Santa Cruz County raccoons test positive for distemper

Several raccoons in the Aptos/Watsonville area tested positive for distemper, according to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter. Infected raccoons often appear rabid.

The increase in cases may also be related to several sick raccoons in the Seabright area.

While distemper isn’t dangerous to humans, it can affect pets. The most common symptoms in dog can include fever, red eyes, and water discharge from nose and eyes. An infected dog will also become very lethargic.

The common symptoms in cats include fever, vomiting, diarrhea and sudden death.

The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter can be reached at 831-454-7303 ext 1.

Tips from the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter:

– Vaccinate your dogs and cats.

– Although distemper poses no threat to humans, anyone bitten or scratched by a raccoon must contact their physician immediately.

– Feed pets indoors.

– Those who feed pets outdoors should take special care to remove any leftover food. It can attract infected animals not completely debilitated by the disease.

– Please do not feed wildlife. Feeding wildlife may lead to large concentrations of animals around food, increasing the spread of disease.

– Restrain your pets; do not allow them to roam. Keep dogs on a leash when outside your property.

– If you observe a sick wild animal, do not approach the animal.