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How to Get Rid of Dead Raccoons Safely
A dead raccoon will begin to rot within a few days, causing a terrible odor. Removing a dead raccoon as quickly as possible is important because that odor may attract other unwanted pests. Remember that you should never handle the body of a dead raccoon without proper training. They can still be infected with transmissible diseases such as rabies and raccoon roundworm. If you find a dead raccoon, contact our professionals at Critter Control.
Raccoon carcasses are easy to identify, as these mammals are known for their black-ringed tails and bandit-like masks. The most common causes of death include disease, accidents, human hunting and trapping, and predator attacks. The animal’s appearance may vary based on the cause and time of death.
Dead raccoons are often found around the home or yard. They are usually found on the edges of yards or underneath structures like decks. If a raccoon is infected with disease or hurt, it may seek refuge in attics, chimneys, or basements to remain concealed from predators.
Dead Raccoon Removal from Backyard
Most people can safely dispose of a dead raccoon in their yard, but you should take necessary safety precautions.
Never Touch an Animal Carcass with Your Bare Hands!
Check with Your Local Animal Control Services
Each state has its own regulations on proper animal carcass removal. Some local animal control departments will come to your property and pick up the dead raccoon from your yard.
For smaller mammals like raccoons, it may be possible to dispose of the carcass in the trash. Most guidelines stipulate double-bagging the raccoon carcass in two garbage bags.
General Guidelines for Carcass Disposal in Trash
- Double-bagging the carcass in sturdy, leak-proof plastic bags to contain odors and prevent leakage.
- Place it in your outdoor trash bin just before collection day.
This method is generally not suitable if there’s any suspicion of disease. Before attempting this, check with your local waste management or health department for their specific guidelines. Don’t assume; verify.
How to Dispose of a Dead Raccoon in the Yard
Before you try to dispose of a dead raccoon on your own, check with your city and state regulations on animal carcass disposal. Generally, most states allow you to bury a raccoon on your property.
Burying with Care: Depth, Location, and Materials
If burial is allowed, it must be done properly.
- Dig a hole at least 2-3 feet deep to prevent other animals from digging it up.
- Choose a location away from water sources (wells, streams, ponds) and utility lines.
- You can also sprinkle a layer of lime over the carcass before covering it with soil to aid decomposition and deter scavengers.
Always wear heavy-duty gloves and use a shovel. Afterward, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and disinfect any tools used.
Dead Animal Removal Services Near You
Call a professional if you have a raccoon infestation inside your home that leads to a dead raccoon. If raccoons get inside the attic, walls, or crawlspace, they occasionally get trapped and die. The carcass contaminates the area in the house, attracts pests, and introduces additional risks to you and your family. This increases the need for extra safety protocols.
At Critter Control, we safely remove the dead raccoon from your house so you won’t have to worry about it. Then, we dispose of it safely. We apply sanitization agents and ecto-parasite treatments to remediate the health risks introduced by the raccoon.
Raccoon Prevention & Exclusion
Remember, if one raccoon gets inside your house, that vulnerability still exists. Another raccoon or other pests, like squirrels, can use that opening to re-infest your home.
- Remove food and shelter options.
- Keep trash in tightly sealed containers.
- Screen and secure all cracks, windows, chimneys, and doors
For more information on safely removing dead raccoons from your commercial or residential property, contact your local Critter Control.
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