Ann Arbor is seeing a significant number of wild animals infected with two diseases that can be deadly for household pets.
The Humane Society of Huron Valley is warning Washtenaw County residents that cases of parvovirus and distemper, which can affect a variety of canines, are significantly up in the area this year.
The society reports a 45 percent uptick in sick wildlife in 2019. It also reports an increase in dogs with parvovirus, commonly known as parvo, visiting its vet clinic.
Parvo and distemper can both be fatal for pets and wildlife. When Youngstown, Ohio, had a distemper outbreak last year, residents reported “zombie-like” raccoons walking around on their hind legs and baring their teeth during the day. Fourteen raccoons were put down after police were called to handle them.
Simple steps and education can protect your pets from both viruses.
Could my pet be affected?
The diseases mainly affect dogs, but can include raccoons, skunks, coyotes, foxes and more.
Dogs under four months old and unvaccinated dogs are most at risk for both diseases, but cats can also get certain strains of the viruses, according to the humane society.
Distemper is a viral infection, and can spread through the air, or through urine or feces. Parvo, also a virus, can spread through contact with other parvo-infected animals or their bodily fluids, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
What can I do to protect my cats and dogs?
Pets should be vaccinated to protect from parvo and distemper. Both vaccines are standard core vaccines at the vet, and should be kept up to date throughout your pet’s life, according to the humane society.
Practicing good pet hygiene is helpful in preventing both diseases, since they can spread through contact with infected animals or their feces. Disinfectants can kill distemper, so regular cleaning helps, too.
Proper pet hydration is also key, since both viruses can cause dehydration.
Could I get parvo or distemper?
Animal parvo can't be transmitted to humans. Humans can be infected with distemper, but it won’t affect your health at all. You can be a carrier for the disease and it could infect your pet. Pet vaccination is the best way to stop it spreading.
How will I know if my pet has parvo or distemper?
Parvo symptoms strike quickly, and can include severe diarrhea and vomiting, lethargy, bloating or abdominal pain, hypothermia or fever. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends reaching out to your vet immediately if you suspect your pup may have parvo, since deaths can occur as soon as 48 hours after exposure.
Distemper brings the same symptoms, but can also have neurological effects like stumbling, head tilts, circling behavior, tremors, seizures or paralysis, according to the humane society. Pet owners should also call their vet if their animal is displaying distemper symptoms.
What should I do if I find a sick animal?
If you see an animal in the Washtenaw County area that you think may be infected, the humane society is asking that you call its rescue department at 734-661-3512.