Veterinary Public Health
Distemper in Gray Foxes 2007-2008
Outbreak Summary
Between November 2007 and April 2008, Monrovia Animal Control and the Pasadena Humane Society reported 34 Gray Foxes either found dead or sick along the foothills of the Angeles National Forest. See map at right.
In one case, a complete necropsy arranged by Los Angeles County Veterinary Public Health confirmed infection with Distemper virus. Several other foxes had symptoms compatible with Distemper.
Distemper is highly contagious amongst dogs, foxes, coyotes, raccoons, and skunks and can cause die-offs in wildlife.
Protecting Pets
Foxes are often attracted to populated areas in order to get to food. Easily accessible food, such as pet food left outdoors, may encourage a fox to frequently visit a property (even if there is a risk of a confrontation with a dog). A fox may contaminate food bowls with Distemper virus and pass the virus to dogs. Or a fox may catch the virus from a sick dog through contact with contaminated food bowls and surfaces.
This virus is NOT contagious to people.
This outbreak serves a good reminder to keep all pet food indoors and to make sure all dogs are properly vaccinated against Distemper.