NEWS RELEASE
Aug. 12, 2025
PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) has been receiving an increasing number of reports in recent weeks of sick or disoriented coyotes within residential neighborhoods, parks and green spaces.
Laboratory testing has confirmed the diagnosis of canine distemper, a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of both domestic and wild animals, primarily canids.
While distemper cannot infect humans, it poses a serious risk to unvaccinated dogs and certain wildlife species. Pet owners should ensure their animals are fully vaccinated, keep dogs on a leash, and avoid contact with wildlife.
Infected coyotes and foxes may display unusual behavior such as a lack of fear toward humans, stumbling, seizures, or discharge from the eyes and nose. The virus spreads through direct contact, airborne droplets, and shared food or water sources. It’s important to note that canine distemper cannot be distinguished from rabies based on clinical symptoms. To that point, it’s important to avoid approaching or touching wildlife, and report any sick or dead animals to AZGFD.
The department recommends:
- Keeping pets up to date on vaccinations.
- Avoiding feeding or handling wildlife.
- Supervising pets outdoors, especially near areas with wildlife.
AZGFD will continue to monitor the outbreak and work closely with animal health partners to minimize risks and transmission. Contact your pet’s veterinarian for more information on canine distemper.
For health questions specific to wildlife, contact Dr. Anne Justice-Allen, state wildlife veterinarian, at ajusticeallen@azgfd.gov; or Dr. Ann Fan, assistant state wildlife veterinarian, at afan@azgfd.gov. To report sick or dead wildlife, call the department’s 24-hour hotline at 623-236-7201.