Raccoon tests positive for canine distemper

Pet owners urged to ensure their pets are vaccinated

(Miami, July 3, 2014) – Following tests which confirmed a raccoon died of canine distemper, Miami-Dade County Animal Services is recommending that dog and cat owners ensure their pets are up-to-date with distemper and rabies vaccinations.

Unvaccinated dogs and cats are at risk of infection from, and pose a risk of infection to, raccoons and other wildlife. Distemper is a viral infection that is commonly spread through airborne particles. Dogs and cats should be vaccinated against distemper annually to protect them from this potentially deadly disease, which poses no risk to humans.

The testing of the raccoon was prompted by staff at Tropical Park.  In an effort to prevent this disease from spreading, Miami-Dade County Parks will closely monitor and enforce laws against the abandonment of dogs or cats at county parks. Violators are subject to fines of up to $5,000. In addition, anyone found feeding a domestic or wild animal at a park will be fined up to $200 per violation.

Anyone with concerns regarding their pet’s health or vaccination status should consult with their veterinarian. Additionally, low cost vaccinations are available at Miami-Dade County Animal Services.  Symptoms of distemper include nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, dry eyes, ulcers, lack of coordination, seizures, ataxia and blindness.
                                         
“Keeping our pets’ vaccinations current is an important step to ensure their health and prevent outbreaks that can threaten the lives of our community’s pets and wildlife,” said Alex Muñoz, Director of Miami-Dade County Services Department.

For more information, visit animals.miamidade.gov or call 3-1-1.

About Miami-Dade County Animal Services
Every year Miami-Dade County ASD provides care and refuge for more than 27,000 unwanted dogs and cats. Every day, Animal Services staff and volunteers work diligently to find life-long homes for these abandoned animals by facilitating onsite adoptions, hosting off-site adoptions at events and locations throughout the community, and working collaboratively with more than 70 rescue organizations who share in our goal of a No Kill Miami-Dade County.

# # #

It is the policy of Miami Dade County to comply with all of the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The facility is accessible. For sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices or materials in accessible format, please call 305-418-7188 at least five days in advance.