When you consider furry creatures to keep as pets, have you ever considered a skunk? If you haven’t, that’s probably a good thing. While some have argued that skunks can make great household companions, most homeowners panic when they see a skunk on their property and begin thinking of ways to rid their home of the skunk. Skunks are most commonly known for the foul odor they release from their backside when they feel threatened. While this spray is unpleasant, it is the least harmful aspect of the skunk. Skunks have been known to carry diseases such as rabies and leptospirosis. Most people are aware of the rabies virus and understand that it is harmful to both humans and animals alike. In case you are unfamiliar with the virus, it is carried by mammals and will attack the central nervous system. This can cause serious infections to the brain and can even lead to death if left untreated. If a skunk is seen displaying the following behaviors, they are most likely infected by the disease:
- Walking in circles
- Staggering or disoriented
- Paralysis of their limbs
- Tameness
- Aggression
Another infection skunks can carry, but some don’t realize is a threat, is leptospirosis. This bacterial infection can be obtained through drinking contaminated water or walking in contaminated soil or mud. The bacteria can also burrow into the skin and cause infection. The bacteria can also infect the bloodstream and spread. Dogs are at the greatest risk of this bacterial infection as well as small children. For those with weak or undeveloped immune systems, the infection can become fatal. If you have noticed a skunk around your property and you have dogs, look for some of the following signs of infection:
- Lack of appetite
- Vomiting
- Depression
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
- Diarrhea
For a full list of symptoms, visit the PetMD site. If skunks have become a problem for your Howard County home, call the professionals at Mid Atlantic Wildlife Control. Our technicians will use humane and sanitary methods to remove the animals from your home and property. We are available all seven days of the week at any hour to help you with your skunk and other pest control problems. When skunks have picked your house as their home, call Mid Atlantic Wildlife Control at 443-417-3137 or click here. You can also follow us on Google+, Pinterest, Twitter, and Facebook.
Source:
http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/skunks/tips/solving_problems_skunks.html?credit=web_id87045299#Public_Health_Concerns http://www.cdc.gov/rabies/