1. How do I know if there is a dead animal in my home?

The most common sign of a dead animal in your home is a strong, unpleasant odor that persists and worsens over time. Other signs include increased insect activity, such as flies or maggots near walls, vents, or crawl spaces. You may also notice stains or discoloration on walls or ceilings if the animal has died inside a hidden space. If you hear scratching noises that suddenly stop, it could indicate that a trapped animal has died. If you suspect a dead animal but can’t locate it, professional removal services can perform an inspection and safely remove the carcass.

2. What are the health risks of having a dead animal in my home?

Dead animals pose serious health hazards due to bacteria, parasites, and the gases released during decomposition. Decomposing carcasses can spread diseases like Leptospirosis, Salmonella, and Tularemia through airborne particles and contact with contaminated surfaces. They also attract secondary pests, such as flies, beetles, and rodents, which can cause additional infestations. If not removed quickly, the contamination from a dead animal can lead to respiratory issues, foul odors, and unsafe living conditions.

3. Where do dead animals commonly end up inside homes?

Dead animals are often found in hard-to-reach areas, including:

• Inside walls or ceilings (especially rodents like mice and rats).
• Attics and crawl spaces, where squirrels, raccoons, or bats may have died.
• Under porches, decks, and sheds, where skunks, groundhogs, or opossums may take shelter before dying.
• Basements and garages, particularly if an animal became trapped and dehydrated.
• Inside chimneys or ventilation ducts, which can lead to serious odor and airflow issues.

If you detect a persistent foul smell but can’t locate the source, professional wildlife removal services can perform a thorough inspection and remove the carcass.

4. Can I remove a dead animal myself?

While small dead animals like mice can be removed carefully with gloves and a sealable bag, larger carcasses require professional removal due to biohazard risks. Improper handling can expose you to bacteria, viruses, and parasites, as well as create contamination in your home. Professionals use protective gear, specialized tools, and industrial-grade sanitization techniques to remove the animal safely and eliminate odors. If the dead animal is inside a wall, under flooring, or in an attic, a trained technician can extract it without causing additional property damage.

5. How do professionals remove dead animals from homes and properties?

Professional dead animal removal services follow a safe and thorough process:

1. Inspection – Technicians locate the carcass using odor detection, thermal imaging, or access points.
2. Safe Removal – The dead animal is carefully extracted using protective gear and containment tools.
3. Sanitization & Disinfection – The affected area is cleaned with biohazard-grade disinfectants to remove bacteria and prevent disease.
4. Odor Elimination – Industrial-strength odor neutralizers or ozone treatments are used to eliminate lingering smells.
5. Prevention Measures – Experts inspect entry points and recommend wildlife exclusion methods to prevent future infestations.

Hiring a licensed wildlife removal expert ensures that the process is handled legally, safely, and effectively.

6. What should I do if I find a dead animal in my yard?

If you find a dead animal in your yard, follow these steps:

1. Avoid direct contact – Wear gloves and avoid touching the carcass with bare hands.
2. Check local regulations – Some areas have laws regarding animal disposal and require professional removal.
3. Contact animal control or a wildlife removal service – If the animal is large, decomposing, or potentially diseased, professional removal is recommended.
4. Secure trash bins – If removing a small animal yourself, double-bag it and place it in a sealed trash container for disposal.
5. Sanitize the area – Use a strong disinfectant to clean the area and prevent bacteria or parasites from spreading.

If the dead animal attracts scavengers or has been there for an extended period, professional cleanup is necessary to ensure safe disposal and decontamination.

7. How can I prevent animals from dying inside my home?

Preventing animals from entering your home and dying in hidden areas involves sealing entry points and reducing attractants:

• Inspect and seal gaps, cracks, and holes in walls, foundations, and vents.
• Install chimney caps and vent covers to keep out birds, bats, and rodents.
• Keep pet food and trash secured to prevent attracting wildlife.
• Use humane exclusion techniques for attics and crawl spaces.
• Trim overgrown vegetation and remove debris where animals might hide.

Regular pest control and wildlife inspections can help detect and address potential animal intrusions before they become a problem.

8. How much does dead animal removal cost in Michigan?

The cost of dead animal removal varies based on the size of the animal, its location, and the extent of odor and damage cleanup required. On average, prices range from:

• $150 – $300 for a small animal (e.g., mouse, bird, or squirrel) in an accessible area.
• $300 – $600 for a medium-sized animal (e.g., raccoon, opossum) in a wall, attic, or crawl space.
• $600+ for large animal removal with extensive sanitization and odor removal.

Some wildlife removal companies offer same-day emergency services for urgent situations. For accurate pricing, it’s best to schedule an inspection with a licensed wildlife control professional.