What Do I Do With a Dead Animal in My Yard?
Figuring out what to do with a dead animal in your yard can be unpleasant but is important for hygiene and preventing disease; the proper procedure involves careful handling, safe disposal or reporting depending on the animal and local regulations.
The discovery of a dead animal on your property is never a pleasant experience. It can be unsettling, and immediately raises questions about safety, sanitation, and legality. Knowing the proper steps to take is crucial for protecting yourself, your family, and the environment. This article will guide you through the process, providing expert advice and practical solutions for handling this delicate situation responsibly.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Ignoring a dead animal in your yard isn’t an option. Decomposition can lead to unpleasant odors, attract scavengers (which could further spread disease or cause property damage), and pose potential health risks to humans and pets. Prompt and responsible disposal is essential for maintaining a clean and safe environment.
Identifying the Animal
Before proceeding, take note of the animal’s species. Is it a common squirrel, bird, or rodent? Or is it a larger animal like a deer, raccoon, or domestic pet? Identifying the animal is important because it will influence the disposal method and whether you need to contact local authorities. Larger animals might need to be reported, especially if there’s a chance of disease or illegal activity involved.
Safety Precautions
Your personal safety is paramount. Never handle a dead animal with your bare hands. Always wear protective gear, including:
- Gloves: Heavy-duty rubber or latex gloves are essential.
- Mask: A dust mask or respirator can prevent inhalation of airborne particles.
- Eye protection: Safety glasses or goggles will protect your eyes from splashes.
Disposal Options
Several options exist for disposing of a dead animal, each with its own considerations:
- Burial: This is often the most environmentally friendly option.
- Dig a hole at least 3 feet deep to prevent scavengers from unearthing the remains.
- Choose a location away from water sources and property lines.
- Cover the animal with lime (calcium oxide) to accelerate decomposition and reduce odor.
- Trash Disposal: Check local regulations regarding disposal of animal carcasses.
- Double-bag the animal in sturdy plastic bags to prevent leakage and odor.
- Contact your local waste management authority if you have any doubts about legality.
- Cremation: Some pet cremation services may accept small wildlife carcasses. This option is generally more expensive but provides a respectful means of disposal.
- Professional Removal: If you’re uncomfortable handling the animal yourself, contact a professional wildlife removal service or animal control. They have the equipment and expertise to safely remove and dispose of the carcass.
Reporting to Authorities
In certain situations, reporting the dead animal to authorities is necessary:
- Suspected Rabies or Disease: If you suspect the animal died from rabies or another contagious disease, contact your local health department or animal control immediately.
- Large Animals: The death of larger animals like deer on or near roads may need to be reported to your local Department of Natural Resources or highway patrol.
- Protected Species: If the animal is a protected species, contact your local wildlife agency for guidance.
Minimizing Future Occurrences
Preventing future incidents can save you the trouble of having to deal with dead animals:
- Secure Trash Cans: Use tight-fitting lids on trash cans to prevent attracting animals to your property.
- Remove Food Sources: Pick up fallen fruit, clean up bird feeders, and avoid leaving pet food outside.
- Seal Entry Points: Seal any holes or cracks in your home’s foundation or siding to prevent animals from entering.
Comparison of Disposal Options
| Disposal Method | Advantages | Disadvantages | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| :————— | :——————————– | :———————————————— | :——————– |
| Burial | Environmentally friendly, private | Requires digging, potential for scavenger digging | Low |
| Trash Disposal | Convenient | May violate local regulations, odor potential | Low |
| Cremation | Respectful, sanitary | Expensive | Moderate to High |
| Professional Removal | Safe, hassle-free | Most expensive option | Moderate to High |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it safe to touch a dead animal with gloves on?
While wearing gloves provides a barrier, it’s still crucial to avoid direct contact with the animal as much as possible. Dispose of the gloves immediately after handling the carcass and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
How deep should I bury a dead animal in my yard?
You should bury a dead animal at least 3 feet deep. This depth prevents scavengers from digging up the remains and helps ensure proper decomposition.
What kind of lime should I use when burying an animal?
Use hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide) or agricultural lime (calcium carbonate). Do not use quicklime (calcium oxide) near plants as it can burn them. Lime helps to neutralize odors and accelerate decomposition.
Can I compost a dead animal?
Generally, composting a dead animal is not recommended unless you have a specialized composting system designed for animal carcasses. Backyard composting systems typically don’t reach high enough temperatures to kill harmful pathogens.
Who do I call if I find a dead deer on the side of the road?
Contact your local Department of Natural Resources, highway patrol, or animal control. They will arrange for the removal of the deer carcass.
Is it illegal to move a dead animal from the road?
It depends on your local laws. Moving a dead animal yourself can be dangerous due to traffic and the risk of disease. Always check with your local authorities before attempting to move a carcass.
How long will it take for a buried animal to decompose?
The decomposition time varies depending on the animal’s size, soil conditions, and temperature. Typically, it can take several months to a year for a small animal to fully decompose.
What diseases can I get from a dead animal?
Dead animals can carry various diseases, including rabies, tularemia, leptospirosis, and parasites. Always take precautions to avoid contact and wash your hands thoroughly after any potential exposure.
Can I put a dead animal in the trash can if it’s wrapped properly?
Check your local regulations first. Some municipalities prohibit disposing of animal carcasses in regular household trash. Double-bagging the animal is essential, but it may not be enough to comply with local ordinances.
What if the animal is on my neighbor’s property?
Communicate with your neighbor about the situation. If they are unwilling or unable to handle the disposal, you may need to contact your local animal control for assistance.
How do I prevent animals from dying in my yard in the future?
Secure trash cans, remove food sources, and seal any entry points to your home. You can also consider installing animal-deterrent devices like ultrasonic repellers or motion-activated sprinklers.
What should I do if my pet finds and plays with a dead animal?
If your pet comes into contact with a dead animal, isolate it immediately and contact your veterinarian. Your vet can assess the risk of disease transmission and recommend appropriate treatment, such as vaccinations or deworming.