Raccoon Roundworm: A Threat to Your Pet’s Health and Home Safety

Posted on January 28, 2025 by admin

Raccoons might seem harmless as they scavenge through your trash or wander through your yard, but they can pose a significant risk to both your pets and your family. One of the lesser-known dangers associated with raccoons is raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis). This zoonotic disease can infect pets, and in rare cases, humans, leading to severe health issues.

If you’re a pet owner or homeowner, understanding the risks, recognizing symptoms, and taking preventive actions can protect your loved ones and maintain the safety of your home. This blog will guide you through what raccoon roundworm is, how it spreads, and how to safeguard your pets and property.

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What is Raccoon Roundworm?

Raccoon roundworm is a parasite commonly found in raccoons, particularly in North America. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as many as 70–80% of raccoons in some areas are infected. While raccoons are the natural host of this parasite, other mammals, including dogs and cats, can accidentally ingest roundworm eggs and become infected.

The eggs are primarily shed in raccoon feces, where they can last for years if conditions are favorable. Once ingested, the larvae migrate through the body, potentially causing organ damage or neurological issues. This makes roundworm not only a threat to pet health but also a concern for human safety.

Understanding the Life Cycle of Raccoon Roundworm

To appreciate the risks posed by raccoon roundworm, understanding its life cycle is essential. Pets, especially curious dogs that roam outdoors, are at higher risk of accidental ingestion, making preventive measures critical for their well-being.

Egg Shedding: Raccoons infected with roundworm shed millions of eggs in their feces. These eggs are not immediately infectious but become so within 2–4 weeks after being deposited.
Transmission: Eggs can contaminate soil, water, or surfaces where raccoons frequent, such as gardens, backyards, or even attics. Pets are often exposed when they sniff or eat contaminated soil, grass, or even raccoon feces.
Larval Migration: Once ingested, the eggs hatch into larvae inside the host’s intestine. These larvae can migrate to other tissues, including the brain, eyes, and spinal cord, causing severe health problems.

Signs and Symptoms of Raccoon Roundworm Infection in Pets

Early identification of infection in pets is crucial to prevent long-term health complications. However, raccoon roundworm infections are often tricky to diagnose, as symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the larval migration.

Common Signs to Watch Out For:

Digestive Issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, or a bloated abdomen.
Behavioral Changes: Unusual lethargy, restlessness, or aggression.
Neurological Symptoms: Tremors, loss of coordination, or partial paralysis indicate severe cases.

If you notice these symptoms in your pet, immediate veterinary attention is critical. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent further complications.

How to Protect Your Pets from Raccoon Roundworm

Fortunately, there are numerous steps you can take to protect your pets and minimize the risk of exposure to raccoon roundworm.

1. Secure Outdoor Spaces

Raccoons are drawn to food sources near homes. Keep outdoor dining areas clean, store trash in raccoon-proof containers, and remove pet food or birdseed from your yard to discourage raccoon visits.

2. Dispose of Waste Safely

Raccoon feces are the primary source of roundworm eggs. Use gloves to handle and safely dispose of any feces found on your property. Clean contaminated areas with boiling water or a torch flame to kill the eggs.

3. Regular Veterinary Check-Ups

A consistent veterinary care schedule can help identify potential infections early. Your vet may recommend de-worming treatments, which can address and prevent various parasitic infections, including roundworm.

4. Avoid Contact with Raccoons

Never approach or feed raccoons. Teach children to avoid unfamiliar animals and discourage your pets from chasing them.

5. Use Raccoon Repellent

Commercial raccoon repellents or natural deterrents, such as ammonia-soaked rags, can help keep raccoons away from your property. Sprinkle repellents around garden beds, trash cans, and entry points.

6. Keep Your Home Animal-Proof

Inspect your home for potential raccoon entry points, such as gaps in the roof, vents, or chimneys. Seal these areas to prevent raccoons from nesting in your attic or crawl spaces.

The Importance of Early Detection and Treatment

If your pet is exposed to raccoon roundworm, early detection can make all the difference. Your veterinarian may perform stool tests, imaging, or bloodwork to confirm the presence and severity of the infection. With appropriate anti-parasitic treatments and supportive care, most pets recover well.

Ignoring the problem can lead to escalating health issues that might result in more invasive medical treatments or permanent damage. Staying vigilant and acting quickly ensures the best outcome for your fur family.

