Tag Archives: canine distemper

What is Raccoon Distemper?

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One of the leading causes of death among raccoon populations is a virus called Distemper. Although raccoons can become infected with the disease, there is no such thing as “raccoon distemper.” Instead, two kinds of distemper exist: feline distemper and canine distemper. Each one is caused by a different virus, but both can cause acute illness and death in animals. Continue reading to learn more about distemper, how it affects raccoons, and how to prevent your beloved pets from accidentally becoming infected.

Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is more common in raccoons than the feline version. Once infected, it progresses slowly, appearing initially as an upper respiratory infection. During this stage, raccoons will experience minor symptoms like runny noses and watery eyes. But soon after, the illness takes a harsh turn into conjunctivitis, which produces gastrointestinal complications, pneumonia, and extreme weight loss. Once this begins, raccoons will enter the final stages of the virus, which causes confusion, disorientation, and brain damage. Raccoons will evince strange behaviors during this stage, such as wobbling around, wandering aimlessly in a circle, and paralysis. This can happen sometimes during the day even though they are primarily nocturnal animals. Many people may confuse all of these signs with the Rabies virus, and understandably so, but to the trained eye, it is clearly distemper.

Feline Distemper

Feline distemper starts out differently than its canine version. Raccoons will experience high fevers and gastrointestinal complications (i.e. vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, etc.), followed by depression and a reduction in white blood cells (leukopenia). It takes less than a week’s time for Feline distemper to become fatal in animals.

Treating Distemper

Distemper in raccoons is primarily spread through bodily fluids and excretions, including blood, saliva, urine, and feces. This means it can travel and spread via airborne droplets or bodily contact. Unfortunately, there is no cure for distemper once an animal is infected with the virus. This is why it is so vital for pet owners to have their dogs and cats vaccinated on a yearly basis. Curious pets may come across an infected raccoon, skunk, or opossum at any time. Having the proper vaccinations protects their immune system from contracting the illness.

Raccoon Removal in Louisville

Call 502-553-7622 for raccoon removal services in Louisville, Kentucky. We are DNR licensed and insured wildlife control contractors that provide safe and humane raccoon removal at an affordable price. We provide commercial and residential raccoon control in all surrounding counties. Call 502-553-7622 for prompt and professional raccoon removal and control in Louisville, KY today.

Common Raccoon Diseases That Threaten the Lives of our Dogs

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There are many animals out in the wild that are common threats to us and our families. There are snakes, spiders, coyotes, mountain lions, and more, depending on what region you live near. One common threat that is hardly overlooked is the wild raccoon. Although we humans are aware to steer clear of these critters when spotted, our outdoor pets are not as keen. Our domesticated dogs, in particular, are at risk to raccoon illness and disease. Continue reading to learn the two most common diseases carried by raccoons and passed onto dogs; and how to care and prevent these scenarios in the future.

Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a very familiar term heard often around veterinary offices. There are vaccinations available and recommended at the beginning of each new puppy’s life to protect them from this illness. The vaccination does not last forever, so it is always strangely suggested to return for a follow up visit. Canine distemper is a virus that can affect any wild animal; not just dogs. The virus is transferred and caught through bodily fluid exchanges, such as sneezing, urine, and saliva. It threatens the lives of our outdoor dogs because it can be easily contracted by a curious canine. An infected dog will appear have the same symptoms as a very severe flu or cold. Unfortunately, there is no real cure for Canine Distemper, which is why prevention is so crucial. The vet can only make the process more comfortable for the dog, once it is diagnosed.

Rabies

Another common illness contracted by canines is rabies. As with canine distemper, there is no cure for rabies, and also, no way to diagnose it. The only way to determine that a dog has rabies is after death. A sample of the brain tissue can be examined to determine the cause of death. A professional vet can observe a dog’s symptoms and decide if they are exhibiting the symptoms of rabies. At that time, the dog will be quarantined and put to sleep. Be sure to have your pets vaccinated for canine distemper and rabies, especially if you live in a wooded area or have outdoor pets.

If you are experiencing high raccoon infestation near or on your Louisville, KY property, call our professional wildlife removal specialists to get rid of your raccoon threat. We are qualified and highly trained raccoon removal technicians with over 20 years of experience in the industry. We use safe and humane methods to get rid of raccoons. Visit our website at https://www.raccoonremovallouisvilleky.com/, or call us at 502-553-7622 and learn more about our raccoon removal services in Louisville, KY.