The three new cases of raccoons that tested positive for Rabies were found outside the city of Hamilton, two in Caledonia and one south of Hagersville.
Also of interest to pet owners, 90% of the raccoons who were picked up for abnormal behaviour tested positive for distemper virus. Dispemper virus can be passed to dogs if they come into contact with raccoons and causes fever, discharge from the eyes and nose, decreased appetite, vomiting and diarrhea, and neurological signs (often incoordination and seizures). Vaccinations for dispemper are very effective and are included in our “core” vaccination protocol (ie they are given to every dog). Dispemper cannot be transmitted to people.
The Ministry of Natural Resources has finished the raccoon vaccination baiting program for the season however it will continue to monitor and test suspicious animals for rabies throughout the winter.
To read the full article from the Hamilton Spectator click HERE.
