How To Remove Dead Animal From Yard Safely Today

Finding a dead animal in your yard is never a pleasant experience. What should you do about a dead animal in your yard? Is it safe to remove a dead animal myself? Who is responsible for removing a dead animal? Can I bury a dead animal in my yard? Dealing with an animal carcass can raise many questions about safety, health, and proper disposal. It is generally safe to remove small dead animals yourself if you take the right steps and use proper gear. The property owner is usually responsible for removal. For very small animals, you might be able to bury them in your yard, but this depends on local laws. This guide will walk you through each step of removing a dead animal from your yard today, focusing on your safety and preventing future issues.

How To Remove Dead Animal From Yard
Image Source: www.smokywildlifecontrol.com

Why Removing a Dead Animal Matters

Leaving a dead animal in your yard is not a good idea. It can cause several problems:

Bad Smell: As the body breaks down, it releases strong, unpleasant odors. This smell can attract other pests and make your yard unwelcoming. How to get rid of dead animal smell is often a main concern.
Attracting Pests: Scavengers like flies, maggots (dealing with maggots on dead animal is a common issue), rodents, raccoons, and even larger predators may be drawn to the carcass. This can lead to new pest problems in your yard or home.
Disease Risk: Dead animals can carry germs and parasites that can spread to humans or pets. Disease risk from dead animals is real. Touching or handling the animal without protection, or even being near it, can pose a health hazard.
Unhygienic Conditions: The area around the carcass can become contaminated with fluids and decaying matter, making it unsafe. Disinfecting area after animal removal is a crucial step.

Proper and safe removal of animal carcass is important for health, hygiene, and peace of mind.

Preparing for Safe Removal

Before you touch anything, gather your supplies. Having everything ready makes the job quicker and safer. Supplies for removing dead animal are simple items you might already have.

Essential Supplies

Strong Gloves: Use thick rubber, nitrile, or heavy-duty work gloves. Do not use thin kitchen gloves. You need gloves that will not tear easily.
Face Mask or Respirator: A simple dust mask is okay, but an N95 mask or a respirator offers better protection against airborne particles and smells.
Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles protect your eyes from splashes or dust.
Long Sleeves and Pants: Wear clothing that covers your skin completely. You might want to wear clothes you can wash in hot water right after, or even clothes you can throw away if the situation is very messy.
Heavy-Duty Plastic Bags: Use at least two thick bags. Contractor bags or thick trash bags work well. You will double-bag the animal.
Shovel or Trowel: Do not use your hands to pick up the animal. A shovel, trowel, or even a piece of cardboard or plastic sheeting can help you move the carcass into the bag.
Disinfectant: A bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) or a commercial disinfectant spray is needed to clean the area after removal.
Bucket: Useful for mixing disinfectant or carrying supplies.

Optional but Helpful Supplies

Lime or Baking Soda: These can help absorb moisture and reduce smell in the area after the animal is removed and the area cleaned.
Zip Ties or Strong Tape: To seal the plastic bags securely.
Odor Neutralizer: Sprays or granules can help with lingering smells after cleaning.

Having these items ready means you won’t have to stop in the middle of the process to look for something.

The Removal Process: Step-by-Step

Once you have your supplies, you are ready to approach the animal. Move carefully and calmly.

Step 1: Assess the Situation

Location: Where is the animal? Is it easy to reach? Is it near water or obstacles?
Size: How big is the animal? Can you handle it with your shovel and bags, or is it too large? For larger animals like deer or coyotes, calling professional animal removal services is often the best option.
Condition: How long has it been there? Is it fresh or badly decomposed? This affects the smell and the presence of maggots.
Animal Type: Is it a common animal like a squirrel or bird, or something less common? Be aware that some animals may be protected or require specific handling (e.g., rabies risk with raccoons, foxes, bats). If you suspect rabies (foaming mouth, strange behavior before death), do NOT touch it and call animal control.

Step 2: Gear Up

Put on all your protective gear: gloves, mask, eye protection, long sleeves, and pants. Make sure gloves are pulled over the cuffs of your sleeves if possible.

