The Oak Ridge Animal Shelter has noticed an increase in the number of reports of sick animals, or animals in distress, and the City of Oak Ridge is asking residents to notify the Oak Ridge Police Department about potentially sick wildlife.

Many of the reports involve raccoons or foxes, but other wildlife can also be affected, the city said in a press release Monday.

“Shelter staff believe these animals could be suffering from a strain of distemper,” the press release said.

“As a safety precaution, it is important that citizens do not attempt to capture wildlife on their own or transport wildlife to the animal shelter for treatment,” the press release said. “This is recommended to avoid possible injury to humans and animals as well as preventing the spread of disease or infection.” [Read more…]