DELAWARE, Ohio (WCMH) – Central Ohio residents have been reporting more cases of distemper in wildlife, with officials recommending pet owners vaccinate their pets against the highly contagious and dangerous disease.
Canine Distemper Virus is a serious viral disease that can infect mammals, although it is not transmissible to humans, according to the Ohio Wildlife Center.
It often affects raccoons, foxes and skunks in Ohio, but can spread to dogs and cats if they come into contact with an infected animal.
There is no cure for distemper but vaccines are available for pets.
The virus is resistant to cold and the Delaware Public Health District said most cases in domestic dogs occur in fall and winter. Delaware health officials also said the issue is not limited to Delaware, with cases across central Ohio.
Adam Howard, deputy health commissioner for the Delaware Public Health District, said the animals may appear friendlier to humans but should be left alone and reported.
If an animal shows any of these signs, they may be exhibiting symptoms of distemper, according to the Delaware Public Health District:
- Seizures
- Foaming at the mouth
- Crust or discharge around the nose and eyes
- Lack of balance
- Glowing green eyes
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Unkempt fur
- Exhaustion
- Lack of aggression
- May approach people or curl up in an open area
According to the Ohio Wildlife Center, the disease leads to a poor quality of life. The center said the most humane option is having professionals capture the animal and euthanize them. The center said with no treatment options, it’s more likely the animal would suffer or walk into traffic than be able to enjoy its life.
People are encouraged not to leave food out, including bird feeders or pet food, and to secure all garbage and recycling cans.
The Delaware Public Health District also recommended keeping pets on a leash when walking and double-checking your yard before letting them out. Most of all, pet owners are encouraged to make sure their dogs are vaccinated against the disease.
“With distemper, it’s all about prevention. So making sure that your dog is updated on their vaccines,” Howard said.
Distemper is transmitted through air particles or direct contact, and while a person cannot contract the disease, they can spread it to their pets from their clothing. Many dogs get vaccinated for distemper as puppies but pet owners should ensure they have the vaccine and the appropriate boosters every one to three years.
The disease also mirrors symptoms of rabies, so officials say to report any odd behavior to keep people, pets and wildlife safe. If people see an animal acting oddly, they are encouraged to keep their pets indoors, call police or wildlife centers, and report the incident to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
