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The associations between the Stick test, Feeding test and Subjective evaluation of the temperament were tested in 214 juvenile Finnraccoons, raised in five different housing conditions, which varied in relation to group size and composition, available area, animal density and level of enrichment. The stick test and Feeding test were carried out once, but Subjective evaluation was carried out by six assessors, in pairs. In the Stick test, 57 % of the animals explored the novel stick in a curious way, 13 % bite the stick in an aggressive way and 3 % actively avoided the stick in a fearful way. In the feeding test, 79 % of the animals ate within 30 s in the presence of human, being interpreted as confident. The animals classified as Aggressive or Curious in the Stick test ate more probably in the Feeding test than those classified as Fearful. In the Subjective evaluation of the temperament, majority of the animals were classified as confident; the percentage of Confident animals varied from 60 % to 85 % between the six assessors. The inter-assessor reliabilities between the assessor pairs doing testing at the same time varied from poor to excellent (Cohen's kappa from 0.39 to 0.85). The higher percentage of assessors that classified the animal as Confident, the more probably the animal ate in the Feeding test. The agreement between the Subjective evaluation of the temperament and the outcome of the Stick test was poor (Cohen's kappa below 0.40). We could not detect any effect of the housing condition on the results. The results show that all tests measure the same aspects of temperament, especially fearfulness. In the Feeding test and Subjective evaluation of the temperament, the Finnraccoons' response is affected mainly by their confidence towards human. • Finnraccoons are relatively confident animals. • Reliability of subjective evaluation of temperament must be improved. • Stick test, Feeding test and Subjective evaluation show fearfulness similarly. • Subjective evaluation and Feeding test measure confidence similarly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious diseases at the wildlife–livestock-human interface have become a crucial issue, and evidence-based measures are growing increasingly important. One countermeasure against animal diseases in wildlife is using fencing to contain and reduce disease spread and transmission rates between wild populations; however, quantitative assessments on fencing are rare. Moreover, existing research on fencing has highlighted knowledge gaps on the social and ecological aspects relevant to the use and design of fences. To control the spread of classical swine fever, fences were installed from the east to west in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, by March 2019, with the aim of restricting wild boar movement. To clarify the process of installation and maintenance of the fences, we conducted semi-structured interviews with prefectural government officers in Gifu Prefecture. Additionally, we installed infrared-triggered cameras at fence locations with and without gaps to evaluate the fence permeability of mammals. We used a generalized linear mixed model to evaluate the relationship between the presence of gaps and the relative abundance and permeability of each mammal. Our findings showed that the occurrence of gaps was inevitable during the installation and management of wide-area perimeter fence in Japan, partly because of social factors. For example, fences could not be installed on roads that were frequently used by residents and were not adequately maintained owing to budgetary reasons in some cases. Analysis of footage from the infrared-triggered cameras revealed that several mammal species crossed the fence at gaps and even had the ability to cross the gapless parts of the fences. Wild boars crossed through the gaps regularly. It is possible that Sika deer, Japanese serows, raccoons, Japanese badgers, raccoon dogs, Japanese macaques, and feral cats crossed through fence gaps because their relative abundance was high at gap locations. In contrast, Japanese hares slipped through the fence mesh rather than crossing through the gaps. In conclusion, we suggest that coordination and collaboration among related parties, a sufficient supply of fence materials, and securing a budget for fence maintenance are important for fence installation and maintenance. Furthermore, as fence gaps are inevitable, technical development of countermeasures for these gaps could be effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skulls of 53 raccoon dogs were examined. Skulls were distributed in ranks according to the degree of transformation of the chewing surfaces of molars in the upper and lower jaw. In each row skulls were selected with the most typical age-related changes of the chewing surfaces of molars. Then the age of raccoon dogs was determine by counting of annual layers in the cement on the cross sections of the upper canines. Transformation of the chewing surfaces begins from the second year of life raccoon dogs is visually noticeable. Initially the top of the mounds and ridges on the lingual side of the molars of the upper jaw begin to wear. From the fourth year of life tubercles in the center molars begin to fade. In individuals of seven-year age chewing surface of the molars is almost flat from the lingual side. On the buccal side the base paracone and metacone survived. In the lower jaw chewing surface transformation is most noticeable on the example of predatory teeth M1. The results of the laboratory determination of the age logically correlated with the variability of molars form in individuals up to the age of four years. The results of age determining in more adults were questionable because of the high individual variability of the form and the chewing surfaces of teeth. Peculiarities of development of the ridges on the lateral surface of the mandible were registered. It was noted the specificity of formation of the occipital and sagittal ridges due to the age of the chewing muscles. These results open the possibility of reliable determination of the age of juveniles which are usually prevalent in populations of raccoon dogs.

Raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procynoides) are canids indigenous to Eastern Asia being one of the most invasive non-native animals in Europe and potential vectors for several hazardous parasitic and viral diseases. To present, there is a lack of studies regarding objective techniques used to appreciate the integrity and functionality of the nervous system in this species. Brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAER) is a cost-effective, quick and noninvasive technique to assess the functionality of nervous system. The aim of the study is to provide reference values and evaluates the reliability of BAER recording with needle electrodes in clinically healthy raccoon dogs. Nine individuals were investigated for BAER under xylazine and ketamine general anesthesia. Four waves (I, II, III and V) were identified and evaluated for latencies, morphologically similarity to those previously reported for other species (dogs, horses, cats, and ferret). Our data can be used in further studies to asses objectively the auditory system function in raccoon dogs.

The recent invasion of the raccoon dog in the Netherlands may be associated with the risk of introduction and spread of zoonotic pathogens. The aim of this study was to assess whether Echinococcus multilocularis and Trichinella spp. infections are present in Dutch raccoon dogs. Between 2013 and 2014, nine raccoon dogs, mainly road kills, were collected for necropsies. One raccoon dog tested repeatedly positive in the qPCR for E. multilocularis. The positive raccoon dog was collected in the province of Flevoland, which is not a known endemic region for E. multilocularis. Another raccoon dog tested positive for Trichinella spiralis by the digestion of the forelimb musculature and the tongue. Trichinella spiralis has not been reported in wildlife since 1998 and thus far was not found in wild carnivores in the Netherlands. It shows that despite the small raccoon dog population that is present in the Netherlands and the limited number of raccoon dogs that were tested, the raccoon dog may play a role in the epidemiology of E. multilocularis and Trichinella spp. in the Netherlands.

