so long as medical attention is received early on. Very few humans have died from rabies. It is transmitted through an infected raccoon’s saliva entering the bloodstream. Usually a raccoon bites a mammal, and the saliva enters their bloodstream, thus leading to infection.

❷ Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that is commonly transmitted via infected urine. Raccoons are common carriers, as well as, dogs, pigs, cattle, and rodents. It is common for humans to not show any symptoms at all, but still pass it on to others, while others will become seriously ill. Infection occurs when a mammal comes into contact with soil, water, or food that has been contaminated with infected urine.

❸ Roundworm

Scientifically referred to as Baylisascaris Procyonis, Raccoon roundworm is a common parasitic disease that can be passed from raccoon to human or pet. It travels through the intestinal tract, and can settle someone underneath the surface of the skin. There are treatments and vaccinations used for raccoon roundworm infections.

If You Have Raccoon Problems…

If you have raccoons in the attic, or somewhere else inside your home, it is extremely dangerous to use poison to get rid of them. The safest and quickest course of action for removing raccoons is using a licensed raccoon removal service in your area. Contact them for emergency raccoon removal, and they will extract the raccoons and relocate them to a faraway, safe habitat. From there, they can offer cleanup and restoration services for any residual raccoon damages and mess.

Who to Trust for Safe Raccoon Removal in Louisville

Call 502-553-7622 if you are experiencing raccoon problems in Louisville, Kentucky. We offer residential and commercial raccoon removal and control, as well as, raccoon proofing and prevention, minor restorations for raccoon damages, raccoon cleanup, and much more. We may even be able to perform homeowners’ insurance claim work. Request a free estimate or advice, anytime. Request a free estimate, anytime.

Emergency Raccoon Removal and Control 502-553-7622

Should I Be Afraid of a Raccoon?

Posted on August 30, 2019 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

There are many things in life that people fear; heights, airplanes, broccoli. But raccoons? Should you be afraid of them? Continue reading to find out some facts that will help you decide their threat level.

Raccoon Control

Raccoons are awful cute for a nuisance pest. But the reality is, having raccoons around is not a good thing. Although they have their own place in the Eco-system, they are not a welcomed presence on our properties. Raccoons can be incredibly destructive; not just to the exterior of a property, but also to the inside if they are able to gain access. So when it comes to spotting raccoons on your property, you should be concerned of their potential impact. To abate nuisance raccoon activity around your property, you will need professional Louisville raccoon control services.

As for raccoons being a physical threat, you should be afraid. Raccoons are common carriers of several communicable diseases, which can be transmitted through blood, feces, or urine. Common diseases include Rabies, Leptospirosis, distemper, mange, roundworm, and more. Raccoons can also spread lice, mites, ticks, and other parasites which can be passed on to both people and pets.

What To Do if You See a Raccoon

Raccoons are not likely to attack a person or pet unless they are provoked. So simply seeing a raccoon in your yard or on your patio is not an immediate threat. However, you should still keep your distance. Keep all pets inside as well. The rule of thumb is to never, under any circumstances, attempt to approach, touch, trap, harm, or kill a raccoon. Instead, just wait for them to go away. If they are still there after some time, you can try to scare them off with loud noises from the window.

Louisville Raccoon Removal

When all else fails, you need professional intervention. Call 502-553-7622 if you are experiencing ongoing raccoon problems in Louisville, Kentucky and throughout its surrounding areas. We are DNR licensed and insured, and provide both residential and commercial raccoon control services. We offer 24 hour raccoon removal, as well as, raccoon control, proofing, prevention, minor restorations for raccoon damages, cleanup, and much more.

Are Raccoons Actually Dangerous?

Posted on January 9, 2017 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

Spotting a wild raccoon can be startling, especially if they are seen on your own property. Raccoons are wild animals, and should not be trusted. To say they are dangerous might be an over exaggeration; however, that does not mean they are safe. Continue reading to learn the safety concerns associated with wild raccoons, and how to handle a raccoon encounter if you are ever face to face with one.

