This browser does not support the Video element.
Arlington officials concerned after canine distemper confirmed in raccoons
Arlington County officials are warning residents to exercise caution after a half dozen raccoons tested positive for canine distemper.
ARLINGTON, Va. - Arlington County wants residents to be careful around raccoons after several in the community tested positive for "canine distemper."
READ MORE: Arlington issues warning after potentially rabid raccoon bites person
Previously, officials had warned the county about raccoons that may have been infected with rabies.
READ MORE: Coyote, put down after series of attacks in Rockville, tests positive for rabies
However, more recently, they rounded up six raccoons and each of them tested positive for canine distemper.
Both rabies and canine distemper are serious – and potentially deadly – but there are some important differences.
While rabies impacts animals’ brains and nervous systems, canine distemper can impact their gastrointestinal and respiratory systems.
Download the FOX 5 DC News App for Local Breaking News and Weather
Experts are offering the following guidelines for protecting your pets from canine distemper:
- Ensure pets are up to date on their rabies and distemper vaccines
- Keep dogs on a leash at all times and keep cats inside
- Do not approach or feed any wild animals
- Feed pets inside
- Remove wildlife attractants from yards, such as unsecured garbage cans, open containers of food and compost
If you see a raccoon in Arlington acting oddly – if it appears sick, lethargic, disoriented or aggressive – call animal control at 703-931-9241.