In order to obtain Marketing Authorization for an oral rabies vaccine in the European Union, not only safety studies in the target species, red fox and raccoon dog, are required. Since baits are distributed unsupervised in the environment, specific safety studies in selected non-target species are compulsory. Furthermore, oral rabies vaccines are based on live, replication-competent viruses and thus distinct safety studies in the target species for such type of vaccines are also mandatory. Here, the results of these safety studies in target and selected non-target species for a 3rd generation oral rabies virus vaccine construct, SPBN GASGAS (Rabitec), are presented. The studies included the following species; red fox, raccoon dog, domestic dog, domestic cat, domestic pig, wild rodents. The following safety topics were investigated; overdose, repeated dose, dissemination, shedding, horizontal and vertical transmission. It was shown that SPBN GASGAS did not cause disease or any other adverse reaction in vaccinated animals and naïve contact animals. The vaccine did not disseminate within the host beyond the site of entry. No horizontal transmission was observed in wild rodents. In the target species, there was evidence that in a few cases horizontal transmission of vaccine virus could have occurred under these experimental conditions; most likely immediately after vaccine administration. The vaccine construct SPBN GASGAS meets therefore the latest revised minimal safety requirements as laid down in the European Pharmacopoeia.

We determined the complete mitochondrial genome (GenBank accession number: MG256392) of the raccoon dog (Nyctereutes ussurienusis) farmed in Northeast China and compared it with two previously published mitogenomes, one mitogenome of wild raccoon dog captured in Inner Mongolia of China (GenBank accession number: GU256221) and another mitogenome of Korean raccoon dog(GenBank accession number: KF709435). The N. ussurienusis mitogenome is 16,714 bp long and high similarity of 99.2% and 99.1% with Chinese wide raccoon dogs and Korean raccoon dogs. This study will contribute to understanding genetic divergence between raccoon dogs of N. procyonoides in East Asia.

To assess the effects of actions implemented by the Danish Action Plan (DAP) for eradication of the raccoon dog, the population dynamics of the raccoon dog in Denmark was simulated. A population viability analysis (PVA) was generated with the stochastic simulation program, VORTEX, based on population parameters of raccoon dog in other European countries (Poland, Finland and Germany), combined with statistics on dead raccoon dogs reported to the Danish National Veterinary Institute between 2008 and 2012. Simulations showed that the present feral population of raccoon dogs would expand markedly and reach an assessed carrying capacity of 30 000 individuals with no intervention within 10 years. Simulations of the current culling strategy showed that the raccoon dog in Denmark would reach the carrying capacity with only a few years' delay compared to simulations with no intervention. This indicates that more 2 efficient and intensive actions are needed to reach the goal of the DAP, aiming at eradicating the breeding population of raccoon dogs in Denmark within 2015. Simulations suggested that around 950 individuals should be culled a year from 2012 to 2015. Sensitivity analysis that was performed showed that the only parameter that had a strong influence on the population dynamic was the first year mortality.

Sarcoptic mange was detected in five free-ranging raccoon dogs ( Nyctereutes procyonoides ) in the federal state of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, during a health assessment study of invasive species, including raccoon dogs, carried out between 2021 and 2022. Four raccoon dogs showed severe lesions, including extensive alopecia with thickening and hyperpigmentation of the skin (lichenification). The fifth animal was less affected, showing only thinning of the hair coat in multiple body locations. Skin scrapings were performed and confirmed the presence of Sarcoptes scabiei. Histopathology of the skin revealed diffuse epidermal hyperplasia and hyperkeratosis, mild eosinophilic dermatitis, and varying amounts of intralesional mites. Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Corynebacterium auriscanis were detected in the skin samples of the affected animals, indicating a secondary bacterial infection. The source of sarcoptic mange remains unclear; interspecies transmission via direct or indirect contact seems likely. Raccoon dogs are therefore a potential vector for sarcoptic mange, and their behaviour could contribute to disease spread and persistence.

Platycladus orientalis leaves are rich in flavonoids and polysaccharides, which offer high medicinal and nutritional benefits. This study aimed to investigate the impact of P. orientalis leaf extract (PLE) on the growth performance, fur quality, serum parameters, and intestinal microbiota of raccoon dogs. Sixty healthy male black raccoon dogs, aged 85 (±5) days, were randomly assigned to four groups and fed a basal diet supplemented with 0, 0.25, 0.50, and 1.00 g/kg PLE for 125 days (designated as groups P0, P1, P2, and P3, respectively). The results revealed that the raccoon dogs in group P1 exhibited increased average daily gain and underfur length while showing a decreased feed/gain ratio compared to group P0 ( p < 0.05). However, the heart index in group P2 was significantly lower than in group P0 ( p < 0.05), and the kidney index and serum alanine aminotransferase activities in group P3 were higher than in groups P2 and P0 ( p < 0.05), suggesting potential adverse effects at higher PLE dosages. Notably, dietary PLE supplementation led to a reduction in serum glucose concentrations ( p < 0.05), which may have implications for glucose regulation. Furthermore, the study explored the impact of dietary supplementation with 0.25 g/kg PLE on the raccoon dogs' intestinal microbiota using high-throughput sequencing. The results showed significant alterations in the microbial community structure, with a notable decrease in the abundance of Prevotella copri in response to 0.25 g/kg PLE supplementation ( p < 0.05). In conclusion, supplementing raccoon dogs' diet with 0.25 g/kg PLE can lead to improved growth performance and a positive influence on the intestinal microbiota. However, caution should be exercised regarding higher dosages, as they may have adverse effects on certain parameters. As a result, PLE holds promise as a potential feed additive for fur animal production.

