Why You Do Not Want to Make a Raccoon Your Pet

Posted on November 23, 2020 by admin

If you find a baby raccoon, do not attempt to make a rescue and bring it home as a pet. Instead, the wisest choice you can make is to walk away and let nature take its course. No matter how cute or helpless the pup may appear to be, they are not accustomed to human interaction, and will grow up to exhibit feral behaviors that are dangerous to people and pets. You see, it took tens of thousands of years to accomplish the healthy domestication we have with cats and dogs today. But raccoons are meant to be in the wild and remain undomesticated. Even if you are looking to buy a pet raccoon from a raccoon breeder, you might want to reconsider. Wild or not, raccoons are a massive undertaking and commitment on the part of the owner.

Continue reading to learn the exact reasons why wild raccoon domestication is a bad idea for anyone to attempt.

I might be cute now, but I will grow up to be a BIG PROBLEM.

Massive Amounts of Mess and Destruction

Raccoons are bred to roam free and explore their surroundings because they are extremely curious and intelligent creatures. A raccoon, at a certain age, begins to explore their curiosity even more, making their behavior severely destructive. If a person were to take in a wild raccoon, their home would be subjected to this destructive behavior and play time.

They are incredible climbers with very dexterous paws; this means they can climb counters and railings, as well as open doors, cabinets, and more. A domestic living situation is simply not ideal for raccoons and their natural needs and instincts. On the other end of things, a person could not possibly be able to care for a wild animal of this nature in a healthy and proper way. Altogether, raccoons in the house are a bad idea.

Health and Safety Risks of Pet Raccoons

Aside from property damage and lack of living space, there is another equally agreeable reason why wild raccoons should never be domesticated; the reason is human health and well-being. Raccoons are known carriers of many viral diseases that can be easily spread to adults, children, and other household pets. These viral illnesses include distemper, rabies, hepatitis, and more.

Along with the risk of contracting a viral disease through saliva and blood, there are more ways raccoons can implicate a persons’ health. Raccoon scat is raccoon droppings. These droppings are major carriers of sicknesses like roundworm that can be spread easily as well. There are many ways raccoons can make people sick; another reason why they should never be taken into a home.

Local and State Laws Governing Wildlife Domestication

Another serious reason why people should never try to domesticate a raccoon involves the law. In many states, owning a raccoon is simply against the law. If caught, a person can be liable for large fines, court hearings, and potential loss of pet ownership rights. In other states, a person can own such an animal if they apply and are approved for specific permits and licenses for wild animal ownership. The nest way to know what your state laws are on wild animal domestication is to avoid it altogether.

Central Indiana Raccoon Removal Services You Can Trust

Call 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon removal services you can trust. We are DNR licensed and experienced raccoon control specialists who only use safe and humane methods to exclude and extract raccoons. We also offer 24 hour emergency service, raccoon cleanup and restoration, inspections, and raccoon-proofing. Call 317-535-4605 to request a free estimate, today.

What to Do if You Find a Raccoon in the Dumpster

Posted on October 26, 2020 by admin

Researchers say raccoons are intelligent and have “ideas” and can solve problems. This gives them a human-like quality of curiosity. This abundant curiosity that raccoons have can sometimes get them into trouble. When raccoons are searching for food, they will try their hardest to reach any point necessary, or enter an area they believe holds delicious food scraps. Often times, dumpsters are a favorite choice for wild raccoons on the hunt for a fast dinner. They are excellent at entering dumpsters, but raccoons are not very good at making a dependable escape route. This is why so many are found trapped or isolated in empty dumpsters and large garbage receptacles.

Continue below to learn what you should do if you find a raccoon stuck in a dumper.

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How Raccoons Get Stuck in Dumpsters

Why did a raccoon get stuck in the dumpster? Well, despite the fact that they are intelligent and excellent climbers, they often end up in these predicaments because dumpsters are not full enough for them to climb out. Even though coons remember certain dumpsters they have raided in the past without any problem of exiting, these dumpsters are sometimes less-full or empty the next time they come around for food. And they certainly do not think before diving right in!

But if you ever see one stuck in a dumpster, do not panic. They can’t hurt you because they can’t even reach you! In fact, they are probably very scared and confused. You can expect the coon to hide in the corner with its nose pressed to the wall, or to ruffle their chest fur and hide their face inside. They almost behave in a way that indicates they’re embarrassed or ashamed. This makes you want to help them out even more!

How to Get a Raccoon Out of a Dumpster

To help a raccoon stuck in a dumpster, simply find something to place inside the receptacle that the animal can use to climb out. Be sure to keep your distance as soon as you place the item in the trash, and also be careful not to hit or harm the raccoon. Raccoons have great reach and can jump quite well; so, if a dumpster is four feet deep, you will only need an item 2 feet tall or more to help the raccoon.

Try items like a milk crate, sturdy box, a wooden 2×4, a large tree branch, and even a couple full bags of garbage. Open the lid on the opposite side of the coon, place these items right next to the side of the receptacle, and then walk away calmly but quickly. If you remain nearby, the animal might not attempt an escape, or could possibly attack you out of fear. An attack is not likely, but it is important to protect yourself no matter what the circumstance might be.