Step 3: Prepare the Bag

Open your first heavy-duty plastic bag and place it near the animal. It helps to fold the top edge down to make a cuff; this keeps the outside of the bag cleaner when you put the animal inside. Place the second bag near the first, ready for double-bagging.

Step 4: Carefully Move the Animal

Use your shovel or other tool to scoop the animal into the prepared bag. Do this gently to avoid disturbing the carcass more than needed. Avoid direct contact with the animal’s body or fluids. If the animal is large or heavy, this step can be difficult and is another reason to consider calling professional animal removal.

Step 5: Seal the Bags

Once the animal is in the first bag, carefully close it. Twist the top of the bag and seal it tightly with a zip tie, strong tape, or by knotting it securely. Then, place this sealed bag inside the second bag. Twist and seal the second bag just as tightly. Double-bagging is important to contain odors and prevent leaks. This is part of ensuring proper disposal of animal remains.

Step 6: Clean Your Tools

Before taking your bagged animal for disposal, clean the tools you used. You can spray them with your disinfectant solution while still outside. This prevents spreading germs inside your house.

Step 7: Remove Your Gear Safely

Carefully remove your gloves, mask, and eye protection. Remove gloves by peeling them off inside out, so your clean hand doesn’t touch the dirty outside. Dispose of disposable gloves and masks in a separate trash bag. Wash reusable eye protection and tools with hot, soapy water and then disinfect them.

Dealing with Specific Issues

Sometimes, you face extra challenges like strong smells or maggots.

How to Get Rid of Dead Animal Smell

The smell can linger even after the animal is gone.

Ventilation: Open windows if the smell has drifted inside. Use fans to air out the area.
Cleaning the Area: Disinfecting area after animal removal, as described later, is key to removing the source of the strongest odor.
Absorb Odors: Sprinkle baking soda, activated charcoal, or commercial odor absorbent granules on the spot where the animal was found after cleaning and drying the area. Let it sit for a few hours or a day, then sweep it up.
Natural Deodorizers: White vinegar or coffee grounds can help absorb odors in indoor spaces if the smell has gotten inside, but are less effective outdoors for a large area.
Enzymatic Cleaners: These cleaners break down the organic matter causing the smell. They can be very effective on surfaces or soil. Follow product instructions carefully.
Airflow Outdoors: If the smell is outdoors, increasing air movement can help dissipate it faster.

Dealing with Maggots on Dead Animal

Seeing maggots can be unsettling. Maggots are fly larvae and are a natural part of the decomposition process. They are not harmful in themselves, but they indicate decomposition is happening and flies are present.

Containment: The key is to contain the animal and the maggots safely within the double bags.
Speed: The sooner you remove the animal, the fewer maggots there will be, and the less time they have to spread or turn into flies.
Cleaning: After removing the animal, clean and disinfect the area thoroughly. This kills any remaining maggots or eggs left behind.
Residual Treatment (Optional): If you see a lot of maggots remaining on the ground after the carcass is removed and cleaned, you can try sprinkling lime or diatomaceous earth, which can help dry them out. However, thorough cleaning is usually enough.

Remember, the presence of maggots confirms that decomposition is underway, increasing the importance of safe and timely removal.

Cleaning and Disinfecting the Area

Simply removing the animal is not enough. The spot where it lay can be contaminated. Disinfecting area after animal removal reduces disease risk from dead animals and helps eliminate lingering odors.

Cleaning Steps

Remove Gross Matter: Make sure you’ve picked up any obvious pieces of organic material left behind using your shovel or trowel. Bag this material as well if necessary.
Prepare Disinfectant: Mix your disinfectant solution. For bleach, use 1 part bleach with 9 parts water. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners.
Apply Disinfectant: Carefully pour or spray the disinfectant solution onto the exact spot where the animal was. Extend the area slightly beyond where the body was.
Let It Sit: Allow the disinfectant to sit on the area for the time recommended on the product label. For bleach, usually 10-15 minutes is enough to kill most germs.
Rinse (Optional): Depending on the product and location, you might want to rinse the area with water after the contact time is up, especially if it’s an area where pets or children play. However, outdoors, rain will eventually handle this.
Allow to Dry: Let the area air dry completely.

