Increase in Wild Animals and Possibly rabies

According to communication from Ed Howell, Director of FHSU Police, the University Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies have recently

Map of terrestrial rabies reservoirs in the United States during 2010. Raccoon rabies virus variant is present in the eastern United States, Skunk rabies in the Central United States and California, Click the photo for a closer look

noted an increase in the number of reports of raccoons and skunks that may be infected with rabies or distemper.

Rabies and distemper are diseases that may cause serious illness or death if not treated. Typically, in nocturnal animals such as skunks and raccoons, the animal will wander about during daylight hours and appear to be intoxicated or disoriented. Their behavior and mood swings vary and they may not notice a human near them or they may become curious about humans in the area and walk to them rather than flee from them as normal. The animal may also become very aggressive without warning or provocation. The animal may also appear to be experiencing a seizure.

The public is advised to leave all wild animals alone and stay away from them. If an animal is observed displaying abnormal behavior, please contact law enforcement immediately.

According to the Center for Disease Control there are several things you can do to protect your pet from rabies.

First, visit your veterinarian with your pet on a regular basis and keep rabies vaccinations up-to-date for all cats and dogs.

Second, maintain control of your pets by keeping cats indoors and keeping dogs under direct supervision.

Third, spay or neuter your pets to help reduce the number of unwanted pets that may not be properly cared for or vaccinated regularly.