Expert Tips on Managing Nuisance Raccoons

Dealing with raccoons on your property requires a proactive approach.

DIY Strategies

Secure Food and Shelter: Remove food scraps, secure trash bins, and block nesting sites in attics or decks.
Install Motion-Activated Deterrents: Devices like sprinkler systems or lights can scare raccoons off your property.

When to Call a Professional Wildlife Control Service

If DIY methods fail, it’s time to consult a professional wildlife control service. Experts can safely and humanely remove raccoons from your property while addressing potential roundworm risks. Look for licensed specialists who adhere to ethical wildlife management practices.

Final Thoughts

Raccoon roundworm poses a real threat to your pets, family, and home, but prevention and early action can make all the difference. By securing your property, avoiding contact with raccoons, and prioritizing your pet’s health through regular veterinary visits, you can significantly reduce the risks.

If you’re unsure about handling a raccoon problem or suspect an infection in your pet, don’t hesitate to consult a licensed wildlife control operator or your trusted veterinarian. Taking these simple yet effective precautions will keep your pets happy, healthy, and safe.

Start protecting your pets today and check out additional resources on zoonotic diseases and wildlife control from the CDC or ASPCA.

Are you seeing too many raccoons around your house each night? Contact our wildlife control operators at 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon removal services you can trust.

The Hidden Dangers and Health Risks of Wild Raccoons

Posted on September 16, 2024 by admin

Raccoons have become a common sight in urban and suburban areas, often charming us with their bandit-like masks and dexterous paws. However, these seemingly harmless creatures can pose significant health risks to both people and property. This blog post explores the growing concerns surrounding raccoon infestations and provides valuable insights for homeowners, business owners, and property managers alike. By the end of this post, you’ll not only understand the dangers of nuisance raccoons but also how to safeguard your property and health.

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Growing Concerns of Raccoon Infestations

Over recent years, raccoon populations have surged, particularly in urban and suburban environments. The adaptive nature of these animals allows them to thrive in areas where they can easily find food and shelter. Unfortunately, this proximity to human habitats raises several concerns, especially as raccoons continue to encroach upon residential and commercial properties.

The increase in raccoon infestations is not only an inconvenience but also a potential hazard. Their presence can lead to a host of problems, from minor nuisances to serious health risks. Understanding these challenges is the first step in addressing the issue. With their natural habitats shrinking, raccoons are forced to seek out new territories—often leading them to our backyards and attics.

Addressing raccoon infestations requires a proactive approach. By recognizing the risks associated with these creatures and understanding how to mitigate them, property owners can protect their assets and well-being.

Risks Posed by Raccoons

While raccoons might seem harmless at first glance, they can be carriers of various zoonotic diseases. These are illnesses that can be transmitted from animals to humans, posing a risk to those who come into contact with infected creatures or their waste. One of the most well-known dangers associated with raccoons is the Rabies virus. This disease affects the central nervous system, and if left untreated, it is almost always fatal. Raccoons serve as a major vector for this virus, putting pets and humans at risk if bitten or scratched.

Apart from direct health risks, raccoons can also cause considerable property damage. Their strong claws and teeth allow them to tear through roofing, siding, and insulation, causing costly repairs. Additionally, their habit of raiding tras h bins can lead to unsanitary conditions and attract other pests.

It’s important for property owners to stay informed about the potential health threats posed by raccoons. Awareness is the key to prevention, allowing individuals to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their property from these nuisance animals.

Common Diseases Spread By Raccoons

Rabies

Rabies is perhaps the most notorious disease associated with raccoons. The virus is transmitted through saliva, typically via bites or scratches. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. Homeowners should ensure their pets are vaccinated and exercise caution when dealing with raccoons to minimize the risk of exposure.

Distemper

Distemper is highly contagious and can affect a variety of animals, including raccoons. This viral disease attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems and can be fatal if left untreated. The symptoms of distemper include fever, nasal discharge, lethargy, and neurological issues.

Roundworm

Raccoons are also known carriers of Baylisascaris procyonis, a type of roundworm. This parasite can be present in raccoon feces, and if ingested by humans, it can lead to severe neurological damage. Children and pets are particularly vulnerable, making it crucial for property owners to maintain a sanitary environment.

Leptospirosis

Another health risk is leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through contaminated water or soil. Symptoms range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe complications such as liver damage. Raccoons are known carriers of this bacteria, further emphasizing the importance of effective raccoon control measures.

