TULSA, Okla. — Tulsa officials are warning of an uptick in sickly or deceased raccoons in several midtown neighborhoods.
People in Crosbie Heights, Owen Park, Riverview and Maple Ridge neighborhoods all reported seeing what appear to be sickly or deceased raccoons in recent weeks.
Up to 15 residents reported concerns to Laura Bellis, District Four City Councilor. She posted about the issue on Facebook:
She contacted Tulsa Animal Welfare, which knew about the problem.
“There has been a drought, so raccoons have been staying near urban-centric bodies of water lately,” Bellis said.
TAW recently trapped and tested three raccoons and all tested positive for distemper, a highly-contagious viral disease that can be spread from wildlife to dogs. It cannot be spread to humans.
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“If you see a raccoon acting strangely in broad daylight, it is about staying away from it, giving it space, and making sure pets don’t go near it,” she said.
Officials urge pet owners to stay updated on distemper vaccines, especially for neighbors living close to water. Distemper is typically part of routine vaccines given by veterinarians.
Signs of distemper can include:
- fever
- eye discharge
- coughing
- loss of appetite
- vomiting
- diarrhea
The City of Tulsa wants people to report deceased or sickly-looking raccoons by calling 311 or calling their city councilor.
While city officials are monitoring the issue, Bellis said wildlife is out of their scope. If warranted to levels of more concern, she said she wants to ask the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife to step in and help.
If there is a deceased raccoon in the neighborhood, Tulsans can arrange for the city to pick it up through calling 311. However, use caution if deciding to approach the animal: it could still be alive.
Officials say the best bet is simply stay away from it.
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