Originally from Asia, the raccoon dog Nyctereutes procyonoides is an invasive alien species in Europe, listed since 2019 on the List of invasive alien species of Union concern. The raccoon dog is considered to have negative impact on native biodiversity, as well as a crucial role in hosting and transmitting diverse parasites and pathogens of human and veterinary importance. In the present study, stomach content analyses and parasitological examinations were performed on 73 raccoon dogs from Germany. In addition, fecal samples were analyzed. The results of the study confirm the assumption that the examined raccoon dogs were infested with a various ecto- and endoparasite fauna. A total of 9 ecto- and 11 endoparasites were detected, with 6 of the endoparasites having human pathogenic potential. Trichodectes canis (P = 53.42%), Toxocara canis (P = 50.68%) and Uncinaria stenocephala (P = 68.49%) were the most abundant parasite species. The stomach contents consisted of approximately one-third vegetable and two-thirds animal components, composed of various species of amphibians, fish, insects, mammals and birds. Among them were specially protected or endangered species such as the grass frog Rana temporaria . The study shows that the raccoon dog exerts predation pressure on native species due to its omnivorous diet and, as a carrier of various parasites, poses a potential risk of infection to wild, domestic and farm animals and humans., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2023 The Authors.)

Microorganisms of the genus Eperythrozoon are a zoonotic chronic infectious disease with wide distribution. We found that raccoons infected with Eperythrozoon showed obvious stunting, which seriously affected the economic benefits of raccoon dogs. To investigate the pathogenesis of the raccoon dog, we used transcriptome and proteome sequencing to analyze the changes in mRNA, miRNA, and protein expression in raccoon dogs infected with Eperythrozoon and normal raccoons. The results showed that the expression levels of genes related to immunity, metabolism, and enzyme activity were significantly changed. Among these, ERLIN1, IGF1R, CREB3L1, TNS1, TENC1, and mTOR play key roles. Additionally, the miR-1268, miR-125b, miR-10-5p, and miR-10 as central miRNAs regulate the expression of these genes. Integrated transcriptomic and proteomic analyses revealed consistent trends in mRNA and protein changes in MYH9, FKBP1A, PRKCA, and CYP11B2. These results suggest that Eperythrozoon may contribute to the slow development of raccoons by affecting the expression of mRNAs and miRNAs, reducing their immunity and causing metabolic abnormalities.

Summary: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a zoonotic virus which circulates in pigs and wild boars as main reservoir species. To reveal the infection rate in carnivores, we have carried out a monitoring study of raccoons, raccoon dogs, dogs and cats sampled in Brandenburg, Germany. In summary, 53.8% (43 of 80) of the raccoons, 34.3% (25 of 73) of the raccoon dogs, 56.6% (47 of 83) of dogs and 32.3% (21 of 65) of cats were tested positive for HEV‐specific antibodies. No viral RNA could be detected. This first description of anti‐HEV antibodies in raccoons and raccoon dogs worldwide and in dogs and cats in Germany highlights the natural host range expansion of HEV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Young Finnraccoon females choose allohuddling and nesting while resting in winter. • Social housing in winter does not compromise welfare of young Finnraccoon females. • Winter nest is used considerably, and it does not cause soiling of the fur. • Level of stereotypic behaviour is low and it peaks in the evening. • Physiological welfare variables do not show difference between wintering conditions. Abstract Raccoon dog ( Nyctereutes procyonoides ussuriensis ) is the only canid species using facultative passive wintering strategy. The aim of the present study is to document the behaviour and welfare of the farmed variant of the species, i.e. Finnraccoon, housed in various conditions in winter. Young Finnraccoon females were housed in four different housing conditions; alone in a small cage (0.8 m2), alone in a larger cage (1.2 m2), alone in the large cage with access to a winter nest and in pair in the large cage, through their first winter. In order to control the body mass, the animals were weighed at the start of the housing treatment. The behaviour of the females was analysed by using instantaneous sampling with a sampling interval of 5 min for 24 h in one day, both in January and February. The animals were euthanized in March. The body size and mass of some organs related to the physiological state of the animals were measured. The Finnraccoons rested for 69–74% of their time, without difference between groups or months. The Finnraccoons with access to the nest box spent over 90% of their resting time inside the nest box, whereas the pair housed Finnraccoons allohuddled over 90% of their resting time. The Finnraccoons without these options rested mainly on the cage floor (74–85% of resting) and to a lesser extent on the platform (15–26 % of resting). The Finnraccoons with access to a nest box were less active and performed less nutritive behaviours than those housed alone, and without access to a nest box. This indicates passive wintering strategy, although no true hibernation was observed. The stereotypic behaviour occupied <1–2% of the observations, without difference between groups. The heavier animals had heavier organs, and no differences between groups were found in the mass of any organ. The furs remained clean in the Finnraccoons with access to the nest box. Number of scars, indicating agonistic interactions, was low in the pair housed Finnraccoons. Although no difference between groups is found in the physiological welfare measurements and in the occurrence of stereotypic behaviour, the results suggest that young Finnraccoon females should be housed in pairs until the onset of the mating season, and if housed singly, they should be provided with a winter nest to secure comfortable resting behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fox (Vulpes vulpes fulva) and raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) are important farmed fur animals, but information on their intestinal microbiota is not known. In this study, the fecal microbiota of the fox and raccoon dog were thus analyzed. Total DNA was extracted from fecal samples, and the v4 16S rRNA gene amplicons were characterized on an Illumina MiSeq platform. A total of 1433 operational taxonomical units (OTUs) belonging to 18 bacterial phyla were identified. The most predominant phyla, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria, were identified as the core microbiota, which was consistent with findings from other canids, such as the dog, wolf and dhole. Prevotella