Public health alert: distemper in urban wildlife

Arizona wildlife officials warn that canine distemper is circulating among coyotes in urban areas, risking domestic dogs.

Canine distemper in coyotes threatens Valley pets

PHOENIX — Arizona wildlife officials are sounding the alarm about canine distemper in wild coyotes in residential neighborhoods, parks and green spaces. Laboratory testing has confirmed distemper is circulating among coyotes in urban spaces. The illness is a highly contagious viral disease that can affect a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems. Humans are not at risk, but the disease can be fatal for dogs and other canids.
A Arizona Game and Fish Department statement said reports of sick or disoriented coyotes have risen in the past few weeks. The department urges pet owners to vaccinate dogs, keep them on a leash and stay away from wildlife, especially if animals show signs of distemper, such as lack of fear toward humans, appearing sick or disoriented, stumbling, seizures or eye and nasal discharge. Distemper can spread through direct contact, shared food or water, or airborne droplets. People should avoid approaching wildlife, refrain from feeding them, supervise pets outdoors and report any sick or dead animals to 623-236-7201. Local nonprofits offer low-cost distemper vaccines for pets.

The warning puts a clear, practical frame on a urban wildlife risk. It highlights that preventing disease in pets depends on simple acts: up-to-date vaccines, leashes and distance from wildlife. As cities expand toward nature, the risk to ordinary households grows, and timely, clear guidance matters more than dramatic headlines.
The story also exposes a policy question: how to balance wildlife protection with public health. Easy access to vaccines and consistent messaging from agencies can reduce risk more than scare tactics. In short, the next steps are about logistics and trust.

Highlights

Communities will adapt as wildlife science guides safer neighborhood life