This cleaning step is vital for hygiene and odor control.

Dead Animal Disposal Methods

Once the animal is safely bagged, you need to get rid of it properly. There are different dead animal disposal methods, and the best one depends on the animal’s size, your location, and local laws. Proper disposal of animal remains is necessary.

Method 1: Municipal Trash Collection

How it Works: For small animals like birds, squirrels, or rodents, many cities and towns allow you to double-bag the carcass securely and place it in your regular trash bin.
Check Local Rules: Always check with your local waste management service or city hall first. Rules vary greatly. Some areas have weight limits, size limits, or specific requirements for animal remains.
Pros: Often the easiest method for small animals.
Cons: Not allowed everywhere, not suitable for larger animals.

Method 2: Burying on Your Property

How it Works: You dig a deep hole on your property and bury the double-bagged animal.
Burying Animal in Yard Regulations: This is where regulations become very important.
- Legality: Is it legal in your area? Some places prohibit burying animals due to potential groundwater contamination or attracting scavengers.
- Depth: Regulations often specify minimum burial depth. This is usually at least 3-4 feet (about 1 meter) to prevent other animals from digging it up and to allow for proper decomposition.
- Location: You must bury it away from water sources (wells, streams, lakes) and property lines.
- Size: Burial is typically only allowed for small pets or small wild animals. Large animals are usually prohibited.
- Marking: Some people mark the spot, though this isn’t usually required by law.
Process: Dig the hole to the required depth. Place the double-bagged animal in the hole. Cover completely with soil, packing it down firmly.
Pros: Can be done immediately, avoids needing to transport the body.
Cons: Not legal everywhere, requires significant digging, risk if not done deep enough or if location is not chosen carefully regarding water.

Method 3: Contacting Animal Control or Public Works

How it Works: For larger wild animals, or if you are unable or unwilling to handle the removal yourself, you can call your local animal control, public works department, or sanitation department.
What They Do: They may offer pickup services for dead animals on public property (like roadsides) and sometimes on private property, though fees may apply. Services vary hugely by location.
Pros: They have the equipment and procedures for safe and legal disposal, especially for larger animals. Takes the task off your hands.
Cons: May involve a fee, may not cover private property, may take time for them to arrive.

Method 4: Calling a Professional Animal Removal Service

How it Works: Professional pest control or wildlife removal companies often offer dead animal removal services.
What They Do: They are equipped to handle animals of any size, located in difficult spots (attics, under decks), and they know the legal disposal methods. They also handle the cleaning and disinfection.
Pros: Safe, convenient, handles all aspects including disposal and cleaning, suitable for any animal size or location.
Cons: This is a paid service and can be expensive.

Method 5: Pet Cremation/Burial Services (Less Likely for Wild Animals)

How it Works: This is primarily for deceased pets. There are services that offer cremation or burial in pet cemeteries.
Relevance: Less relevant for wild animals found in the yard, but an option if the animal was a stray you cared for, or if you want a formal process for a wild animal you feel a connection to (though this is uncommon).

Choosing the right disposal method is a critical part of proper disposal of animal remains. Always prioritize checking local rules before deciding, especially regarding burying animal in yard regulations.

When to Call Professional Animal Removal

While you can safely remove small animals yourself, there are times when calling professional animal removal is the smarter choice.

Large Animals: Dealing with a dead deer, coyote, or other large animal requires significant strength, equipment, and knowledge of handling large carcasses. Most homeowners are not equipped for this.
Difficult Locations: If the animal is in a hard-to-reach spot like under a house, in a wall, in an attic, or down a drain, professionals have the tools and expertise to retrieve it without causing damage or putting themselves at risk.
Suspected Rabies or Other Diseases: If the animal was acting strangely before death, or if it’s a type of animal known to carry rabies (bats, raccoons, skunks, foxes), do not approach it. Call animal control or a professional. They can test the animal if needed and handle it safely. Disease risk from dead animals like these is higher.
Multiple Animals: If you find more than one dead animal, it could indicate a larger issue (like poisoning or disease outbreak) that professionals are better equipped to investigate.
Uncomfortable with the Task: It’s perfectly okay if you feel too squeamish, scared, or overwhelmed to perform the removal yourself. Professionals do this regularly and can handle it efficiently and safely.
Protected Species: If the animal might be a protected or endangered species, contact your state’s wildlife agency. Disturbing or disposing of such animals incorrectly can be illegal.

