A Respectful Approach to Removing Deceased Wildlife from Your Property

Discovering deceased wildlife on your property can be a distressing experience. While it’s a natural part of the ecosystem, proper handling is essential for health, safety, and respect for the animal. This Dead Animal Removal Zetland blog provides a professional guide on how to manage such situations with care and responsibility.

1. Safety First

Before attempting to handle deceased wildlife, prioritize your safety. Wear gloves (preferably disposable) to prevent direct contact with the animal. This is crucial to avoid exposure to potential diseases such as rabies, leptospirosis, or other zoonotic pathogens. If the animal is large or you suspect it may have died from a disease, consider contacting local wildlife control or a professional removal service.

2. Preparation and Equipment

Gather the necessary equipment before approaching the animal. This includes:

• Protective gloves
• A shovel or other tool for scooping
• A heavy-duty plastic bag for containment
• Disinfectant for cleaning tools and the area afterwards

3. Careful Removal

Using the shovel, gently place the deceased animal into the plastic bag. Avoid any sudden movements or actions that might cause the body to rupture, as this could release harmful pathogens. If the animal is particularly large, do not attempt to move it alone. Seeking professional assistance ensures safe removal without personal injury.

4. Proper Disposal

Check with your local regulations for disposing of deceased wildlife. Some areas may allow burial on your property if done safely (deep enough to prevent scavengers from unearthing it). Otherwise, your local animal control or waste disposal service can provide guidelines on where and how to dispose of the body properly.

5. Clean-Up

After removal, disinfect any tools used, including the shovel and gloves, before storing them away. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If the animal was found near your home or in an area frequently used by people or pets, clean the surface with a disinfectant suitable for killing viruses and bacteria.

6. Prevent Future Incidents

Consider investigating how the animal entered your property and take steps to prevent future occurrences. This might include sealing gaps in fences, ensuring trash bins are securely closed to not attract wildlife, and removing potential food sources from your yard.

7. When to Contact Professionals

If you’re uncomfortable handling deceased wildlife or if the animal is of a significant size, contacting a professional wildlife removal service is advisable. They are equipped and trained to handle such situations safely and efficiently, ensuring minimal risk to your health and safety.

Conclusion

The discovery of deceased wildlife on your property requires a measured, respectful approach to removal and disposal. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can ensure the safety of yourself and others while showing respect for wildlife. Remember, if at any point the situation seems beyond your capability, do not hesitate to seek professional assistance. Respecting nature's cycles while maintaining our safety is paramount in coexisting with the wildlife around us.