and Megasphaera were the major genera in both fox and raccoon dog. Even though the composition and ratio of genera varied between these two canids, their fecal microbial communities were similar to each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Western Europe, the Echinococcus multilocularis lifecycle is predominantly sylvatic, typically involving red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) as the main definitive hosts with Microtus spp. and Arvicola spp. as intermediate hosts. During a 4-year surveillance study (2012-2015), Danish red foxes and raccoon dogs (n = 1345) were examined for E. multilocularis. Moreover, 134 insectivores and rodents collected in South Jutland during spring and summer 2016 were examined for the presence of metacestodes. The sedimentation and counting technique and molecular typing were used to identify E. multilocularis infections in the carnivores, while the rodent livers were examined macro- and microscopically for parasite lesions. Following morphological identification of E. multilocularis adult worms, the identity was verified by sequence analysis of the 12S rRNA gene in most cases (n = 13). Echinococcus multilocularis infection was demonstrated in 19 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) originating from only two specific areas of South Jutland, namely Højer and Grindsted, and in two raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides), originating from Højer. In Højer, 28.5% (CI 95% 11.7-45.3) of the examined red foxes were E. multilocularis positive per year. Moreover, positive red foxes were identified each year from 2012 to 2015, while E. multilocularis positive red foxes were only identified in Grindsted in 2013 (4.0%) and 2014 (6.4%). In contrast, all collected rodents were negative for E. multilocularis. We conclude that E. multilocularis is locally endemic in South Jutland with a high local prevalence in Højer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides viverrinus) has recently become common in urban environments in Japan. We predicted that, like other carnivores adapted to urban environments, raccoon dogs in urban areas should have smaller home ranges than those in rural areas. We investigated the size of home ranges of raccoon dogs in the Akasaka Imperial Grounds, a 51-ha green area in central Tokyo. Between August 2012 and August 2014, 7 adult males and 4 adult females were radiotracked. Mean (± SD) home range size of these 11 raccoon dogs (100% minimum convex polygon = 17.6 ± 13.0 ha; 95% fixed kernel = 8.3 ± 5.7 ha) was smaller than that of raccoon dogs in rural areas obtained in previous studies, and core areas (75% local convex hull) averaged 3.7 ± 4.1 (SD) ha. We detected no seasonal changes in home range size. These results were consistent with the notion that urban carnivores typically have small home ranges. The small home range size seems to be explained by abundance of food resources, restricted environment, and the high population density of raccoon dogs in the urban green area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract: Mesocarnivores are becoming increasingly influential in ecosystems due to the ongoing loss of large carnivores. However, interactions within mesocarnivore communities remain poorly understood. We studied how competitive coexistence influences cohabitation of badgers (Meles meles) with other European mesocarnivores, and badger habitat selection at sett site and sett environ scales (within a 700 m radius buffer). We used data on the location and use of 234 badger setts in a 39 000 km2 area of mainland Estonia (Northern Europe) to assess the importance of sett occupancy by badgers, the regional abundance of other mesocarnivores (fox/raccoon dog), bedrock complex and landscape in explaining the presence of other mesocarnivores at badger setts. We also compared data from observed setts and random locations to study sett site selection. Setts where foxes or raccoon dogs were present had a lower proportion of active badger entrances and were more likely to be found in forests of agricultural areas, compared with setts where these species were absent. Sett locations tended to occur more frequently in older meso‐ and eutrophic forests on sandy soils. Badgers tended to avoid human infrastructure at sett locations and in the sett environ when selecting sett locations. Our results reveal the influence of habitat fragmentation and competitive relationships on cohabitation between terrestrial carnivores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The raccoon ( Procyon lotor ) and the raccoon dog ( Nyctereutes procyonoides ) belong to a group of the invasive species. The introduced species as potential reservoirs for vector-borne pathogens have been the subject of recent research, though there are still no data with reference to the European population of the raccoon, and few studies concern only the raccoon dog. This study shows the occurrence of Anaplasmataceae representatives in raccoons and a sympatric population of the raccoon dogs obtained from the area of Poland and Germany. During the study, the occurrence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum ecotype I in the introduced raccoon in northwestern Poland was revealed. Additionally, Candidatus Neoehrlichia sp. (FU98) was identified for the first time in the raccoon dog in Central Europe and thereby the raccoon dog is a new host for this pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comfort around resting is one of the key factors affecting farm animal welfare. The aim of the present study is to document the resting preferences in the Finnraccoon ( Nyctereutes procyonoides ussuriensis ) with special attention to the use of a platform. Sixteen sister-pairs of Finnraccoons were housed in 1.2 m 2 cages furnished with a platform made of plastic-coated wire mesh, similar to the mesh on the cage floor. The sister pairs were assigned to two experimental groups. In one group, the housing conditions remained unchanged throughout the growing season from weaning in July to the end of the study in December. In the other group, the access to the platform was temporarily prevented for two weeks in two occasions, i.e. in early autumn (September) and late autumn (November/December). The behaviour of the Finnraccoons was video recorded for six times: before each removal of the platform, during each removal of the platform and after returning access to the platform. The Finnraccoons rested in 67–74% of the daily observations. Allohuddling on the cage floor was the most common type of resting (61–91% of total resting time), being at a high level especially during the night-time. Resting alone on the cage floor and resting on the platform accounted 9–20% and 2–23% of the total resting time, respectively. These resting places were used more during the daytime than night. Including also activity, the platform was