Prospect Park

ADVISORY: NYC PARKS AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT ADVISE DOG OWNERS VISITING PROSPECT PARK TO KEEP DOGS ON LEASH

Dog owners encouraged to keep dogs safe and away from raccoon

NYC Parks and Health Department, out of an abundance of caution related to the identification of canine distemper virus in raccoons collected from Prospect Park, today issued an advisory strongly recommending that visiting dogs be kept on leashes to reduce the risk of unintended contact with raccoons. Two sick raccoons were collected in the park and have tested positive for the virus; and two others collected have been sent for testing.

Canine distemper virus is not a threat to humans, but unvaccinated dogs, raccoons, skunks and other wildlife can be affected.

Signs are being posted in the park to alert visitors. The advisory is in effect until further notice. Parks and Health will continue to monitor the situation.

If the public sees a sick or injured raccoon they are asked to call 311 and request the NYC Parks Rangers to address. For more information on canine distemper, please visit NYC.gov/Health.