Citizens Warned After Sick Raccoon Found

A raccoon, believed to be sick with distemper, has been sent to Austin for testing after being found wondering aimlessly in the streets of Canton.

Animal Control Officer Tom Perry said distemper symptoms are similar to those of rabies.

"This animal did have runny nose discharge and was wondering aimlessly and did not appear frightened," Perry said.

Animals with distemper, Perry said, also tend to tumble over on their side and also have a dirty coat.

Rabid animals, Perry said, stagger, are more agitated, growl, have a dropped down jaw and also tend to foam at the mouth.

Perry said distemper is contracted from feces and urine, and when animals are in large populations where they pass it on to one another.

"Raccoons travel together and they go to the same source of food," he said.

This adult raccoon, which Perry captured for testing is just one of more than five captured in the last week with similar symptoms.

The raccoons are being found in the same general location of State Highways 198 and 243, also along Woodland, Big Rock and Avenue A.

"Male raccoons can travel a six to 20 mile radius and females travel a one to six mile radius," Perry explained.

Because of the great tree population in these areas, raccoons tend to stay close to these locations.

"Never walk up to a wild or sick animal and pet it," Perry warned.

Although distemper is not contagious to humans, Perry said it can be contracted by other animals.

He said it is very important for pet owners to make sure their animals are vaccinated and current on all shots.

Perry said it is important for residents to report sick animals to the police department at (903) 567-4991, so an officer can come observe the situation and take appropriate measures.

Although there have been no other reports of sick animals, domestic or wild, in the city several years ago Perry said there was a similar situation of sick raccoons reported at the country club.

It is, however, not uncommon for wild animals to make their way into the city. Feral hogs, armadillos, skunks and raccoons are some of the wild animals reported to Perry since he has been with the city.

Results from the tested raccoon will not be back until Friday. If it comes back as positive for distemper, Perry said there is nothing the city or residents can do but let the disease run its course.

Perry said it is important to get your animals vaccinated, report sick animals to police, and don’t leave scraps or animal food out that might attract other animals.