Understanding these health risks underscores the need for vigilance in raccoon management. By being informed about the potential dangers, property owners can better protect themselves and their families from these zoonotic threats and reduce the risk of raccoon diseases spreading in their communities.

Recognizing Raccoon Activity on Your Property

Being able to identify signs of raccoon activity is crucial for early intervention. Raccoons are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active at night. However, there are telltale signs that can indicate their presence, even during daylight hours.

One of the most common indicators is overturned trash cans or scattered garbage. Raccoons are notorious scavengers, and their search for food often leads to messy situations. If you frequently find your garbage disrupted, it may be time to investigate further.

Look for footprints or tracks around your property. Raccoon tracks have a distinct five-fingered pattern, resembling small human hands. These prints can usually be found near entry points or along pathways raccoons use to access food sources.

Finally, listen for unusual noises, particularly in attic spaces. Scratching, thumping, or chattering sounds could suggest that raccoons have taken up residence in your home. Prompt identification of these signs can prevent further damage and allow you to take swift action.

Best Practices for Preventing and Managing Raccoon Infestations

Taking proactive steps to prevent raccoon infestations is crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy environment. Simple measures can make a significant difference in deterring these nuisance animals from invading your property.

Securing garbage bins is one of the most effective deterrents. Use heavy-duty lids and fasteners to prevent raccoons from accessing your trash. Additionally, consider storing bins in a secure location, such as a shed or garage, to minimize temptation.

Another important practice is eliminating potential nesting sites. Raccoons are adept at finding shelter in attics, crawl spaces, and chimneys. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and seal entry points, reducing the likelihood of raccoons taking up residence.

For those facing persistent raccoon problems, seeking professional exclusion services may be necessary. Raccoon control experts can assess your property, implement humane removal strategies, and provide ongoing support to prevent future infestations.

Conclusion

The presence of nuisance raccoons in urban and suburban areas poses a variety of health and property risks. From zoonotic diseases like rabies and roundworm to costly property damage, it’s essential for property owners to take proactive measures in managing raccoon infestations.

By staying informed about the dangers associated with raccoons and implementing best practices for prevention, individuals can protect their homes, businesses, and communities. Understanding the risks and recognizing early signs of raccoon activity are key components of effective management.

If you’re facing challenges with raccoon infestations, don’t hesitate to reach out to a raccoon control service. Professional assistance can provide peace of mind and ensure that your property remains safe and secure.

Let’s work together to keep our homes raccoon-free! Contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal at 317-535-4605 for licensed and insured raccoon control services in Indianapolis, Indiana, and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial properties at the most competitive prices around.

How to Racoon Proof Your Home in 5 Easy Steps

Posted on June 16, 2023 by admin

Are raccoons wreaking havoc in your home and garden? If so, don’t worry – there are steps you can take to protect yourself from these pesky critters. Raccoon proofing your home is a must if you want to keep them out for good. Continue reading to learn five easy steps you can take to ensure that your property stays raccoon-free.

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A 5 Step Raccoon Proof Guide Anyone Can Do

1. Remove food sources: Raccoons are scavengers and will find any available food source they can. Make sure to keep garbage, pet food, bird feeders, and gardens out of reach. Secure lids on bins so that raccoons cannot access the contents and store all outdoor pet food indoors at night.

2. Secure or cover compost bins: Compost bins can be a great temptation for raccoons due to their easy access to rotting foods. To prevent an infestation, secure your compost bin with a heavy duty latch or cover it with a tarp when not in use.

3. Seal entry points: Raccoons are incredibly dexterous animals and can fit through holes as small as 4 inches. Inspect your home’s foundation and walls for entry points, then seal them with caulk or metal flashing. Make sure to check around windows, doors, chimneys, vents, and any other potential entry point.

4. Trim trees close to the house: Raccoons are excellent climbers and will use tree branches as a bridge to get into your attic or upper levels of your home. Be sure to regularly trim branches from trees that are within 10 feet of your roofline.

5. Install a motion-activated sprinkler: If raccoons have already taken up residence in your yard, consider installing a motion-activated sprinkler system to scare them away when they approach unwanted areas of your property.

Raccoon Proofing Tips You Can Use Year-Round

By following these five steps, your home will be greatly protected from raccoons and any other animals that may try to invade your space. Remember, prevention is key for successful animal proofing so make sure to regularly check around your home for potential entry points and keep food sources stored securely. With the right precautions in place, you can rest assured that your property stays raccoon-free!

