Racoon Disease in Dogs
Baylisascariasis
Most commonly called “raccoon disease” because of its prevalence in the raccoon population, baylisascariasis comes from contact with raccoon feces, and from ingesting animal tissue that is infected with the Baylisascaris procyonis parasite. This parasite is commonly referred to as roundworm. The B. procyonis larvae is found in a large part of the animal population, including humans – making this a zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be spread from an infected animal to other animal species, as well as to humans. Raccoons are the optimal carriers of this worm, since the health of the raccoon is not adversely affected, making it the ideal host and disseminator of the parasite. The B. procyonis larvae is typically spread through the fecal material into the environment. Any contact with the feces, or with soil that has been used by an infected raccoon, may lead to systemic infection. Therefore, it is essential to practice methods of avoidance and caution in areas where raccoons are prevalent.
- Symptoms and Types
- Causes
- Diagnosis
- Treatment
- Living and Management
- Prevention
February 22, 2010 No Comments