Professionals ensure safe removal of animal carcass and proper disposal of animal remains according to all regulations. They also handle the thorough cleaning and disinfection, addressing how to get rid of dead animal smell at the source.

Preventing Future Incidents

Once you’ve dealt with the current situation, you might want to take steps to reduce the chances of finding dead animals in your yard again.

Secure Trash Cans: Keep lids tightly closed to avoid attracting scavengers looking for food.
Remove Food Sources: Don’t leave pet food outside. Pick up fallen fruit from trees. Secure compost piles.
Limit Shelter: Seal off access points under decks, sheds, or into crawl spaces where animals might nest and die.
Manage Rodents: If you have a rodent problem, address it safely. Note that using poisons can lead to animals dying in hidden places (walls, attics) and also can cause secondary poisoning to predators or pets that eat the poisoned rodent.
Talk to Neighbors: Coordinate efforts if multiple properties are affected.

Interpreting Decomposition Stages

The state of the animal’s body can give you clues about how long it has been there and what to expect during removal (like smell and maggots).

Fresh: Body is still flexible, no strong odor, might have some flies landing on it. This is the easiest stage for removal.
Bloated: Body is swollen with gases, strong smell begins, first signs of maggots might appear around natural openings (eyes, nose, mouth).
Active Decay: Body starts to collapse, very strong odor, large numbers of maggots are usually present, fluids may leak. Dealing with maggots on dead animal is common here. This stage has the highest immediate disease risk from direct contact and smell.
Advanced Decay: Most flesh is gone, mainly skin, hair, and bones remain. Odor starts to fade. Maggots may be less visible as they turn into flies.
Skeletal: Only bones remain. Little to no odor or maggots.

Knowing the stage helps you prepare for the smell and potential mess, reinforcing the need for safe removal of animal carcass.

Grasping the Importance of Disinfection

Let’s look a bit deeper into why disinfecting the area is non-negotiable. When an animal dies, especially if it was sick, it can leave behind harmful microorganisms.

Bacteria: Many types of bacteria thrive in decomposition and can cause illness.
Viruses: Depending on the animal, viruses could be present.
Parasites: Fleas, ticks, mites, and internal parasites can leave the host after death and potentially transfer to other animals or humans in the area.
Fluids: Bodily fluids released during decomposition can contain a concentrated amount of these hazards.

Disinfecting area after animal removal kills these germs on the surface, significantly lowering the disease risk from dead animals on that specific spot.

Choosing a Disinfectant

Bleach: A standard household bleach solution (1:9 bleach to water) is effective against many pathogens. It’s cheap and readily available. Use it carefully as it can damage some surfaces or kill plants. Do not use it on porous surfaces like unsealed wood or concrete where it won’t reach deep enough.
Commercial Disinfectants: Look for products labeled as disinfectants or virucides/bactericides. Make sure they are suitable for outdoor use and follow the instructions exactly. Some are formulated to also help with odor.
Enzymatic Cleaners: While great for odors and breaking down organic matter, not all enzymatic cleaners are disinfectants. Check the label. Some do have disinfectant properties.

Always wear gloves and eye protection when working with disinfectants. Ensure good ventilation.

Fathoming Proper Disposal Techniques

Let’s reiterate the importance of proper disposal of animal remains. This isn’t just about getting rid of the body; it’s about doing it in a way that is safe, legal, and prevents problems.

Containment: The double-bagging is the first critical step. It contains the body, fluids, smells, and any parasites or maggots. This is essential for any disposal method.
Legal Compliance: Following burying animal in yard regulations or using approved municipal or professional services ensures you aren’t breaking laws or creating public health hazards. Ignoring rules about burial depth or location can lead to contamination of water sources or animals digging up the remains.
Environmental Impact: Proper methods minimize the environmental impact of decomposition, preventing the spread of potential contaminants into the soil or water.
Community Health: By disposing of animal remains correctly, you help protect the health of your neighbors and local wildlife by not creating a source of disease or attracting pests to the area.