Raccoons Can Carry Diseases

One major safety concern with raccoons, or any wild animal, is the possibility that they may be carrying an infectious disease. Raccoons are known to be carriers of various bacterial and viral infections. Rabies, Canine Distemper, Parvo, and Leptospirosis are among a few of the most common diseases they can carry. With one bite or claw scratch, a raccoon can pass these infections to children, adults, and even pets. This is just one other reason to steer clear of wild animals, including raccoons.

Raccoons Can Show Aggression

Although raccoons are not known to attack humans and other animals without provocation, it is not beyond their animal capabilities. If a raccoon feels threatened, or feels their young are in danger, they can attack. Raccoons have long sharp teeth and claws that can be fatal for small outdoor pets such as cats and dogs. They can also bite, passing on infectious diseases like the ones mentioned above. Their saliva and urine are danger zones for disease, and they can use both of these as self-defense against a
human or other animal. So do not provoke
or even approach a wild raccoon.

How to Protect Yourself from Wild Raccoons

If you frequently see wild raccoons on your property, either rummaging through garbage or grub hunting in the backyard; be sure to call a professional for advice. A professional animal control technician, especially one that specializes in raccoons, can offer accurate and helpful advice and services for raccoon removal and prevention. These experts retain the proper tools and equipment to facilitate a safe and effective raccoon removal job, fast.

They can also diagnose what may be attracting the raccoons to your property, and eliminate any future problems. Experience and industry knowledge are crucial when it comes to getting rid of raccoons on residential properties, which is why it is highly recommended to consult a professional for help with a raccoon problem. It can be very dangerous dealing with raccoons without the proper gear, equipment, and training.

Louisville Raccoon Removal

Call 502-553-76622 for Louisville raccoon removal you can trust. We are DNR licensed and insured raccoon control experts with over 20 years of experience in the raccoon industry. We have all the latest technologies and equipment to carry out safe and humane raccoon control and cleanup jobs. Call 502-553-76622 to speak with a live raccoon control specialist today! Request a free estimate for raccoon removal in Louisville, Kentucky and its surrounding areas.

Interesting Raccoon Facts and Fun Trivia!

Posted on December 17, 2015 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

There are so many interesting and fun facts about wild raccoons and their young. As a nature lover, it is only expected to be an admirer of such evolved, intelligent, and thrifty critters. Their capabilities truly set them apart from the other species of animal that share their natural habitats. To learn more interesting and exciting information about the common raccoon, continue reading and indulge yourself in useful raccoon trivia, truths, and facts!

Let’s Get Started!

What is the Scientific Name for a Wild Raccoon?

Raccoons are scientifically referred to as Procyon Lotor. This is a Latin term that loosely translates into “washer dog”. This could be because raccoons use their hands to “wash or rinse” their food in water before consuming it. Although it is not proven that this is the reason why raccoons douse their food before eating it, it has been a source for naming the species over the ages. It dates back to old Native American slang that describes raccoons as “ones who rubs and scratches with its hands”.

What Do Raccoons Eat?

The diets for wild raccoons in nature differ from the diets of raccoons living in urban and metropolitan areas. Raccoons in nature tend to feed mostly on fish, amphibians, insects, worms, invertebrates, bird eggs, and plant material. They are excellent at fishing but will eat anything that is easily attainable and tasty. In comparison, wild raccoons in suburban territories have become accustomed to a different palette of food. Raccoons have become experts at surviving in residential and urban areas following commercial development and construction. They like to rummage through trash cans and dumpsters for scraps of food; as well as, steal outdoor pet food, garage inventories, and more. They have become very good at these tasks that have proven well for survival.

How Long to Raccoons Live?

Raccoons are meant to live full lives up to twenty or more years; however, this mostly depends on their environment, territory, and plain luck. Because raccoons are known as pests in residential and commercial neighborhoods, they can be the target of inhumane animal trapping and hunting. This can certainly take off a few years of their life. Also, environmental conditions can influence the life expectancy of a wild raccoon. Available food sources, weather, and more can all determine how long a raccoon can survive in the wild.