used for 2–17% of the total time. Due to the generally low level of platform use, the temporary deprivation of the platform did not affect the resting behaviour, but after the access to the platform was returned, the Finnraccoons did not quite discover the platform once again. Resting and sitting behaviours increased while the autumn proceeded. In contrast, the general activity level, including interaction with the activity object (bone), social behaviour, maintenance (eating and drinking), locomotion and stereotypic behaviour decreased. The Finnraccoons showed a clear circadian activity rhythm adjusted by daylight and human activities on the farm. Activity, including stereotypic behaviour, peaked in the early morning/before feeding. The results show that Finnraccoons prefer allohuddling on the cage floor instead of resting on a platform at night-time, whereas at daytime no so clear preference for resting site is observed. The platform is used for resting and activity during the daytime, which indicates that it is used for surveillance of human activities on the farm. Availability of a platform may enhance the welfare of Finnraccoons through increased complexity of the cage, although it is not used much. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three parvoviruses were isolated from the raccoon dogs experiencing severe enteritis, named RDPV-DP1, RDPV-DP2 and RDPV-DP3, respectively. The VP2 genes of the 3 isolates showed 99.9% identity at the nucleotide level, and shared 99.1%-99.5% identity with the reference CPVs. The RDPVs resembled original CPV-2, but with four mutations. The RDPVs displayed S297A of VP2 protein as CPV-2a or CPV-2b prevalent throughout most of the world. Residue N375D was found in the 3 isolates, resembling CPV-2a/2b/2c. And the 3 isolates had a natural mutation of VP2 residue V562L, which is adjacent to residue 564 and 568 and might be involved in host range. Interestingly, VP2 S27T was firstly found in the isolates. Phylogenetic analysis of VP2 genes revealed that the RDPVs were clustered into one small evolutionary branch and shared the identical branch with 7 CPV-2 isolates from raccoon dogs and one CPV-2 isolate from fox, not with CPV vaccine viruses. Phylogenetic analysis of NS1 genes demonstrated that the RDPVs shared the identical branch with the reference CPV-2a/2b/2c. Experimental infection showed that RDPV infection caused a high morbidity in raccoon dogs. It implied that the RDPV was virulent to raccoon dogs and continued to evolve in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationships between chosen mitochondrial genes polymorphisms and performance traits in raccoon dogs were determined. The study involved 354 farmed raccoon dogs. Blood collected from the animals was the analysed biological material. Mitochondrial DNA genes, i.e. MT-CO1 (mitochondrially encoded cytochrome c oxidase I), MT-CO2 (mitochondrially encoded cytochrome c oxidase II), and MT-CYB (mitochondrially encoded cytochrome b) were amplified using the polymerase chain reaction method. The amplicons obtained were sequenced and subjected to bioinformatics analysis. Based on the nucleotide sequences, three haplotypes for the MT-CO1 gene fragment and two haplotypes for the MT-CO2 gene fragment were identified. The sequence of the MT-CYB gene was monomorphic. Based on the haplotypes, five previously undescribed mitochondrial haplogroups were determined. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between the values of three of the five investigated performance traits of raccoon dogs and the identified haplotypes and mitochondrial haplogroups, taking into account predictors of direct additive effects, additive maternal effects, and fixed specific maternal environmental effects. The new mitochondrial haplogroups identified in the farmed raccoon dog population may imply constant emergence of adaptive mutations that are conserved in subsequent generations. The results of the association study indicate a statistically significant association between haplotypes and mitochondrial haplogroups of farmed raccoon dogs and their body weight, body size, and colour type, which allows considering MT-CO1 and MT-CO2 genes as candidate genes encoding these traits in raccoon dogs. The results of the molecular analyses can be applied to improve the performance traits in farmed raccoon dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The raccoon dog ( Nyctereutes procyonoides) is an invasive canid originating from eastern Asia. Here, we review its physiological adaptations to wintering, with an emphasis on northern Europe, where the raccoon dog spends the coldest part of the year in winter sleep. The timing of physiological changes related to wintering is connected to photoperiod by melatonin. In preparation to winter, raccoon dogs display autumnal hyperphagia and fattening probably regulated by the interaction of several peptide hormones. Sufficient fat deposition is essential for survival through the cold season and for reproduction in spring. The wintering strategy includes alternating periods of physical activity and passivity. Effective arousal and foraging during warmer bouts are enabled by normoglycaemia. During active periods, raccoon dogs are opportunistic participants in the food web, and they mainly utilize ungulate carcasses, plant material, and small mammals. Preferred wintertime habitats include watersides, forests, wetlands, and gardens. However, many food items become limited in mid-winter and snow restricts foraging leading to a negative energy balance. During passivity, energy is preserved by denning and by modest metabolic suppression, probably enabled by decreased thyroid hormone levels. Sleepiness and satiety could be maintained by high growth hormone and leptin concentrations. Several hormones participate in the extension of phase II of fasting with selective fatty acid mobilization and efficient protein conservation. The blood count, organ function tests, bone mass, and bone biomechanical properties exhibit high resistance against catabolism, and breeding can be successful after significant weight loss. The flexible physiological response to wintering is probably one reason enabling the successful colonization of this species into new areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptosporidium spp. are common intestinal protozoa causing diarrhea in humans and a variety of animal species. With the recent development of fur industry, a large number of fur animals are farmed worldwide, especially in China. The existence of identical Cryptosporidium species/genotypes in humans and fur animals suggests zoonotic potential. In order to assess the presence of zoonotic Cryptosporidium species and/or genotypes in farmed fur animals, 367 fecal specimens were collected from 213 foxes, 114 minks and 40 raccoon dogs farmed in Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning