Dead Animal Removal & Cleanup in Harlan, IA

Dead animals can carry bacteria, parasites and viruses that pass to people and pets through touch or contaminated surfaces. Wild animals may also carry illnesses such as rabies. Avoid contact and let a cleanup team handle removal.

Sometimes. A small animal in plain sight can be bagged with gloves and a heavy bag, sealed and disposed of properly. Hidden, large or long-dead animals are a different job, because fluids soak into materials and germs can spread.

Do not touch it bare-handed. Wear heavy gloves, place it in a heavy bag, seal it and dispose of it according to local rules. Wash your hands well afterward. If it is large or you are unsure, call for help.

Hard surfaces, wood framing and items in sealed containers can usually be cleaned and kept. Insulation, carpet, padding and drywall that soaked up fluids are generally removed. The crew sorts items with you before anything is thrown out.

As an animal decomposes, bacteria break down tissue and release gases with a strong, sickly-sweet smell. In an enclosed wall or attic, that odor has nowhere to go and spreads through the house. Removing the source is the only real fix.

The smell comes from the carcass and any fluids, so the animal has to be found and removed. Air fresheners only cover it. After removal, the area is cleaned and treated, which usually clears the smell.