Choose Professional Raccoon Removal and Control Service

Now that you know how to raccoon proof your home in 5 easy steps, why not contact a local professional for additional help with raccoon abatement? Professional raccoon control in Indianapolis offer humane methods of trapping and exclusion, as well as advice on preventing future infestations. They also provide cleanup services that can help restore your home’s safety and cleanliness. Contact a local wildlife removal service to remove any existing raccoons in your home and protect it for the long-term from future intruders. Not only will raccoon proofing keep your property safe, but it will also safeguard your family from potential diseases that raccoons can spread, such as rabies, distemper, roundworm, and leptospirosis.

Are you ready to get rid of raccoons safely and protect your property from future nuisance animal problems? Contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal at 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon control services you can trust.

The Dangers of Raccoons: What You Need to Know

Posted on March 27, 2023 by admin

Raccoons are cute, but they can be dangerous too. While these furry critters may look harmless, it’s important to know the risks associated with nuisance raccoons and how to protect yourself from them. In this blog post, we will cover the dangers of raccoon encounters including diseases they carry, tips for raccoon removal, and raccoon control measures you should take if you have a raccoon infestation in your home. Knowing what threats raccoons pose is essential for protecting your family and pets from potential harm.

Continue reading to learn more about the risks posed by these common nuisance animals!

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Raccoon Diseases

When it comes to raccoon diseases, there are several that you should be aware of. The most common and serious is Rabies, which can be contracted through contact with a raccoon or its saliva. Other diseases include roundworm, leptospirosis, and salmonella, all of which can cause severe illness in humans. If you ever come across a raccoon that appears sickly or looks lethargic, do not approach the animal, and call your local Indiana wildlife control agency for assistance.

Raccoon Removal

If you already have an infestation of raccoons in your home or property, it’s important to act quickly to remove them before they cause more damage or spread disease. Professional raccoon removal services can help you humanely remove raccoons from your property. They can also help with any necessary repairs and cleanup that may be required after the animals are removed.

Raccoon Proofing

Once the raccoons have been removed, it’s important to take steps to prevent future infestations. Raccoon-proof your home by sealing up any openings or access points they may use to get in, such as chimneys, attics, and vents. If these areas cannot be sealed off, consider installing an electric fence around your property to keep raccoons away. Additionally, secure all garbage cans tightly and don’t leave pet food or bird seed outside overnight as this will attract raccoons looking for a free meal.

You can also make a homemade raccoon repellent spray. The ingredients you’ll need are easy to find and can likely be found in your kitchen pantry. These include water, white vinegar, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and dish soap. You can also use menthol oil, capsaicin oil, or putrescent egg. Just combine the ingredients of your choosing in a spray bottle and then apply it to raccoon-prone areas, like gardens or trash cans. Reapplication every couple weeks should be enough to keep raccoons away for good! Be sure to keep kids and pets away from any treated areas.

Protect Your Property and Loved Ones With Raccoon Control and Awareness

By being aware of the risks associated with raccoons and taking preventative measures to control and remove them from your property, you can ensure your family is safe from any potential harm. If you want to get rid of raccoons in the Indianapolis area, your best option is to hire a qualified critter control company for expert removal services. Such teams are licensed and insured, so that you can have confidence that the job will be done properly.

So, call a professional Indianapolis raccoon removal service if you ever need assistance with getting rid of raccoons. They will have the proper knowledge, experience, and equipment to handle the situation safely.

Are you ready to skip the hassle of animal-proofing against raccoons yourself? Contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal at 317-535-4605 for licensed and insured raccoon control services in Indianapolis, Indiana, and its surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial properties at the most competitive prices around.

Do Raccoons Carry Fleas?

Posted on January 21, 2022 by admin

Raccoons are wild animals that live in or near wooded and forested areas. Any animal that comes in contact with plants, trees, bushes, and brush are vulnerable to insect bites. Ticks and fleas are no different. If a raccoon gets into your home, there is a good chance they are carrying fleas, ticks, and even diseases that can infect your family and pets. There are various contagious infections that raccoons, fleas, and ticks can pass along to other people and animals.

Continue reading to learn about some of these risks and what to do if you ever experience a similar situation.

