Arlington Wildlife Precautionary Notice Coincides with World Wildlife Day

By Carol Weemes, Animal Services

Posted on March 04, 2022, March 04, 2022

Arlington is full of amazing wildlife and a dream environment for nature enthusiasts and photographers. But, with nature’s beauty, precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of people and pets. World Wildlife Day observed each year on March 3 was initiated to raise awareness of the world’s animals and plants.

The wildlife hot topic this week is about an outbreak of distemper in raccoons and foxes in the area. In February, reports to Animal Services resulted in pick-up of 18 afflicted raccoons. The winter of 2018-2019 had a similar reporting history.

“While is isn’t abnormal to see wildlife active during the day, if it appears ill or disoriented, report it.” said Ray Rentschler, Animal Services field operations manager. “The most important thing you can do as a responsible pet owner is to make sure your pet’s rabies and distemper shots are kept current. The vaccinations provide a protective barrier between pets and these diseases.”

Rentschler also advises to keep pet food and water bowls indoors, because diseases are transmissible through infected animals’ saliva.

Watch the Q&A with Brittany & Ray episode 36 video for additional information about signs of distemper in a raccoon or fox, ways to protect yourself, your pets, and more.

Community Partner Texas Coalition for Animal Protection (TCAP) is offering free distemper vaccines for Arlington pet owners during the month of March, and Rabies vaccines are $5. Visit the TCAP website Vaccination Clinic Schedule for more information and to confirm rates and locations.

Animal Services’ Facebook page offers ongoing education about wildlife with its ‘Wildlife Wednesdays’ for those interested, and the city’s urban wildlife website features a story map with interactive maps with information about Arlington wildlife.

Let Wildlife be Wild T-shirts are available with a donation to support Animal Services education programs.