Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – Oct. 9, 2024 – A Jonesboro Animal Service Officer picked up a raccoon from the northern area of Jonesboro Oct. 8. The raccoon displayed multiple symptoms of the distemper virus.

Distemper is caused by canine distemper virus. This is a highly contagious viral disease that affects unvaccinated dogs of all ages. Canine distemper virus is not rabies.

How does the virus spread?

  1. Direct contact with other wild or domestic animals that are infected with the virus
  2. Direct contact with a deceased animal that has died from the virus
  3. Airborne exposure
  4. Through the placenta

Some wild or domestic animals can be silent carriers and shed the virus, however, in most infected animals some or all of the following signs and symptoms can be seen.

  1. Sneezing and runny nose
  2. Eye discharge or drainage
  3. Fever
  4. Vomiting and diarrhea
  5. Excessive vocalization
  6. Seizures
  7. Paralysis
  8. Neurologic issues, stumbling/balance issues/lack of body and muscle control
  9. Death

How is it treated?

There is no cure for canine distemper virus. Treatment involves supportive care such as rehydration and medication for some of the symptoms, but in most cases the outcome is death. VACCINATION IS 100% PREVENTATIVE.

If your pet is displaying any signs or symptoms, isolate them and contact your veterinarian for a consultation.

How can I protect my pet against distemper?

  1. Vaccination and follow-up boosters
  2. Protect your pets: Keep them at home, away from unfamiliar dogs until they have finished their complete vaccination series.
  3. Keep your dog away from sick dogs and wildlife. Do not let your dog have direct contact with any sick dogs, nor share food or water bowls with them.
  4. Don’t attract wild, stray, or unfamiliar animals to your yard by leaving food out for them. Keep garbage can lids closed. Never touch wild, stray, or unfamiliar animals and never bring them into your home.
  5. Do not let your pet around sick or dead animals. If you find dead wildlife in your yard, bag it and dispose of it immediately. Saturate the area with disinfectant several times and keep your pet away from the area.

If you observe an animal within the city limits of Jonesboro that is acting strangely or aggressively, or appears to be a stray, please contact Jonesboro Animal Services at 870-935-3920