Cases of wildlife with canine distemper increasing

Azle Animal Control has recently responded to multiple wildlife calls with animals showing symptoms of canine distemper. Most of the animals (raccoons and foxes) picked up by Azle Animal Control withpossible distemper cases have been in the area of Azle High School and the Azlewood neighborhood.

Canine distemper can infect raccoons, foxes, coyotes, skunks, and unvaccinated dogs. Infected animals may exhibit unusual behavior such as disorientation or wandering aimlessly; they may appear blind, stumble and fall; typically nocturnal animals may be seen in daylight hours; they lose their fear of humans and may become aggressive if cornered. If you see an animal acting abnormally, call Azle Animal Control IMMEDIATELY, 817-752-2681, or 817-444-3221 after hours. Do not make contact and keep your pets away.

Please consider these changes to limit you and your pets exposure:
1. Pick up outdoor food overnight
2. Be sure all trash cans and compost bins are secured
3. Be sure your dogs are currently vaccinated for canine distemper!!

Because of the sudden rise in these cases, Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP) is providing FREE DISTEMPER VACCINES at Saturday's, August 13, vaccination clinic. The clinic will be held at the old Azle Library, 609 SE Parkway, from 10 am - 12 noon. Bring your dog(s) for a free distemper vaccine! This offer also extends to the regular third Tuesday vaccine clinic on August 16.

Visit Texas Coalition for Animal Protection for more information about vaccinations.