Finding a dead squirrel in your yard can be unsettling, especially if you’ve accidentally touched it. If you come into contact with a dead squirrel, it’s crucial to wash your hands thoroughly and avoid touching your face until your hands are clean. This helps prevent any potential transmission of diseases that can come from wild animals.
After washing your hands, it’s important to properly dispose of the squirrel, using gloves and a plastic bag to avoid direct contact. You might wonder what to do next, such as whether to call animal control or take care of it yourself. This article will guide you through the steps you should take to handle this situation safely and effectively.
Don’t panic; understanding how to deal with a dead squirrel can ease your worries and help you take the right actions quickly. Let’s explore the best practices for cleaning up after finding a dead squirrel in your yard.
Immediate Actions After Contact
If you accidentally touch a dead squirrel, it’s important to act quickly and carefully. You should assess the situation to understand any risks involved. Personal safety is paramount, as there are potential health risks, including diseases and parasites. Additionally, preventing further contamination is vital to keep everyone safe.
Assess the Situation
First, check if the squirrel is truly dead. Look for obvious signs, like a lack of movement or response to touch. If it’s alive but injured, contact a wildlife professional.
Be aware that dead animals can carry diseases. Squirrels may be potential carriers of rabies, though it’s rare. If there are any visible wounds on you after contact, note them for later.
Practice Personal Safety
Immediately wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This helps to eliminate any germs or parasites that may be on your hands.
Wear protective gloves if possible to avoid contact with bodily fluids. If you have touched the animal without gloves, refrain from touching your face, mouth, or eyes until you’ve washed your hands.
If you experience any bites or scratches from handling a wild animal, clean the area with soap and water. Contact your physician for advice on further precautions, such as rabies vaccination.
Prevent Further Contamination
After you’ve assessed your situation and practiced personal safety, it’s essential to prevent further contamination. Do not leave the area as-is, especially if it’s a place where pets or children might access it.
Carefully use a plastic bag to pick up the squirrel. Make sure to wear gloves during this process. Seal the bag tightly to contain any potential pathogens.
After disposal, clean the area where you found the squirrel using disinfectant. This reduces the risk of spreading diseases to other animals or humans nearby.
Safe Disposal of the Carcass
When you find a dead squirrel, it’s important to handle the situation safely and responsibly. Proper disposal can help prevent health risks and unpleasant odors. Here’s how to do it effectively.
Assess Local Regulations
Before disposing of the dead squirrel, check your local regulations. Some areas have specific rules about animal disposal. This may include guidelines on burial depth or whether you need to call animal control or wildlife removal services.
You can usually find this information on your local government website. If in doubt, contacting sanitation services is a good option. They can provide guidance and ensure you follow the rules to avoid any fines or issues.
Prepare for Disposal
Gather the necessary tools to make disposal easier. You’ll need a shovel to dig if you plan to bury the squirrel. A plastic bag is also essential for safe handling. Always wear gloves to avoid direct contact with the carcass.
Prepare a safe location for the burial that is at least 2 feet deep and away from water sources. If you smell any strong odor, consider using commercial deodorizers to manage unpleasant scents while you work.
Proper Disposal Methods
There are several safe methods to dispose of a dead squirrel. Burying is often the preferred choice. Make sure to dig the hole deep enough to prevent any scavengers from digging it up.
If burial is not an option, placing the carcass in a sealed plastic bag and disposing of it in your trash may be allowed. Make sure to check local guidelines first.
You can also call animal control or a wildlife removal service for assistance. They can help ensure the squirrel is handled properly and safely. Avoid necropsy unless you have specific training, as this can pose health risks.
