Pinellas County Animal Services is advising locals and out-of-towners not to bring their dogs to Fort DeSoto. At least for now.
According to ABC Action News, authorities say two raccoons living at the popular Tierra Verde park have tested positive for canine distemper. Puppies — as well as older, ill and unvaccinated pooches — could be at risk for catching the serious virus, which is highly contagious.
Dog owners are warned to stay clear of Fort DeSoto until further testing is done on other trash pandas, reports ABC Action News.
Park visitors who come across an animal that appears sick should avoid contact and call a ranger, or the county's Parks & Conservation Resources department.
This article appears in Jan 17-24, 2019.