Local

Animal shelters warn pet owners of increased canine diseases during summertime

IREDELL COUNTY, N.C. — Summertime bring with it the potential for increased exposure for contagious diseases spread from wildlife to household pets, according to Iredell County communications manager Ben Stikeleather.

Rabies is one of the most common diseases, but one that is being seen more and more frequently is canine distemper virus.

This virus is a highly contagious disease that affects dogs, foxes, coyotes, ferrets, skunks, and raccoons. Symptoms in dogs can include discharge from the eyes, fever, coughing, and reduced appetite.

The Iredell County Animal Shelter has confirmed a case of distemper in a dog under care at the shelter after increased reports of distemper in the area. Any dog owners who had a dog at the shelter during this time have been contacted.

Dogs can receive a vaccination to protect against canine distemper, but it takes approximately two weeks to take affect along with a booster shot at two weeks for the best protection.

Iredell County Animal Services is working to set up distemper vaccination clinics in response to the increased number of distemper cases in the area.

This disease does not affect cats.