While skunks are most known for their ability to emit a vile odor when confronted and feel threatened, these mammals are also known to carry a variety of diseases that may prove to be threatening to humans and pets.
If you find that skunks are invading your property or are veering close to your home, it is imperative that you seek help immediately from a professional wildlife removal service in your area. These mammals may transmit diseases through bites, scratches, urine, and feces.
Despite common belief, the foul-smelling substance squirted by these creatures are not believed to be a method of disease transmission. Continue to read this guide to learn about the most common diseases carried and transmitted by these pesky creatures.
Canine Hepatitis
Infectious canine hepatitis was first discovered in Sweden in the year of 1947. While most associate dogs as affected hosts, other animals may serve as hosts, too. These include bears, coyotes, wolves, foxes, AND skunks.
It is transmitted by coming in direct contact with the saliva, urine, and feces of those animals that are infected. If a skunk has this illness, they will exhibit several signs. These include lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea.
If you or your pet is scratched, bitten, or come in contact with the infected bodily fluids of a skunk, you may contract this illness.
Distemper
Distemper is another disease that is commonly carried by skunks. While this does not infect humans, it can be passed on to dogs, cats, and other types of domestic pets and wild animals. It is normally transmitted through contact with urine.
If you have pets, you should opt for the vaccination that helps to prevent the development of the distemper infection.
Intestinal Roundworms
If you come in contact with urine or feces of a skunk that has intestinal roundworms, you are likely to contract the condition. Additionally, you may contract it from swimming in or exposing yourself to water sources that have been contaminated from skunks with the issue.
Leptospirosis
This is a type of bacterial infection that may spread from skunks to other types of mammals, including people. If you contract this illness, you will develop symptoms that are similar to those experienced with the flu; however, serious complications may develop as the illness progresses.
These include the onset of jaundice, liver failure, the onset of kidney failure, and even death.
Rabies
Skunks are known as common carriers of the rabies virus. If a skunk is acting aggressive or seems to attack when not provoked, it may be that they have this illness. You may contract this illness if a skunk scratches or bites you. Treatment must be pursued immediately.
Wildlife Removal
If you find that there are skunks in or around your property, it is imperative that you seek help immediately. We offer skunk removal service in South Carolina or North Carolina. You should never attempt to handle these animals on your own, due to the dangers that they pose.
For assistance, contact us today at 855-465-1088.