Sick Raccoons Threaten Local Dogs And Cats

The following is a news release from the Corona Police Department: 

Starting in the month of April 2013, Animal Control picked up 11 raccoons showing symptoms of distemper. All of the animals were humanely euthanized.

A blood sample was taken from one of the 11 raccoons and sent to the California Animal Health & Food Safety Lab for analysis. The sample tested positive for Canine Distemper and Panleukopenia, which is sometimes called “Feline Distemper."  

Neither of these diseases poses any risk of infection to humans. These diseases may be spread to dogs or cats through direct contact, sharing of food or water, or ingestion of fecal matter. 

Pet owners are encouraged to ensure that their pets are currently vaccinated for these diseases. It is recommended that pet food not be left out, especially at night. Residents are advised not to feed any wildlife. 

Raccoons are nocturnal animals, and not usually seen during the day. A sick raccoon may have runny discharge from its nose and eyes, may act confused, lethargic or tame. Any person who encounters a raccoon that appears disoriented or sick, should immediately isolate their dogs and cats from the raccoon and call their local animal control office.