Reports of distemper in Louisiana raccoons on the rise

ODNR is looking for 2 hunters to kill raccoons at one state park. (Source: Pexels)
ODNR is looking for 2 hunters to kill raccoons at one state park. (Source: Pexels)
Updated: Feb. 5, 2019 at 9:36 AM CST
Email This Link
Share on Pinterest
Share on LinkedIn

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) -The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has reported a rise in reports of distemper in raccoons.

Reports have been primarily in Lafayette to the Florida Parishes in southeast.

Distemper is a virus that infects raccoons, foxes, coyotes, skunks and unvaccinated dogs, according to LDWF.

The disease does not affect humans.

It is spread by direct contact with body fluids or droppings from an infected animal, according to the report.

Symptoms of distemper may include discharge from the nose and eyes, a rough coat of hair, seizures, coughing, emaciated appearance and unusual behavior such as disorientation or wandering aimlessly.

According to LDWF, animals’ symptoms will become progressively worse and the disease is usually fatal.

To protect animals, the LDWF suggests pet owners make sure their animals are vaccinated.

According to the report, distemper is not the same disease as rabies although some symptoms are similar.

The LDWF advises that children and pets be kept away from sick raccoons and other wildlife. Even though the animal may appear calm, they can become aggressive if approached too closely.

Safety tips:

To discourage raccoons from your surroundings, LDWF recommends that you remove attractants from your yard and feed pets indoors. If you feed outdoors, bring in feeding bowls right after pets have eaten. Be sure to secure garbage cans so they can’t be knocked over or have their lids removed.

For more information on distemper, click here.

Copyright 2019 WVUE. All rights reserved.