WASHINGTON – A raccoon recently tested positive for canine distemper in Fairfax County.
Fairfax County police is warning dog owners in the Fort Hunt and Namassin roads area of the county to verify their pets are up-to-date on distemper vaccinations.
Animal Control Officers say one raccoon, out of five collected, tested positive for canine distemper, which is highly contagious and potentially deadly for dogs.
According to the ASPCA, the first signs of canine distemper include sneezing, coughing and thick mucus coming from the eyes and nose. Other signs include fever, lethargy, sudden vomiting and diarrhea, depression and/or loss of appetite.
Anyone who sees any symptom of canine distemper should take their dog to the veterinarian immediately.
Canine distemper can affect raccoons, skunks, foxes and coyotes.
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