Here’s What Not to do When You Find a Dead Animal in Your Yard in Mississauga

By

Published October 18, 2018 at 5:58 pm

grave

No one likes to wake up to an unpleasant discovery, but sometimes nature is cruel.

While it’s not terribly uncommon for Mississauga residents to find garbage or other debris on their lawns or in their yards from time to time, not everyone knows what to do when they discover a deceased wild animal–such as a bird, rabbit, raccoon or opossum–on their property.

Contrary to popular belief, deceased squirrels do not belong in the trash.

“This item can be hazardous to safety or health,” the Region of Peel writes on its website.

“Do not place a dead animal in your recycling, organics, or garbage for collection.”

But while the grisly discovery is always unwelcome, it’s not one to be ignored.

According to the Region of Peel, property owners are responsible for disposing of dead wild animals on private property.

If this is something that you don’t feel able to do, you should note that private businesses will dispose of dead wild animals for a fee.

If you choose to dispose of the dead animal yourself, consider burying it next to a tree or property line.

Residents are, obviously, not responsible for any deceased animals discovered on city-owned or public property.

If you encounter a dead animal in a park or on another piece of city property in Brampton or Mississauga, you can call 3-1-1.

If you find a dead wild animal in Caledon, you can call 905-584-2272.

So, what should you know if you do decide to bury a deceased animal that you found on your lawn or in your yard?

“If you must handle dead animals or birds, wear rubber gloves or protective material,” the region says.

Residents are also advised throw away any used gloves or protective material, wash their hands thoroughly after handling carcasses and disinfect any tool that came into contact with the animal.

If you are concerned about the appearance of dead animals on your property and believe experts should know about, contact the appropriate provincial agency here.

insauga's Editorial Standards and Policies advertising