Pasco County officials are warning residents of an increase in sick or injured raccoons since November 2017. 

  • Pasco officials warn residents of increase in sick raccoons
  • 6 separate reports of sick raccoons reported on Jan. 24
  • 4 were euthanized, two escaped, officials say
  • Reports were in highly populated areas of West Pasco

Pasco County Animal Control responded to six separate reports of sick raccoons on Wednesday, Jan. 24. 

Officials said four of the raccoons were euthanized but two escaped. All of the reports were in highly populated areas on the west side of Pasco County. 

Officials are warning residents to be aware that raccoons can carry and transmit both rabies and distemper. 

Rabies is present in the wild animal population and domestic animals are at risk if not vaccinated. It is recommended that pet owners keep their pets up to date with both their rabies and distemper vaccines.

An animal with rabies could infect other wild animals or domestic animals that have not been vaccinated against rabies. All domestic animals should be vaccinated against rabies and all wildlife contact should be avoided, particularly raccoons, bats, foxes, skunks, otters, bobcats and coyotes.

Rabies is a disease of the nervous system and is fatal to warm blooded animals and humans. The only treatment for human exposure to rabies is rabies specific immune globulin and rabies immunization. Appropriate treatment started soon after the exposure, will protect an exposed person from the disease.

Important tips from officials:

  • Keep vaccinations up to date for all pets.
  • If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately.
  • Do not handle, feed, or unintentionally attract wild animals by leaving pet food outside, or garbage cans open.
  • Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
  • Teach children never to handle unfamiliar animals, wild or domestic, even if they appear friendly.
  • Prevent bats from entering living quarters or occupied spaces in homes, churches, schools, and other similar areas, where they might come in contact with people and pets.
  • If you are bitten by any animal seek care promptly. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Go to your family doctor or hospital for medical attention immediately.
  • Contact Pasco County Animal Services at (727) 834-3216, (813) 929-1212, or (352) 521-5194 to report animal bites or scratches and for information on stray dogs and cats.
  • Contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-863-648-3203 for concerns about wild animals.