Finding a dead animal on your property can be an unpleasant surprise. Whether it’s a squirrel near the driveway, a raccoon under your deck, or something larger in your yard, it’s important to handle the situation safely and responsibly.
Dead animals can carry diseases, attract scavengers, and cause unpleasant odors if not removed properly. Knowing what steps to take—and what not to do—can protect your health, your pets, and your property.
Don’t Touch or Move the Animal Yourself
Even if the animal looks harmless, resist the urge to pick it up or dispose of it on your own. Many wild animals—even after death—can carry parasites, bacteria, or diseases that pose serious health risks to humans and pets.
Common concerns include:
- Rabies (transmitted through saliva or open wounds)
- Leptospirosis (a bacterial infection spread through fluids)
- Fleas, ticks, and mites that can jump from the carcass onto you or your pets
If you must inspect the area, keep a safe distance and do not touch the animal directly. Avoid breathing near it, as decomposing animals can release airborne bacteria.
Keep Children and Pets Away
Curious pets or kids may approach a dead animal out of curiosity, but this can be dangerous. Dogs, in particular, may try to pick up or play with the carcass—putting them at risk of infection or parasites.
As soon as you notice the animal, block off the area or keep pets inside until professionals can safely remove it. If your pet does make contact with the animal, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance.
Identify (If Possible) the Type of Animal and Location
While you shouldn’t handle the carcass, take note of a few key details to share with your wildlife control specialist:
- The type of animal (if recognizable)
- Its location (yard, attic, crawl space, under deck, etc.)
- Any visible signs of damage, droppings, or other wildlife activity nearby
This information helps professionals determine if there’s a larger problem, such as a wildlife infestation, nesting area, or entry point that needs to be addressed.
Don’t Attempt DIY Disposal
Some homeowners try to bury or bag and discard dead animals on their own, but this often creates more problems than it solves.
Improper burial can attract other animals or spread disease through the soil. Bagging and placing the carcass in regular trash can violate local disposal regulations and create sanitation hazards.
In Maryland, it’s best to contact licensed wildlife removal experts who know how to handle, transport, and dispose of the carcass safely and legally. K.P. Wildlife Control follows all local and state health regulations to ensure proper handling and sanitation.
Schedule a Professional Cleanup and Inspection
After removal, it’s essential to have the area cleaned, disinfected, and inspected to prevent future issues. Bodily fluids from decomposing animals can contaminate nearby surfaces and soil, posing ongoing health risks.
K.P. Wildlife provides complete cleanup services using commercial-grade disinfectants designed to eliminate harmful pathogens and neutralize odors.
During your service, our technicians will also:
- Check for signs of nesting or additional animal activity
- Identify and seal potential entry points
- Offer preventive recommendations to keep wildlife away
Safe, Humane Dead Animal Removal in Maryland
Dealing with a dead animal is never pleasant, but you don’t have to handle it alone. At K.P. Wildlife Control, we provide safe, efficient, and humane removal for all types of wildlife, including raccoons, squirrels, groundhogs, birds, and more.
Our trained technicians are fully equipped to handle dead animal removal, sanitation, and exclusion services, so you can protect your property and your peace of mind. If you’ve found a dead animal on your property or suspect one inside your home, don’t wait for the problem (or the smell) to get worse. Call K.P. Wildlife Control today at (443) 282-5035 to schedule professional removal and inspection services.
