Sick raccoons cause concern in Gonzales about distemper

The Gonzales County Animal Control and Gonzales Police Department said they have received several calls in the past month concerning sick raccoons spotted by residents within city limits.

A wildlife health specialist with the Texas Parks and Wildlife were called to advise and it was determined that there are raccoons in the area suffering from distemper, a viral disease that affects a wife variety of mammals, including raccoons, dogs, coyotes, foxes, wolves, skunks and felines.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for or treatment that can occur; the disease must run its course. The good news is that it cannot be transferred to humans, so there is not a risk to residents; however, distemper can get passed to pets.

Please help mitigate this disease as much as possible by the following:

• Keep your distance: Keep children and pets away from sick raccoons. If you encounter a raccoon, back away and don't try to touch it.

• Don't feed raccoons: Do not feed stray animals. Secure your pet’s food and do not leave it outside. Pick up any remaining food your pet does not eat. Feeding raccoons can increase the spread of the disease.

• Secure your trash: Make sure your garbage cans are covered and can't be knocked over.

• Dispose of raccoons properly: If a raccoon dies in your yard, bury it deep or double bag it and throw it away in the trash. Wear rubber gloves when handling the raccoon.

• Vaccinate your pets: Get your pets vaccinated against distemper.

• Secure your property: Make sure your home and other buildings are secure to prevent raccoons from entering.

• Remove bird feeders: Take down bird feeders or clean up the area around them.

• Keep your yard clean: Scan your yard before letting your pets outside.