provinces, northeastern China, during the period from June 2014 to October 2016. By PCR and sequencing of the partial small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene of Cryptosporidium, 20 of 367 (5.4%) animal samples were found to be infected, corresponding to 12 of 213 fox samples (5.6%) and 8 of 114 mink samples (7.0%) screened. Three Cryptosporidium species/genotypes were identified: C. canis ( n = 17), C. meleagridis ( n = 1) and Cryptosporidium mink genotype ( n = 2). Two host-adapted C. canis types ( C. canis dog genotype and C. canis fox genotype) were found. By PCR and sequencing of the partial 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) encoding gene, one mink genotype isolate was successfully subtyped as XcA5G1R1. The three Cryptosporidium species/genotypes identified in this study have been previously reported in humans suggesting that fur animals infected with Cryptosporidium spp. may pose a risk of zoonotic transmission of cryptosporidiosis, especially for the people working in fur animal farming and processing industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various animal species potentially disperse varying amounts of seeds through epizoochory (seed dispersal on animals). However, few studies have compared the contributions of wild animals to epizoochory. Here, we compared the number of seeds of three plants— Achyranthes bidentata , Oplismenus undulatifolius , and Persicaria filiformis —attached to six mammal species: Meles anakuma , Mustela itatsi , Paguma larvata , Procyon lotor , Nyctereutes procyonoides , and Vulpes vulpes. We also investigated the effects of animal fur traits and height overlaps between animal body parts and seed-set positions. To evaluate the phenological effects, we conducted surveys in October and December. The number of seeds attached to the animal dummies differed among the mammal species and was significantly influenced by hair length and height overlap. Seed-set height changed overtime as the plants withered, which introduced seasonal variation in the disperser species. We conclude that epizoochorous seeds can be dispersed by various medium-sized mammals during their long period of availability. The number of seeds dispersed depends on the hair length, the height of the animal and, the seed-set position, and season. • Number of seeds attached differ between medium-sized mammals. • Hair length influences the number of attached seeds. • Overlap between animal and seed-setting height affect the number of attached seeds. • Seed-setting height of epizoochorous plants become lower was they wilt. • Dispersal agents may change through the seed dispersal period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcine circovirus 4 (PCV4) is a recently discovered circovirus that was first reported in 2019 in several pigs with severe clinical disease in Hunan province of China, and also identified in pigs infected with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). To further investigate the epidemic profile and genetic characteristics of the two viruses, 150 clinical samples were collected from 9 swine farms in Shaanxi and Henan provinces of China, and a SYBR Green I-based duplex quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was developed for detecting PCV4 and PRRSV simultaneously. The results showed the limits of detection were 41.1 copies/μL and 81.5 copies/μL for PCV4 and PRRSV, respectively. The detection rates of PCV4 and PRRSV were 8.00% (12/150) and 12.00% (18/150) respectively, and a case of co-infection with PCV4 and PRRSV was found in the lung tissue of a suckling pig with respiratory symptom. Subsequently, the complete genomic sequences of five PCV4 strains were obtained, of which one PCV4 strain (SX-ZX) was from Shaanxi province, and these strains were 1770 nucleotides in length and had 97.7%−99.4% genomic identity with 59 PCV4 reference strains. The genome characteristic of the SX-ZX strain was evaluated from three aspects, a "stem-loop" structure, ORF1 and ORF2. As essential elements for the replication, the 17-bp iterative sequence was predicted as the stem structure, in which three non-tandem hexamers were found at downstream with H1/H2 (12-CGGCACACTTCGGCAC-27) as the minimal binding site. Three of the five PCV4 strains were clustered into PCV4b, which was composed of Suidae, fox, dairy cow, dog and raccoon dog. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that seven PRRSV strains from the present study were clustered into the PRRSV-2 genotype. Collectively, these data extend our understanding of the genome characteristic of PCV4 as well as the molecular epidemiology and the genetic profile of PCV4 and PRRSV. • A duplex qPCR assay was developed for the simultaneous detection of PCV4 and PRRSV. • Limits of detection were 41.1 copies/μL and 81.5 copies/μL for PCV4 and PRRSV, respectively. • A case of co-infection with PCV4 and PRRSV was found in lung tissue of a suckling pig with respiratory symptom. • The 17-bp iterative sequence was predicted as the stem structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of Giardia genotypes was investigated in 18 raccoon dogs ( Nyctereutes procyonoides ) and 80 red foxes ( Vulpes vulpes ) on one farm. To demonstrate Giardia cysts, fresh and trichrome stained smears were microscopically screened. Two molecular markers were used for Giardia genotyping: a fragment of the beta-giardin gene and a fragment of the glutamate dehydrogenase gene. All faecal samples obtained from red foxes were negative. Giardia cysts were identified only in 2 of the 18 raccoon dogs. The result of genotyping and phylogenetic analysis showed that the G. duodenalis from both raccoon dogs belonged to the D assemblage. This finding of a new animal reservoir of G. duodenalis canids-specific genotypes is important in order to eliminate the risk of infecting other animals bred for fur. Further molecular analyses of Giardia isolates in raccoon dogs are required. The present study represents the first contribution to knowledge of G. duodenalis genotypes in raccoon dogs.

Gen MYO15A je uključen u stvaranje proteina iz grupe motornih proteina - miozina. Miozin XVA je lociran u unutrašnjem uhu, hipofi zi i drugim tkivima, i značajno utiče na slušni proces. Mutacije u ovom genu izazivaju supstitucije aminokiselina u konzervisanom motornom domenu lanca miozina, što dovodi do skraćenja stereocilija slušnih ćelija, a kao posledica dolazi do poremećaja funkcije XVA miozina. Postavljena je istraživačka hipoteza koja je pretpostavljala da mutacije u genu koji je odgovoran za slušni proces kod životinja familije Canidae mogu da izazovu hipoakustiku kao i značajne promene u ponašanju pasa, od povučenosti i straha do agresivnosti. Ispitivanjem je determinisan SNP polimorfi zam u fragmentu gena MYO15A koji može da dovede do poremećaja sluha kako kod divljih tako i kod farmski uzgajanih životinja familije Canidae.