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The Link Between Fleas and Raccoons

If you notice that your home is all of a sudden infested with fleas, yet you do not have a pet, there could be a raccoon colony living somewhere within your house. Attics and crawl spaces are perfect breeding grounds for raccoons to use a shelter from harsh winter weather. Living within these quarters gives them access to spread infection and disease, such as fleas.

Fleas can move fast and jump far. They live on raccoons and move onto other hosts as they grow. Raccoons can indeed carry fleas; and they can find their way into your home and pets too! Be sure to outsource quick and effective raccoon removal if you have raccoons in the attic. This is the first step to getting rid of fleas in your home.

There are several flea removal solutions and preventative sprays on the market that anyone can purchase at their local grocer or home goods store. They are helpful to sanitize and kill existing flea infestations, as well as, preventing more fleas from being able to thrive within your home.

Raccoons Can Carry Ticks Too

Ticks are more intimidating than fleas. Although fleas will bite and make you itch, ticks can carry diseases just like raccoons. Lyme disease is a common threat transmitted from tick bites, as well as a range of fevers. Ticks will use raccoons, dogs, cats, and other animals as hosts. They are highly infectious and can harm their host overtime.

If you are discovering ticks on your pets, or have just had a raccoon in your home, be sure to take precaution and keep an open eye for more ticks. You can have a professional exterminator inspect and fumigate your home, or you can purchase over the counter solutions and traps to get rid of ticks.

Other Possible Raccoon Parasites:

▷ Mites
▷ Lice
▷ Roundworm
▷ Tapeworm

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Common Traits of a Rabid Raccoon

Posted on November 22, 2021 by admin

Do you see raccoons on or around your property regularly? Have you been concerned about the potential risk for contracting Rabies through a raccoon bite or scratch? Continue reading to learn what a an actively rabid raccoon looks like, as well as some pertinent facts about raccoons and the Rabies Virus.

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Raccoons are a Rabies Vector Species (RVS)

Raccoons are stunning in appearance and have been known to make fun lovable pets; but there is another side to raccoons we must all be aware of. Unfortunately, raccoons are classified as a Rabies Vector Species (RVS) in most states, which means they are a species of wildlife capable of carrying and transmitting the Rabies Virus to humans and other animals. Although all mammals can become infected with rabies, raccoons are more at risk because their bodies can act as reservoirs for the virus.

If a human or animal is bitten by a raccoon, whether it’s rabid or not, they must call animal control and immediately seek medical attention. Always behave as if a wild animal is carrying a disease if ever attacked or bitten. If a person or another pet is bitten by a dog that has not had a rabies vaccination, always behave as if the dog is carrying the virus and seek immediate medical care, just in case.

How to Tell if a Raccoon is Rabid

Even though you should always take action as if a wild animal is rabid, it is good knowledge to know what one looks like. A healthy raccoon should be out at night, or dusk. Also, they should appear healthy, walk straight, and seem as though they have an agenda. A healthy raccoon should exhibit all characteristics that a mammal in good condition would. Now, as for a rabid raccoon, the signs are not so pretty.

Here are the signs that a raccoon is infected with the rabies virus:

⚠ The raccoon cannot walk straight or has trouble walking. They might even appear to be intoxicated or confused and might also be walking in circles.

⚠ The raccoon appears confused, disoriented, or reacting slow. The raccoon is making strange sounds and noises. A little chit chatter with other coons is normal, but strange noises while out and about is not.

⚠ The raccoon is foaming at the mouth or has an abnormal amount of saliva. The raccoon may look like its drooling excessively. But no one should ever be close enough to a raccoon to see the foam in their mouths!

⚠ The raccoon looks ill, weak, or dying. The raccoon is out during the daytime hours. Although a healthy raccoon can do this from time to time, if a raccoon is demonstrating any of the above signs in addition to being out during the day, it may be rabid.

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Are Raccoon Droppings Toxic?

Posted on October 18, 2021 by admin

If you have a healthy raccoon population in your community, you likely have spotted a few in and around your property. But, if you are noticing a recent increase in raccoon behavior on your premises, you can safely assume they are using every square inch of it as their own personal restroom. The problem is that raccoon droppings are not something you want your loved ones or your pets to be around.

Continue reading to learn why raccoon droppings can be toxic and dangerous, as well as how to get rid of raccoons if they are becoming a constant problem around your Central Indiana home.