Dead animal disposal methods are designed with these factors in mind. Whether it’s through your trash service, a regulated burial, or professional help, ensure the final step is done correctly.

Compiling Disposal Options in a Table

Here’s a quick comparison of common dead animal disposal methods:

Method	Best For	Pros	Cons	Key Considerations
Municipal Trash	Small animals (rodents, birds)	Easy, convenient (if allowed)	Not allowed everywhere, size/weight limits apply	MUST check local rules; Double-bag securely.
Burying in Yard	Small animals/pets	Immediate, on-site	Legality varies, requires digging, depth rules	Check burying animal in yard regulations; bury deep.
Animal Control / Public Works	Larger wild animals	Handles larger animals, official procedures	Varies by location, may charge, may take time	Call first to confirm service and process.
Professional Removal Service	Any size/location, difficult scenarios	Safe, convenient, handles everything, experts	Cost	Best for large animals, hidden carcasses, or if unsure.
Pet Cremation/Burial (Pet Services)	Deceased pets	Respectful, formal	Cost, less relevant for wild animals found.	Usually arranged through a vet or specific service.

This table summarizes the dead animal disposal methods available to you.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take for a dead animal to decompose?

A: This depends on the animal’s size, temperature, humidity, and if insects (like maggots) are present. A small bird might decompose significantly in a week in warm weather, while a larger animal could take weeks or months. Maggots speed up the process considerably.

Q: Will lime reduce the smell of a dead animal?

A: Yes, after the animal is removed and the area is cleaned, sprinkling agricultural lime or baking soda can help absorb some lingering moisture and odor from the soil. It doesn’t get rid of the source (the body), only helps with residues.

Q: Can I get sick from being near a dead animal?

A: Yes, there is a disease risk from dead animals. You can inhale particles carrying pathogens, or parasites like fleas could jump off the body. This risk is higher if the animal was sick or if you are very close to it without protection. This is why safe removal of animal carcass with gear is crucial.

Q: What should I do if my pet finds a dead animal?

A: Prevent your pet from touching, eating, or rolling on the carcass. Keep them away from the area. Check your pet for any obvious injuries or parasites. Depending on the animal and your location, consult your vet as a precaution, especially if your pet ate part of the carcass or is not up-to-date on vaccinations. Then, proceed with safe removal of animal carcass as described in this guide.

Q: How can I deter animals from dying in my yard?

A: Focus on preventing animals from being in your yard in the first place, especially animals that might be sick or injured. Remove attractants like unsecured trash or pet food. Seal up potential den sites under structures. Healthy wildlife is less likely to die unexpectedly in your yard.

Q: Is it okay to leave a very small dead animal, like a mouse or bird?

A: While some people might leave very small carcasses for nature to handle, it’s generally better practice to remove them, especially near your home or areas pets/children use. Even small animals can carry diseases or attract unwanted pests. Safe removal of animal carcass, regardless of size, is the safest approach.

Q: The smell is terrible, what can I do while waiting for removal?

A: If the animal is large or you are waiting for professional help, you can try covering the animal with a thick layer of baking soda or even soil (if appropriate and not a large protected animal needing examination) to help absorb some odor temporarily. Avoid strong chemicals directly on the body. Ensure good ventilation around the area if possible. Focus on how to get rid of dead animal smell after removal with cleaning and deodorizers.

Conclusion

Finding a dead animal in your yard is unpleasant, but it’s a task you can often handle safely yourself with the right preparation and steps. Remember the importance of protective gear, careful handling, thorough cleaning and disinfecting area after animal removal, and proper disposal of animal remains. Always check local burying animal in yard regulations and dead animal disposal methods. For larger animals, difficult situations, or if you’re uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to consider calling professional animal removal services. By taking these actions, you protect your health, your family, your pets, and keep your yard clean and safe.