Some people are raccoon pet owners who have successfully domesticated raccoons. These “pet” raccoons can live up to 20 or 30 years in captivity. When considering all the environmental and influential elements that raccoons can face, on average they live to be about two or three years old; however, in the wild, this number can more than double depending on nearby predators and other threats.

Raccoon Removal Louisville

Call 502-553-7622 for prompt and professional raccoon removal in Louisville, Kentucky. With more than 20 years of experience, our technicians can provide a wide range of raccoon control services for all situations and properties. We are DNR licensed and insured, and committed to safe and humane raccoon removal and control. If you need Louisville raccoon control services for your residential or commercial property, call our office today at 502-553-7622 and get a free estimate in a matter of minutes!

What are Oral Rabies Vaccines?

Posted on March 18, 2015 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, as well as, their Wildlife Services department have been working together or many years to overcome the rabies epidemics plaguing our pets and animals in our nature’s wildlife. For this reason, over the past few decades many states have utilized oral rabies vaccines (ORV’s) in an attempt to control the spread of the rabies virus among their local wildlife. These oral vaccines come in a few different forms, which we will discuss further in this blog. Continue reading to answer your question about oral rabies vaccines, their effectiveness, and how they work.

Oral Rabies Vaccinations

The intention of oral rabies vaccinations is to provide a vaccine for local wildlife that is at risk of contracting or spreading the rabies virus. Many states have participated in this approach to vaccinating wild animals, and have seen positive results. These oral vaccinations come in a variety of forms and are generally distributed in bulk by dropping them from airplanes or manually placing them all about. They are left on the ground for wildlife to consume, like skunks, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, and more.

One of the most common forms or ORV’s are made into flavored pellets. These pellets are generally the size of a small ring box and brown in color. They are manufactured with many different scents or flavors, like fish or lard, to attract wild animals to eat them. On the pellets is a stamp from the local health department and a phone number for questions and concerns. Other ORV’s come in the form of a packet that looks similar to a white ketchup packet. These packets are covered in fishmeal that help attract raccoons and other animals to eat them.

Many states have adopted this form of vaccination because it has shown positive results. Places like San Antonio, Texas have used the “ketchup packet” ORV approach, while many other states like Main, New York, Virginia, New Hampshire, Tennessee, have used alternative ORV methods that work equally as well. All of these oral rabies vaccines have been tested several times over the decades on hundreds of animals, and has proven to be non-toxic to dogs, cats, and more. If a dog or cat consumes an ORV, they will be just fine. If they consume many, they may have an upset stomach and need a trip to a veterinarian.

Raccoon Removal Louisville Indiana

Call 502-553-7622 for fast and friendly raccoon removal services in Louisville, Kentucky. We are DNR licensed and insured wildlife control technicians with decades of experience removing raccoons from commercial and residential properties. We only use safe and humane means to extract raccoons and prevent their return. Call 502-553-7622 for free estimates, advice, and more information about Louisville raccoon control, today.

Raccoon Diseases and Parasites

Posted on August 26, 2014 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

Just like all other mammals all across the globe, raccoons are susceptible to disease, illness, and parasites. In fact, raccoons can be subjected to almost any disease a human can be subjected to, and vice versa. This is why we humans must steer clear of wild animals at all costs (no matter how cute and cuddly they appear), and to also prevent wild animal encounters involving our beloved pets. Any wild animal can be infected or be a carrier of disease or illness. Even if you are sure an animal will not attack (which you can NEVER be sure of, by the way), a bite is not the only way a diseased animal can pass along their sickness.

So always keep your distance from a wild animal; even if it’s injured, trapped, or just a baby. Instead, contact a local wildlife rescue and control service for professional and safe assistance. They retain the proper licensing, equipment, tools, and training to safely and humanely remove or help a wild animal. Wild animals such as mice, rats, bats, raccoons, opossum, birds, snakes, rabbits, deer, and more are all common carriers of diseases and parasites. Health consequences can range from death or congestive heart failure, to a simple common cold. Continue reading to learn more about raccoons and the illness they can carry and pass on to humans and pets.

