Athol animal – A Massachusetts animal control office warned pet owners after an increase of wild animals in Athol began showing “neurological symptoms,” including falling over, stumbling, circling, and seizure-like behavior. The town urged residents to keep pets up to date o
In Athol, Massachusetts, animal control officials say more wild animals have been turning up with unsettling behavior—signs that look neurological and have pet owners paying closer attention.
North Quabbin Regional Animal Control issued a warning to residents after what it described as an increase in animals displaying “neurological symptoms.” The office said it does not believe there is a need to panic. but urged people to be careful when allowing pets outside and to never leave animals unattended outdoors.
Officials said the wild animals they’ve observed have shown symptoms such as falling over, stumbling, circling, and acting as if they are not paying attention or are not noticing humans. The warning also pointed to seizure-like symptoms.
The cases have been reported primarily in downtown Athol, as well as in the town’s Pinedale and Pequig neighborhoods. North Quabbin Regional Animal Control said it has been in contact with multiple state agencies while trying to determine what is causing the “illness.”
Alongside the behavioral warning, animal control advised pet owners to make sure their pets are up to date on rabies and distemper vaccinations.
Anyone who sees wildlife displaying odd behavior was told to call the Athol police non-emergency line at 978-249-3232.
North Quabbin Regional Animal Control did not respond to a request for comment Sunday evening about the type of wildlife potentially affected.
Massachusetts Athol animal control pets neurological symptoms wildlife rabies vaccination distemper vaccination Athol police non-emergency