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Raccoon Scat Can Pose Several Health Risks

There are many health risks involved with being exposed to or coming into contact with raccoon droppings, often times referred to as raccoon scat. Anyone dealing with raccoon scat should take precaution. One health risk associated with raccoon scat is roundworm. Most people would have guessed rabies, but rabies is transferred through saliva, not fecal and urine matter.

Roundworm will lay eggs in the raccoon droppings and the eggs can be picked up by humans or pets. Accidentally ingesting these eggs will result in violent nausea, blindness, organ failure, and even death. Entering a raccoon den or an area that has been contaminated by raccoons is not for a novice. It needs to be handled with the correct care and attention of a professional.

Take Precaution When Confronted With a Raccoon Mess

One important aspect to note about raccoon removal from attics or other areas is to never actually touch or pick up the raccoon scat or any mess left behind from nesting or playing. These are contaminated items and can easily be picked up by humans and pets, as well as carried through the air vent systems in the home or property.

When professionals complete a raccoon removal job in Indianapolis, they wear proper gear and uniform to protect themselves from these contaminates. Usually, ordinary families do not have this type of professional equipment on hand for these situations, so extra precaution is advised.

The sooner you realize you have a raccoon in the attic or other part of your property, to immediately take care of the situation. The longer raccoons reside inside these cavities, the more damage and health risks they cause.

Hire an Indianapolis Wildlife Removal Company to Get Rid of Raccoons

Always enlist the services of a professional, DNR licensed and insured Indianapolis critter control company to get rid of raccoons, safely. They have the necessary equipment, industry knowledge and training, as well as the correct licenses to remove and relocate raccoons.

Often times, critter control companies can also offer restoration and repair services alongside their raccoon removal services. Be sure to contact your homeowners’ insurance company to check what your coverage is regarding raccoon damages in your attic and crawl spaces.

Are you having trouble getting rid of raccoons in or around your Indiana property? Contact us at 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon removal services you can trust. We serve residential and commercial clients all throughout Central Indiana.

Can I Get Ebola From a Raccoon?

Posted on May 25, 2021 by admin

Ebola is a dangerous and scary virus. So, when another news story of an outbreak or occurrence airs, it is natural for the community to be fearful. Many people assume that Ebola is carried and transmitted by dirt, pest-like animals, such as raccoons and bats. Namely with raccoons, there is a lot of misconceptions about the illnesses they commonly carry and transmit, and how. If you are spotting raccoons in your neighborhood, do not fear. Just contact a local animal removal service for assistance.

In the meantime, continue reading to learn the truth about wild raccoons and the Ebola virus, including facts you need to know and methods of raccoon control you can use.

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Learn About Raccoons and Rabies

The rumors of raccoons and the Ebola viruses being connected in some way mostly have to do with the comparisons made between Rabies and Ebola. Rabies is a common, life-threatening disease that is publicly linked to raccoons because raccoons, and bats, are species of mammals that most often carry the virus, or become infected with it. The reason why Rabies and Ebola have been discussed together is that they share a lot of similar qualities. Both viruses are nearly lethal for humans, and most certainly lethal for other animals, like dogs and cats.

Since they are equally dangerous, they are equally feared as well, giving them something else in common. Also, it is difficult to become infected by these viruses. Not only is the likelihood small, but the chances of coming in contact with such virus is rare. Unlike colds and flu viruses that can be spread through respiratory transmissions, a person, or animal, must have direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected subject. It cannot be contracted through a simple cough or sneeze. One major difference, on the other hand, is that Ebola has the capacity to evolve and change, whereas Rabies does not.

How to Manage Raccoons Around Your Area

A person should not be scared to contract the Ebola virus from a raccoon, considering there have been no reports of such events taking place. But people should always beware of raccoons because they commonly carry contagious and infectious diseases that can kill or injure a living being including pets. If you spot a raccoon on your property, contact an Indianapolis raccoon removal company for immediate service. It is strongly suggested for homes near wooded areas, or city areas, to raccoon-proof your property to avoid a raccoon problem in the future.

Are you seeing too many raccoons around your house each night? Contact Indianapolis Raccoon Removal at 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon removal services you can trust.

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How to Respond to a Wild Raccoon Attack

Posted on March 23, 2021 by admin

Raccoons are very intelligent and ambitious creatures. They are known to trespass onto residential and commercial properties for the purpose of finding food or shelter. When this happens, property owners become worried that they are at risk of a raccoon attack. In most cases, raccoons will not attack unless they are incessantly provoked; even then, they are still unlikely to attack. The most common circumstances in which a raccoon attack another human or animal is if the raccoon is ill or protecting their young. However, this does not mean that the raccoon attacks do not occur. If you or your pet is attacked by a raccoon, it is important to take immediate action.

