STARKVILLE, Miss.- The Mississippi State Veterinary School has confirmed that three raccoons in Starkville have tested positive for the canine virus distemper.
The virus has not been spread to any domestic dogs as of yet. However, the university is warning pet owners to keep an eye on their animals and not allow water bowls and beds to be shared.
The disease is highly contagious and can cause fever, lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as mucus coming from the animals eyes and nose. If it has enough time to progress altered brain behavior is noted as well as staggering when walking.
