We're here to guide you on how to get rid of dead animal smell with our trusty tips and tricks.
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Locate the dead animal
First, you'll have to follow the smell. The stronger the odor, the closer you are to the dead animal. Take your time and walk around your home, sniffing out the area where the smell is most potent. Remember to be patient, as it might take some time to pinpoint the exact location.
Next, keep an eye out for flies or maggots, as they're often attracted to decomposing animals. If you notice an unusual number of flies or maggots in a specific area, it's a good indication that the dead animal is nearby.
Now, let's talk about some common hiding spots where animals may have crawled before dying. These are the places you should investigate thoroughly:
Walls: Animals like rodents can get into your walls through tiny openings. Check for any holes or cracks in the walls that may have allowed them to enter.
Attic: Many animals, especially rodents and birds, find their way into attics. Inspect your attic for signs of animal activity, like droppings, nests, or chewed wires. Use a flashlight to help you see better in dark corners and hidden spaces.
Crawl spaces: Crawl spaces are another popular hiding spot for animals. Put on some protective clothing, grab a flashlight, and carefully inspect your crawl space for any signs of the dead animal, such as the smell, flies, or remains.
Basements: Basements can be damp and dark, making them an attractive location for animals seeking shelter. Check your basement for any signs of animal entry, like holes or gaps. Look for any unusual stains, odors, or fly activity that might indicate the presence of a dead animal.
Remove the dead animal
Now that you've located the dead animal, let's discuss how to remove it safely and properly. It's essential to follow certain precautions to protect yourself from potential health risks and to dispose of the animal responsibly.
First, before you even touch the dead animal, make sure to wear protective gear. This includes gloves, a face mask, and goggles. You’ll need to wear these items all through the process of getting rid of the smell.
Once you're geared up, it's time to remove the animal…
Use your gloved hand or a tool like a pair of tongs to gently pick up the dead animal. Then, place it in a heavy-duty plastic bag or a sealable plastic container. The idea is to avoid direct contact with the dead animal and to contain the smell and any contaminants. Try to avoid any sudden movements that might cause the animal to rupture or release more odors.
Once the animal is inside, seal the bag or container tightly to prevent any smell or contaminants from escaping. If you're using a plastic bag, it's a good idea to double-bag it for extra security.
Now that you've safely removed the dead animal, it's time to dispose of it according to local regulations. Each area may have different rules and guidelines for dead animal disposal. So, it's essential to check with your local waste management or animal control department.
Some common disposal methods include:
Placing the sealed bag or container in your regular trash (if allowed by local regulations)
Bringing the dead animal to a designated disposal site or facility
Burying the animal on your property (if allowed and done in a manner that complies with local regulations)
Clean the affected area
It‘s advisable to get rid of any materials that have come into contact with the dead animal, such as insulation, carpet, or fabric. This is important to prevent the spread of bacteria and to ensure that any lingering smells are eliminated. However, if you cannot get rid of such materials, you need to clean them thoroughly.
To clean the affected area as well as the affected materials, you can use enzyme-based cleaners.