FAQ

Animal control refers to services that manage and respond to incidents involving wild or stray animals, particularly those that may pose a risk to public health, safety, or property. This includes removal, relocation, and sometimes the humane euthanasia of animals that are causing problems.

Animal control typically deals with a wide variety of wildlife and domestic animals, including raccoons, squirrels, skunks, bats, opossums, coyotes, stray dogs, and feral cats. They also assist with animal cruelty investigations and enforcing local pet laws.

You should contact animal control if you encounter a wild animal on your property that is injured, acting aggressively, or poses a threat to your safety or property. You may also call if there’s a stray or abandoned animal that needs assistance or to address nuisance wildlife issues like raccoon or squirrel infestations.

Professional animal control companies use humane traps, exclusion methods (sealing entry points), and relocation techniques to safely remove raccoons or other wildlife. They aim to avoid harm to the animals while resolving the issue and preventing future intrusions.

Yes, most reputable animal control services prioritize humane and ethical treatment of animals. They follow local laws and regulations to ensure that wildlife is handled in a safe, non-lethal manner, often relocating animals to suitable habitats far away from urban areas.

Yes, most animal control services offer dead animal removal, especially if the animal is creating a health hazard or unpleasant odor. They will typically dispose of the remains according to local guidelines.

Prevention tips include sealing any gaps or holes in your home’s foundation, roof, or walls. Install chimney caps, secure vents, and repair any broken windows or doors. Keep food sources (like pet food, trash, or birdseed) away from the house, and trim back any overhanging tree branches that might give animals access to your roof.

Most wildlife removed by professional animal control services is relocated to a suitable environment where they can thrive without posing a danger to people or property. Some animals, like stray dogs, may be taken to shelters for adoption.

The cost of animal control services can vary depending on the type of animal, the complexity of the removal process, and local rates. Some services charge a flat fee, while others may charge hourly rates. It’s best to request an estimate before work begins.

Yes, many animal control agencies help with nuisance pets, including those that are overly aggressive, abandoned, or causing damage to property. They may offer guidance or direct you to local animal shelters or rescue organizations for further assistance.

If you come across an orphaned or injured baby animal, contact your local animal control service or wildlife rehabilitation center for advice. It’s important not to approach or handle the animal too much, as this can stress it or cause further harm.

Most animal control services focus on mammals and birds. For insect infestations (like termites, ants, or bedbugs), it’s best to call a pest control service. However, some wildlife removal companies may offer services for insect infestations that involve wildlife (such as bat guano or wasp nests).

Yes, animal control generally focuses on larger animals (wildlife, stray pets) and ensures that they are dealt with in a humane manner. Pest control, on the other hand, deals with smaller pests like insects or rodents and may involve different techniques such as extermination or traps.

If you encounter an aggressive animal, do not approach it. Keep a safe distance and try to retreat slowly. If the animal poses an immediate threat, contact animal control or your local authorities right away for help.

Many animal control services operate during regular business hours, but emergency services for wildlife encounters or aggressive animals may be available 24/7, depending on the location and the provider. Always check with your local service for specific hours of operation.