The overuse and abuse of antibiotics in animal husbandry is an ongoing problem. While probiotics could be an alternative, their effectiveness, stability and production cost are key factors that need to be addressed first. This study used a mixed culture of Bifidobacterium bifidum, Clostridium butyricum, Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis on a simple and inexpensive solid-state medium generated by pouring a liquid MRS medium, which was designed to favor the dense growth of lactobacilli, onto wheat bran at a ratio of 1:2 by weight. Using this method, we achieved a very high number of live bacteria (NLB), at 3.93 × 10 CFU/g, without the need for expensive anaerobic equipment. The mixed culture thus achieved striking results that were up to 10,000 times better than the pure culture and did not require special anaerobic equipment. A real-time PCR analysis demonstrated that the shares of the four strains in the mixed culture probiotics (MCPs) were 2, 17, 46, and 35%, respectively, which indicates that the fermentation product contained an uneven distribution of the four probiotic target bacteria. The MCPs possessed good storage stability at room temperature, and the NLB was greater than 10 CFU/g after 30 days at 25°C, which made it easier to transport and store. They also demonstrated good stability in artificial digestion fluids, with an NLB of over 10 CFU/g after sequential treatments, which enabled them to maintain effectiveness in the animal gastrointestinal tract. Finally, the MCPs were fed to the mealworms ( Tenebrio molitor) and raccoon dogs ( Nyctereutes procyonoides) in order to test their effectiveness, and the growth rates of both significantly improved with the MCPs feeding. This study thus demonstrated that culturing MCPs on a solid-state medium is an efficient method to affordably produce probiotic feed additives that can improve the performance of very physiologically different animals, such as the mealworm and raccoon dog, which indicates their potential for very wide applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides koreensis) may play a role transmitting several pathogens to humans and pet animals. Information concerning the incidence of rabies, canine distemper virus (CDV), canine parvovirus (CPV), canine adenovirus type 2 (CAdV-2), canine parainfluenza virus type 5 (CPIV-5), and canine herpesvirus (CHV) is needed in wild raccoon dogs. In total, 62 brain samples of raccoon dogs were examined for rabies virus (RABV) and CDV, and 49 lung samples were screened for CDV, CAdV-2, CPIV-5, and CHV. No RABV, CAdV-2, CPIV-5, or CHV was identified, but nine CDV antigens (8.1%, 9/111) were detected. Moreover, 174 serum samples from wild raccoon dogs were screened for antibodies against the five major viral pathogens. The overall serosurveillance against CDV, CPV, CAdV-2, CPIV-5, and CHV in wild raccoon dogs was 60.3%, 52.9%, 59.8%, 23.6%, and 10.3%, respectively. Comparisons of the sero-surveillance of the five pathogens showed that raccoon dogs of Gyeonggi province have slightly higher sero-positive rates against CDV, CPV, and CHV than those of Gangwon province. These results indicate high incidences of CDV, CPV, and CAdV-2 in wild raccoon dogs of two Korean provinces and a latent risk of pathogen transmission to companion and domestic animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An approximately two-year-old, male 6.1 kg body weight, Korean wild raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides koreensis) was captured by the wildlife medical rescue center of Kangwon National University. Upon physical examination, the heart rate was 87 beats per min and there were no clinical signs. The hematological, and blood biochemical profiles revealed no remarkable findings; however, thoracic radiographs showed cardiac enlargement, especially in the right atrium. On electrocardiogram, sinus node dysfunction and bradyarrhythmia were revealed. Echocardiography showed a left-to-right shunting atrial septal defect. Based on these findings, this Korean wild raccoon dog was diagnosed with atrial septal defect. This is the rare case report of atrial septal defect in wildlife. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcoptic mange is a highly contagious zoonotic skin disease that can have severe effect on population dynamics of many wild mammals. However, very little is known about its effect on the activity and space use of infected animals. In this study we equipped two raccoon dogs ( Nyctereutes procyonoides ) in a mange outbreak area with radio-collars and observed the spatial and temporal effects of sarcoptic mange to these individuals. Initially, the raccoon dogs had no external symptoms of mange infection, but developed these during the study period. One of the raccoon dogs died just 32 and the other 52 days after collaring. During a relatively short period before their death, there was an abrupt and drastic decline in their home range size. For one of the animals it started about 1 month before its death and the home range size reduced >1000×, whereas for the other raccoon dog it took place within the last week, decreasing >200×. The daily covered distances also declined considerably. These results indicate that at the later stage sarcoptic mange affected the physiological state of the diseased animals so forcefully that made them almost immobile. Our results show for the first time how rapid and severe could the impact of sarcoptic mange be for one of its most important reservoir and vector species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxoplasma gondii is a successful opportunistic parasite, affecting a wide range of vertebrate animals and humans. Genetic diversity of T. gondii in raccoon dogs ( Nyctereutes procyonoides ) is of great importance to understand the transmission of T. gondii in the environment. However, no information is available about the distribution of genetic diversity of T. gondii infection in raccoon dogs. This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and genetic characterization of T. gondii from raccoon dogs in Shandong province, eastern China. A total of 314 brain tissue samples of raccoon dogs were collected and genomic DNA was extracted and assayed for T. gondii infection using semi-nested PCR targeting B1 gene. The positive DNA samples were typed at 10 genetic markers (SAG1, SAG2(5′ + 3′ SAG2, alter.SAG2), SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1, and Apico) by multiplex multilocus nested polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (Mn- PCR-RFLP) technology. Thirty-five (11.15%) of 314 DNA samples were detected positive. Only six samples were completely typed at all genetic loci, and these samples represented ToxoDB genotype#9. Two sample were typed at 9 genetic loci and one was typed at 8 genetic loci, all of them represented Type I. To our knowledge, this is the first report of genetic characterization of T. gondii in raccoon dogs in China. These results revealed the existence of genetic diversity of T. gondii in raccoon dogs in China. These data provided base-line information for controlling T. gondii infection in raccoon dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estimation of the dietary habits of extinct species using morphological traits has been attempted in numerous studies; however, previous methods have encountered several difficulties, such as requiring specialized equipment. In this study, we describe an easy quantitative method for estimating the dietary habits, and apply it to extinct raccoon dogs ( Nyctereutes) species (Carnivora, Mammalia). The method is based on the lower molar ratios (M2/M1 size) that reflect the species diet (carnivorous and omnivorous tendencies) in Canidae. Among the species statistically compared, Nyctereutes sinensis showed a lower M2/M1 score similar to that of Nyctereutes procyonoides albus (Hokkaido, Japan), whereas Nyctereutes tingi had a higher M2/M1 score similar to that of Nyctereutes procyonoides viverrinus (Honshu and Kyushu, Japan). These scores suggest that the diets of N. sinensis and N. tingi were similar to those of N. p. albus (relatively carnivorous) and