Authorities in California are warning dog owners of an unusually high number of canine distemper virus cases in the wildlife populations across that state.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife said that unvaccinated domestic dogs can contract the disease if they come into contact with food or water bowls that infected wildlife can access.
It is also important that you make sure to keep your dog’s food and water bowls inside until your pet has been vaccinated.
Canine distemper virus infects carnivorous animals like gray foxes, raccoons, and skinks. These are the most commonly affected species found in the wild.
Fish and Wildlife officials suggest that dog owners be careful about their pets coming into contact with wildlife until they are vaccinated.
It has also been noted that unvaccinated domestic dogs can spread the virus just as easily as a wild animal.
Distemper can cause respiratory, neurologic and gastrointestinal illness.
