Raccoons pose risk in Roland and Muldrow

Roland and Muldrow have recently informed residents of an outbreak of raccoons displaying signs of distemper. The town of Roland has taken measures to euthanize several infected raccoons.

Distemper is a highly contagious disease that can mimic rabies. An infected raccoon will exhibit signs of disorientation, difficulty walking, and foaming at the mouth. Distemper is an airborne disease. By nature, raccoons tend to avoid humans and are usually active only at nighttime, but an infected animal might not adhere to this behavior. Residents should avoid any wild animal that shows signs of distemper or rabies, as they may pose a risk to humans and other animals.

Roland resident John Keats says that he recently saw what he calls “rabid raccoons” running along the creek behind his property on Old Hwy. 64.

“I saw two walking around in my cow pasture one afternoon…they were acting very erratically and walking funny,” Keats said.

Keats says that his neighbor has also found “rabid-looking” raccoons on their patio a couple of times.

The town of Roland recommends that pet owners take precautions by storing their pets’ water and food when not in use. Additionally, they should regularly check their dogs for symptoms. Infected dogs will develop pus around the eyes, fever, nasal discharge, coughing, lethargy, reduced appetite, and vomiting.

As the virus attacks the nervous system, infected dogs may also exhibit circling behavior, head tilt, muscle twitches, convulsions with jaw chewing movements and salivation (known as ‘chewing gum fits’), seizures, and partial or complete paralysis. The virus can also cause the footpads to thicken and harden, leading to its nickname, ‘hard pad disease.’

If you come across a wild animal that may have distemper or is exhibiting symptoms, please contact your local animal control facility. As an extra precaution, area residents are also encouraged to ensure their pets are up-to-date on vaccinations.