N. p. viverrinus (relatively omnivorous), respectively. Other extinct raccoon dogs also showed varied M2/M1 score, suggesting dietary difference. These results suggest that raccoon dogs underwent dietary transitions or exhibited dietary plasticity during evolution, while their range of diets might have remained the same as those of different populations of extant species Nyctereutes procyonoides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was performed to record new definitive hosts of Isthmiophora hortensis, and to describe morphological characteristics derived from a variety of worm samples for clarification of its taxonomic validity. Morphological characteristics with dimensions were observed in worm samples (n=21) from naturally infected wild animals, including a raccoon dog Nyctereutes procyonoides from Gimhae-si (City), Gyeongsangnam-do, stray cats and a striped field mouse from several localities, and a wild boar Sus scrofa, from Gurye-gun (County), Jeollanam-do. In addition, adult flukes (n=45) recovered in albino rats experimentally infected with the metacercariae from a freshwater fish species were also subjected to morphological studies. The mean ratios of the body length (BL) to body width (BW) were 5.86 and 5.76 in worms from wild animals and experimental rats, respectively. Those of the ventral sucker to oral sucker were 2.92 and 3.01 in worms from 2 groups. The mean percentages of the hindbody length (HBL) to BL were 42.1 and 41.2 in 2 groups. Those of uterine fields to BL were 9.8 and 12.2 in the 2 worm groups. By the present study, the 2 species of wild animals, the raccoon dog and wild boar, have been added as new definitive hosts for I. hortensis. The morphological characteristics of adult flukes derived from a variety of host source were redescribed to support the taxonomic validity of this echinostome species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We quantitatively evaluated the effects of landscape factors on the distribution of symptomatic raccoon dogs with sarcoptic mange along an urban gradient. We used 246 camera traps (182 traps from April 2005 to December 2006; 64 traps from September 2009 to October 2010) to record the occurrence of asymptomatic and symptomatic raccoon dogs at 21 survey sites along an urban-rural gradient in the Tama Hills area of Tokyo. Each occurrence was explained in terms of the surrounding forest, agricultural, and grassland areas and additional factors (i.e., seasonal variations and survey methods) at various spatial scales using a generalized additive mixed model (GAMM). In our analysis, a 1000-m radius was identified as the important spatial scale for asymptomatic and symptomatic raccoon dog occurrence. The peak of the predicted occurrence probability of asymptomatic raccoon dogs appeared in the intermediate forest landscape as opposed to non-forest and forest landscapes. However, a high occurrence probability of symptomatic raccoon dogs was detected in non-forest and intermediate forest landscapes (i.e., urban and suburban) as opposed to a forest landscape, presumably because of animals occurring at much higher densities in more urbanized areas. Therefore, our results suggest that human-modified landscapes play an important role in the high occurrence of sarcoptic mange in raccoon dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic landscape changes contributed to the reduction of availability of habitats to wild animals. Hence, the presence of wild terrestrial carnivores in urban and peri-urban sites has increased considerably over the years implying an increased risk of interspecies spillover of infectious diseases and the transmission of zoonoses. The present study provides a detailed characterisation of the health status of the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), stone marten (Martes foina) and raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) in their natural rural and peri-urban habitats in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany between November 2013 and January 2016 with focus on zoonoses and infectious diseases that are potentially threatening to other wildlife or domestic animal species. 79 red foxes, 17 stone martens and 10 raccoon dogs were collected from traps or hunts. In order to detect morphological changes and potential infectious diseases, necropsy and pathohistological work-up was performed. Additionally, in selected animals immunohistochemistry (influenza A virus, parvovirus, feline leukemia virus, Borna disease virus, tick-borne encephalitis, canine adenovirus, Neospora caninum, Toxoplasma gondii and Listeria monocytogenes), next-generation sequencing, polymerase chain reaction (fox circovirus) and serum-neutralisation analysis (canine distemper virus) were performed. Furthermore, all animals were screened for fox rabies virus (immunofluorescence), canine distemper virus (immunohistochemistry) and Aujeszky’s disease (virus cultivation). The most important findings included encephalitis (n = 16) and pneumonia (n = 20). None of the investigations revealed a specific cause for the observed morphological alterations except for one animal with an elevated serum titer of 1:160 for canine distemper. Animals displayed macroscopically and/or histopathologically detectable infections with parasites, including Taenia sp., Toxocara sp. and Alaria alata. In summary, wildlife predators carry zoonotic parasitic disease and suffer from inflammatory diseases of yet unknown etiology, possibly bearing infectious potential for other animal species and humans. This study highlights the value of monitoring terrestrial wildlife following the “One Health” notion, to estimate the incidence and the possible spread of zoonotic pathogens and to avoid animal to animal spillover as well as transmission to humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The neozoan species raccoon dog ( Nyctereutes procyonoides) and raccoon ( Procyon lotor) are widespread in Europe and potential vectors of many diseases that can threaten human and domestic animal health. Facing a further spread of these species, it is important to know about (i) pathogens imported and/or (ii) pathogens acquired in the new habitat. Thus, we investigated the parasite fauna of wild raccoon dogs and raccoons from Austria, at the edge of their new distribution range. The eight examined raccoons were nearly free of pathogens including Baylisascaris procyonis, and thus assumed to have a low epidemiological impact, so far. Out of ten raccoon dog specimens, we found one from western Austria to be infected with Echinococcus multilocularis and another three from the eastern wetland regions to harbour adults of Alaria alata. Furthermore, we detected Babesia cf. microti in five of eight raccoon dogs all over Austria but none of our samples were tested positive for Trichinella spp. Nevertheless, the raccoon dog seems to be a relevant host, at least for the zoonotic pathogens E. multilocularis and A. alata, and we suggest to further monitor the raccoon dogs parasite fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In total, 721 specimens from eight populations of the raccoon dog Nyctereutes procyonoides across native and colonized areas have been studied. The most polymorphic populations inhabit the European part of Russia and a part of the native area. The raccoon dog from Eastern Poland and the Primorie Far East is characterized by low intrapopulational variability. Quantitative genetic variations in the studied populations indicate a relatively higher level in the population from the Primorie Far East compared to the Southern Vologda and Eastern Poland. The pattern of morphological variability in the raccoon dog is shaped by such factors as the latest phylogenetic history of the species and the structure of the morphotype frequency in the time of the divergence of the populations on both micro-and macro-geographic levels. The influence of geographic and climatic factors forms a well-pronounced trend towards diversification in tooth morphology, which is most probably the consequence of adaptations to changes in the food niche. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]