Updated
Updated · Boston.com · May 31
Athol Animal Control Warns Pet Owners After Rise in Wild Animals With Neurological Symptoms
Updated
Updated · Boston.com · May 31

Athol Animal Control Warns Pet Owners After Rise in Wild Animals With Neurological Symptoms

2 articles · Updated · Boston.com · May 31

Summary

  • North Quabbin Regional Animal Control warned Athol residents to keep pets attended outdoors after a growing number of wild animals showed falling, stumbling, circling and seizure-like behavior.
  • Downtown Athol and the Pinedale and Pequig neighborhoods have seen most of the cases, with officials saying the cause of the apparent illness is still under review.
  • Multiple state agencies are now in contact with local animal control, which urged owners to keep rabies and distemper vaccinations current.
  • Anyone spotting wildlife acting abnormally was asked to call Athol police's non-emergency line at 978-249-3232, as officials seek more reports and monitor the spread.

Insights

Could the strange animal sickness in Athol be a warning of a new human health threat?
What mystery illness is making wildlife stumble and seize in a Massachusetts town?