Raccoon distemper epidemic threatens pets with deadly glowing green eyes

In recent months, Colorado has experienced an outbreak of distemper affecting raccoons, as reported by the Greeley Police Department. The virus is causing severe symptoms including loss of fear towards humans, confusion, seizures, and a green glowing appearance in the eyes due to mineral deposits. Residents in the city have observed raccoons acting strangely during daylight hours, showing aggressive behavior and indicating they are unwell. This outbreak is concerning because distemper is a disease typically found in dogs but is highly contagious among raccoons. Sadly, this situation has escalated to the point where sick raccoons have been spotted wandering in people's yards, prompting fears among residents about potential risks to their pets and children. Animal control has advised residents to avoid approaching raccoons exhibiting odd behaviors and to report such sightings. Reports indicate that the outbreak began in October, with Douglas County residents first raising alarms about raccoons thought to have rabies. Eyewitness accounts describe some raccoons suffering visibly, with one individual recalling a raccoon that seemed unable to move and appeared to have severely crusted eyes. The increased sightings of sick raccoons have further concluded in alarming statistics; Milwaukee's Humane Society reported receiving three times the typical number of raccoons with canine distemper so far this year. Given that distemper is one of the leading causes of death in raccoons, and with no current means for the local animal control to catch these wildlife, this situation poses ongoing risks not just for wildlife but for pets and possibly humans who come into contact with infected animals. Officials continue to emphasize the need for the public to keep their distance from wild raccoons and to ensure that domestic pets are vaccinated to prevent the spread of diseases linked to these outbreaks.