Rabies

Rabies is one of the most familiar diseases associated with wild raccoons. It is also one of the most serious illnesses that can be passed on to humans, cats, dogs, and other mammals. Raccoons can carriers of the disease and never once show a sign or symptom; while many others become infected and soon die from the disease. This is because Rabies incubates within an animal for quite some time before taking over, if at all. Signs of rabies in a raccoon include erratic behavior, walking around during the daytime hours, shaking or convulsing, foaming at the mouth or drooling, wobble-like walking, heightened aggression, and any other form of strange or questionable behavior. If you, your pet, or a loved one has come into contact with a raccoon that may have rabies, seek medical attention immediately. It is strongly encouraged to have your pets vaccinated annually, as well.

Distemper

The second leading cause of death for raccoons is distemper. Canine distemper and feline distemper can both infect and kill wild raccoons, but are both caused by different viruses. The canine distemper illness is extremely contagious and mostly affects larger raccoon colonies. Once infected, the illness starts off slow and begins to affect the respiratory system. Watery eyes and running noses are common signs of this illnesses. Other signs include pneumonia-like symptoms, diarrhea, thin body, aimless wandering, disorientation, and paralysis. It is spread through contact of bodily fluids, as well as, inhalation or digestion of airborne droplets. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for Distemper. This is why preventative maintenance is vital in order to protect yourself and your pets.

Roundworm

Raccoon roundworm is a common parasitic disease that is highly contagious and easily transmitted. It is transmitted through the eggs in feces. Coming into contact with anything that has had contact with infected raccoon feces faces infection as well. These roundworms are found in the large intestine of raccoons. It can be passed from animal to animal, or animal to human. This is another reason to steer clear of wild raccoons!

Louisville Raccoon Removal Services

Call 502-553-7622 for professional and punctual Louisville raccoon removal services for all Kentucky counties. We are highly trained and DNR licensed raccoon control specialists with decades of experience in the wildlife removal industry. We use safe and humane methods to extract raccoons, and never harm or kill them. We offer free estimates, free advice, raccoon information, and 24 hour emergency services! Call 502-553-7622 for licensed raccoon removal and control in Louisville, KY and its surrounding counties.

Can I Pet a Wild Raccoon?

Posted on November 8, 2013 by raccoonremovallouisvilleky

Sometimes, we see wild animals such as birds, raccoons, squirrels, skunks, rabbits, and more; but should we attempt to touch them or pet them if we get the urge? Although animals look cute and fluffy, they are not domesticated or accustomed to humans. This means they most likely view us a threat or danger; thus causing them to react and protect themselves by any means necessary if they feel intimidated. Wild animals are very unpredictable when it comes to self-defense behaviors; especially raccoons. So if you see a raccoon, it is best to not attempt to make any contact with it what-so-ever. There are various reasons for this, so continue reading and learn why raccoons should be left alone if you ever see one in the wild.

Raccoons are Known Carriers of the Rabies Virus

Not only are raccoons one of the leading carriers of rabies in the world, they can possibly transfer several other infections and diseases as well. Leptospirosis, roundworm, salmonella, ticks, fleas, and more are all potential contagions carried and contagious in wild raccoons. Upon contact, anyone can contract one of these ailments; especially from raccoon attacks.

Raccoons Will Attack if Intimidated

Raccoons are capable of scratching and biting a person or pet if they feel intimated or threatened. This is truer of mother raccoons defending their young. If they think their raccoon pups are in danger, they will certainly do what it takes to scare you away; even if this means lunging, biting, and scratching you in self-defense. Not only can this be painful, it can be an open door for disease and infection.

Raccoon Control in Louisville, Kentucky

If you are seeing wild raccoons regularly near your Louisville, Kentucky property, call 502-553-7622 today. We are DNR licensed and insured wildlife control specialists that specialize in raccoon removal services. Our teams of highly trained and experienced raccoon control technicians only use safe and humane methods to get rid of raccoons in Louisville. Visit our website at http://www.raccoonremovallouisvilleky.com/raccoon-control-louisville-ky.php for details about our services and company credentials. We offer free estimates, DIY advice, discounts, coupons, and more! Call us today at 502-553-7622 for reliable raccoon control services in Louisville, KY and its surrounding regions.