Raccoon Distemper: A Growing Concern in DFW

Raccoons are a common sight across North Texas, especially in neighborhoods surrounded by trees, parks, or creeks. However, in recent months, there’s been an alarming increase in cases of canine distemper virus (CDV) among raccoon populations throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth area. While this disease does not infect humans, it poses serious risks to pets, property, and the overall safety of homeowners. Understanding raccoon distemper—and knowing what to do if you encounter a sick raccoon—is key to protecting your family and preventing wildlife intrusions.

What Is Raccoon Distemper?

Canine distemper virus is a highly contagious disease that affects raccoons, dogs, skunks, foxes, and other wildlife. It attacks the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems, leading to severe symptoms such as:

• Disorientation or confusion

• Tremors or seizures

• Thick discharge from the eyes or nose

• Coughing and sneezing

• Lethargy and loss of fear of humans

According to local reports, wildlife control and animal services across North Texas have responded to an increased number of calls about raccoons displaying unusual, sickly behavior in residential neighborhoods (source).

Why Homeowners Should Be Concerned

While distemper doesn’t spread to humans, infected raccoons can transmit the virus to unvaccinated dogs and cats through shared food, water bowls, or contaminated droppings. Because raccoons are highly adaptable, they often enter residential yards and even attics, increasing the chances of cross-contact with household pets.

Sick raccoons may also act unusually calm or aggressive, losing their natural fear of humans. This makes them more likely to approach homes, wander into garages, or seek shelter under decks and porches. In addition to health risks, raccoons can cause extensive damage by tearing up insulation, chewing wires, and leaving behind hazardous waste.

How to Spot an Infected Raccoon

Raccoons suffering from distemper are often mistaken for rabid animals because of their erratic behavior. Common warning signs include:

• Staggering or walking in circles

• Wandering in daylight (raccoons are nocturnal)

• Uncoordinated movements or limp posture

• Watery eyes, runny nose, or visible mucus

• Unresponsive or dazed appearance

If you see a raccoon showing these symptoms, do not attempt to approach, feed, or capture it. Contact your local wildlife control service or animal care agency for professional removal.

Protecting Your Home and Pets

Here’s how North Texas homeowners can reduce the risk of raccoon-related issues and help limit the spread of distemper:

1. Keep Pets Vaccinated: Ensure your dogs and cats are up to date on distemper and rabies vaccinations.

2. Secure Trash and Pet Food: Use animal-proof trash bins and avoid leaving pet food outdoors overnight.

3. Seal Entry Points: Close off attic vents, chimneys, and crawl spaces where raccoons might nest.

4. Eliminate Shelter Opportunities: Trim overhanging branches and block off open spaces under decks or sheds.

5. Call a Professional: If you suspect raccoons are nesting near or inside your home, professional wildlife control experts can humanely remove them and disinfect affected areas.

When to Contact Wildlife Control

If you notice raccoons acting sick, aggressive, or overly tame, it’s safest to let a professional handle the situation. Wildlife control specialists in the DFW area can safely trap and remove raccoons while following humane and state-approved procedures. They can also assess your property for entry points and provide exclusion services to prevent future infestations.

Are you in need of raccoon removal? Our friendly operators at Dallas Fort Worth Wildlife Control are available now at (817) 606-7607. Find out more about our wildlife removal in Arlington and Fort Worth, TX.