A raccoon in the advanced stages of distemper was seen early Tuesday morning on Park Ave. Animal Control came immediately to get the very sick animal. There is no cure and it will be euthanized. Animal Control said that the raccoon population has exploded in the east end of town and with it, distemper will also be present in a large number of them. Symptoms are: confusion, blindness, mucus discharge, or wandering aimlessly. They will also lose their fear of humans.
While raccoon distemper will not affect humans, it will be contagious to unvaccinated dogs or cats. Keep your pets away from an infected raccoon and do not handle them unless you wear gloves. Call Animal Control immediately.