Patchogue, NY – Recent findings of dead raccoons at the historic William Floyd Estate on Long Island have raised serious concerns for pet owners in the area. The National Park Service (NPS) has issued a warning after raccoons tested positive for Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), a highly contagious and dangerous disease that can affect dogs.
What is Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)?
Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is a severe viral infection that primarily impacts the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of dogs. The virus is spread through close contact with infected animals, and although it doesn’t affect humans, it can be fatal to dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure for CDV, and no antiviral treatment has been approved to combat the disease.
In late December, NPS staff observed unusual behavior from two raccoons on the grounds of the estate. These raccoons were found to be infected with CDV, prompting further investigation into the area. Additionally, several other dead raccoons were found, all testing positive for the virus. The NPS confirmed that the animals tested negative for both rabies and avian influenza (bird flu).
How Does CDV Affect Dogs?
Dogs are highly susceptible to CDV if they come into contact with an infected animal. Symptoms of the disease in dogs can include:
Fever
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Coughing or difficulty breathing
Vomiting or diarrhea
Seizures and neurological symptoms (such as incoordination or paralysis)
Once a dog is infected with CDV, the disease can be fatal, especially if not caught and treated in the early stages. Prevention through vaccination is the best way to protect your pet.
Signs of CDV in Wildlife: What to Watch For
Although Canine Distemper Virus is not a threat to humans, it is highly contagious to dogs. The NPS reports that the infected raccoons exhibited unusual behavior such as daytime activity and disorientation. Affected animals may approach humans, appear confused, and stumble around. If you observe such behavior in raccoons or other wildlife, it’s important to:
Avoid close contact with the animal.
Keep your pets on a leash to prevent them from coming into contact with infected wildlife.
What Should Pet Owners Do?
People in the area are advised to avoid potential encounters with wildlife, including raccoons, to prevent the risk of disease transmission. The National Park Service has temporarily closed the William Floyd Estate to the public for safety reasons. The estate grounds are typically open seasonally from May 1 until the Sunday after Thanksgiving, so for now, the public is urged to stay clear of the area.
How Can I Protect My Dog?
The best way to protect your dog from Canine Distemper Virus is by ensuring they are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Most pets receive the distemper vaccine as part of their routine wellness care, and it’s crucial to keep these vaccinations current to reduce the risk of infection.
Keep pets on a leash during walks, especially in areas where wildlife may be present.
Avoid letting your dog interact with wildlife, even if the animals appear friendly.
Report any unusual wildlife behavior to local authorities or the National Park Service.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
While CDV is not a threat to humans, it poses a serious risk to dogs, particularly if they come into contact with infected animals. As always, maintaining regular vaccinations and staying aware of local health advisories will help protect your pets from preventable diseases like Canine Distemper.
For more information or to report sick or injured wildlife, please contact your local animal control or the National Park Service.
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