Raccoons, native to North America and Central America, tend to live in forests near bodies of water, like a lake or stream. Normally they are the size of small dogs, but in populated areas where they are being fed, can be over 60 lbs. Normally if left alone, they are not dangerous. They can, however, carry serious diseases that can infect dogs.
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Disease
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Raccoons live in wooded areas near water. There are public health concerns when it comes to raccoons, more with pets than with people. They can carry two life-threatening diseases for dogs--canine distemper and rabies. Keeping pet dogs indoors in heavily wooded areas and properly vaccinated will protect them. Prevention is important and could save your dog's life.
Distemper
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Canine distemper is a virus that is very contagious to many wild animals as well as dogs. It is transmitted through bodily secretions, like sneezing, saliva and urine. An infected dog will have discharge from the eyes and nose, a fever, lethargy, decreased appetite, and possibly vomiting and diarrhea. The later stages of the disease attack the nervous system. Symptoms include muscle tremors, seizures and paralysis. At this stage, it is fatal.
Rabies
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Another viral disease affecting both raccoons and dogs is rabies. However, this one is transmitted through a bite or scratch from an infected animal. It will also infect the nervous system, causing illness in the brain. An owner will see behavioral changes like aggression, and sensitivity to light, sound and touch. The classic foaming at the mouth will be seen. The dog might appear wobbly, weak and disoriented. They will stop eating, and can have seizures.
Diagnosis
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Diagnosis of both diseases will most likely be made from clinical signs and history and must be made by the veterinarian. There are no absolute tests for distemper, and the only test for rabies is done on brain tissue, and the animal must be dead first. Since rabies is a public health issue, animals must be tested after death to confirm infection.
Treatment
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A dog suspected of rabies has to be quarantined or immediately euthanized. There is no cure for canine distemper or for rabies. Distemper can be treated temporarily to prevent secondary bacterial infections. Dehydration will occur and can be treated with IV fluids in a veterinary hospital. And medications might be given to control the neurological symptoms, as well as any vomiting and diarrhea. It will, however, be fatal even with treatment. Rabies can infect humans as well, and dogs suspected of having rabies will be quarantined and euthanized if symptoms present.
Prevention
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Yearly vaccines will protect dogs from many diseases. Prevention is the only way to protect pet dogs from contracting distemper or rabies. There are vaccinations for both diseases that a vet must administer every one to three years. Young puppies are especially at risk for distemper since they have to receive a series of three shots before their first year. They are not fully protected until the whole series has been given. Keep them away from areas known to have raccoons as well.
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