The presence of canine distemper has been detected in coyotes and foxes found in Maricopa County, according to the wildlife agency.

PHOENIX — Laboratory testing has confirmed the presence of a contagious disease in sick coyotes reported in Arizona neighborhoods, according to the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

The wildlife agency said it has seen an increasing number of reports of sick and disoriented coyotes wandering around parks and residential neighborhoods, particularly in urban areas. 

The presence of canine distemper has been detected in coyotes and foxes found in Maricopa County. The viral disease is considered highly contagious and poses a serious risk to unvaccinated dogs. 

Canine distemper spreads through direct contact and airborne droplets. Humans can’t be infected.

The illness can result in coyotes stumbling around and displaying a lack of fear around humans. AZGAF advised residents to avoid wildlife and to supervise their pets outside.

(1/3) Important notice for dog owners! 🚨 We’ve received an increased number of reports in recent weeks of sick or disoriented coyotes within residential neighborhoods, parks and green spaces.

📷 File photo of a coyote, not one of the coyotes referred to in this post pic.twitter.com/wU6qlA3G80

— Arizona Game & Fish (@azgfd) August 12, 2025

>> Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.

You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12+ app!

The free 12+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like “Today in AZ” and “12 News” and our daily lifestyle program, “Arizona Midday”—on Roku, Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV.

12+  showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.

Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives.

Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for “12 News KPNX.”

Amazon Fire TV: Search for “12 News KPNX” to find the free 12+ app to add to your account, or have the 12+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.