Continue reading to learn you should do in such a case, and how to protect your home from raccoon intrusions.

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Attacks on Humans

Because raccoons are common carriers of several dangerous and infectious diseases, you must act quickly if you ever scratched or bitten by raccoon. Not only do raccoons carry infectious diseases, but their saliva is also full of bacteria that can be extremely dangerous if it somehow enters your bloodstream, either through an existing open wound, eyes, or mouth. That is why it is important to immediately visit a nearby walk-in clinic or emergency room regardless of how minor you think your injuries may be. You may require vaccinations or medication to prevent illness and infection.

Attacks on Dogs and Cats

Pets like dogs and cats may come into contact with the wild raccoon and anytime. If they come in contact with the wrong raccoon, they could experience an attack as well. In fact, it is more common for dogs to be attacked by raccoons that it is for humans because dogs are curious and tend to provoke raccoons more than humans do.

In the case that your doctor is bitten or injured by a wild raccoon, you must immediately take them to your vet. If your veterinarian offices closed, take them to a 24 hour emergency veterinary clinic. An accident like this cannot wait till the next morning so be sure you use a 24 hour clinic is your vet offices closed.

Nuisance Raccoon Control Tips

Contact a local Indianapolis raccoon control company if you are experiencing raccoon problems near your home or property. Professional raccoon removal services are the wisest and most effective choice for anyone that needs to get rid of raccoons. Be sure to only use a company that practices safe and non-lethal methods of raccoon control.

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Communicable Diseases That Can Be Carried By Raccoons

Posted on April 24, 2020 by admin

Wild raccoons are common carriers of various infectious and transmittable diseases. These maladies are unfavorable ailments to contract and treat. In humans, most of these communicable diseases are treatable, but nonetheless painful and unpleasant. In pets, the more serious infections are difficult to treat and are sometimes incurable.

Continue reading to learn some interesting and helpful facts about common transmittable raccoon diseases, and who to call to remove nuisance raccoons from your residential or commercial property.

Rabies Virus

Almost everyone has heard the term, “rabies”, before. If you have seen ravenous dogs foaming at the mouth on television, this is most likely the directors take on a rabid animal. The truth is that rabies is not a disease to brush off as a light matter. It is a very real and common threat to our outdoor pets, as well as, us and our children. The rabies virus can be transmitted through saliva or other bodily secretions such a blood. If mixed or ingested with another person or animal’s system, the disease can be born and can also be fatal.

Rabies vaccinations are available to the public and for pets. It is strongly suggested to take advantage of such vaccinations; especially if you have kids and pets, and live near wooded areas or communities. Other treatments include several infections, shots, immunizations, and medication. Unfortunately, in animals, rabies is almost always fatal.

Leptospirosis Bacterial Infection

The bacterium known as Leptospirosis is another infection that can be transmitted by wild raccoons. This bacterium is carried in raccoon urine, and can be accidentally digested or contacted by humans and pets. Most of the time, contaminated water that comes into contact with the skin, eyes, nose, throat, or mouth is how the infection in contracted.

The infection causes influenza-like symptoms such as fever, core throat, coughing, and fatigue. It can also cause serious liver and kidney problems, which is why it is important to seek treatment as soon as you are aware there is something wrong. This disease does not have to be fatal so long as preventative care and treatment are implemented.

Baylisascaris Infection (Roundworm)

Roundworm is a very unpleasant disease that is also commonly carried and spread by wild raccoons. The Baylisascaris eggs are laid in raccoon feces, and spread by consumption or contact. People and animals can unintentionally swallow these eggs in water or soil. Because of this, children who play outside and pets are higher at risk for roundworm infection. Symptoms include fatigue, loss of muscle control and coordination, dizziness, and at worse stages, coma or blindness. Although this infection is rare to contract, a large percentage of North American raccoons are carriers of this bacterium.

Indianapolis Raccoon Removal and Control You Can Trust

Call 317-535-4605 for Indianapolis raccoon removal and control services you can trust. We are DNR licensed and insured nuisance wildlife removal contractors who offer a wide range of raccoon removal and control services, including raccoon cleanup, raccoon proofing, minor restorations for raccoon damages, and more. Request a free estimate or emergency service, today.