24 Hour Raccoon Control Assistance in Indianapolis, Indiana

If you are seeing wild raccoons helping themselves to the office dumpsters, your neighbor’s garbage cans, or your own, call our Indianapolis raccoon control specialists at 317-535-4605 today. Our DNR licensed and insured wildlife rescue and control contractors have over 25 years of experience delivering a wide range of Indianapolis raccoon removal services. We provide emergency service, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, and serve all of Central Indiana. Request free advice or estimates, anytime.

Beware That Raccoons are Foraging for Fall in Indiana

Posted on September 18, 2020 by admin

For homes located in rural areas or near wooded areas, this season is all about pest control. One of the most common nuisance animals to watch out for in the fall time is the wild raccoon. Continue reading to learn more about raccoon activity this time of year, and what to expect from raccoons as crepuscular and nocturnal foragers.

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Crepuscular and Nocturnal Foragers

This time of year, raccoons are looking for more than just food; they are also in search of dens and shelter to mate and breed their young. Generally, raccoons do most of their hunting and foraging at night, since they are nocturnal mammals. But now that temperatures are slowly becoming colder, raccoons will start to do their hunting and foraging earlier than before. The term, “crepuscular” simply refers to the twilight time before the sun fully sets. So when they are referred to as crepuscular foragers, it is being implied that they start their food hunt earlier in the evening than in spring and summer.

Some people are afraid when they spot raccoons out before the sun has set, since one of the most obvious signs of rabies is a raccoon out during the day. But twilight foraging is much different from daytime wandering, and does not indicate an infection at all. This does not mean you should attempt to touch or come into contact with a wild raccoon. Although they may be not be infected with rabies, they are known carriers of the virus, as well as, several other infection and unpleasant diseases.

If you are seeing raccoons on your property during twilight and evening hours, and they are beginning to become a threat to your property, it is time to call a local wildlife control company. They retain the proper tools and training to safely remove raccoons from interior areas of a property, as well as, inhibit raccoon trespassing and more. Be sure to choose a company that only uses non-lethal and humane methods of raccoon extraction and exclusion. And never attempt to trap, catch, or kill a raccoon under any circumstances.

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How to Get Rid of Raccoons in a Suburban Neighborhood

Posted on August 28, 2020 by admin

It is common for property owners to be confronted with a raccoon problem at some point in time. When home and building owners reach this dilemma, it is very crucial to act against them right away. Raccoons can cause extensive damage to the structural makeup of a building or home, as well as destroy expensive landscaping and leave behind huge, embarrassing messes. Raccoons are known to be smart and intuitive, relentlessly finding ways to trespass onto or into a property for food and shelter.

It is up to the property owner to act and remove raccoons permanently, and they can do this through a variety of ways. Continue reading to learn how.

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Raccoon Basics

Raccoons are from North America. They are a medium sized mammal, reaching anywhere from 15-30 inches in length, on average. Their weight averages between 10 and 20 pounds. They are known for their nocturnal lifestyle, sleeping during the day, and feeding and breeding at night. Raccoons normally feed on fruits, nuts, small prey such as frogs and crayfish, and plants.

However, raccoons that hover and colonize near suburban communities and neighborhoods, feed on different things. They will roam neighborhood streets in search of compost stacks and trash cans and rip through garbage looking for edible scraps. You can spot these creatures by their signature markings. They have a gray coat of fur with a black and gray striped tail. They also look as if they are wearing a black bandit mask right over their eyes.

Outside of the domesticated areas of our communities and neighborhoods, raccoons nest and burrow underground or in hollow trees. Sometimes they build their homes in brush piles or tree stumps. However, on the other side of the fence, raccoons will often times intrude into homes or buildings in search of shelter. They can burrow under porches, in crawl spaces, rooftops, attics, and more.

Their presence results in many types of damages to roofs and structural components of the property. They leave a huge mess and cause extensive damage and odor from their urine and droppings. They can rip off roof shingles, tear through insulation, saturate sheetrock and wood, leave behind germs and diseases, and destroy flower beds and gardens. There is no end to the amount of damage a raccoon colony can cause.

Raccoon Removal and Control Methods

Raccoon exclusion comes in many varieties. Choosing the right method depends on the size of the job and the resources available to a person. Many people in the past have succumbed to electrical wiring and fences to keep raccoons from coming on their property. Others have tried raccoon traps and snares. These are temporary treatments and will not prevent raccoons from invading forever.

The most effective way to treat a raccoon problem is by hiring a professional Indianapolis raccoon removal company. There are many ways to catch raccoons but only a professional company has the proper equipment and knowledge to remove raccoons safely and effectively. They can give property owners guidance on how to not attract pests in the future and implement actual methods and practices to ensure this.

Indianapolis Raccoon Removal You Can Trust

Call 317-535-4605 for Indianapolis raccoon removal services you can trust. We are DNR licensed and insured nuisance wildlife removal contractors who offer a wide range of raccoon removal and control services, including raccoon cleanup, raccoon proofing, minor restorations for raccoon damages, and more. Call 317-535-4605 to request a free estimate or emergency service, today.

How to Spot the Signs of Rabies in a Raccoon

Posted on July 27, 2020 by admin

Raccoons are dirty and destructive animals that tend to behave mischievously. But there is a more serious concern that encourages homeowners to protect their properties from nuisance raccoon activity. We are talking about the Rabies Virus. Raccoons are a common carrier of the Rabies virus, and although they do not always become actively infected or show signs of being a carrier, spotting a rabid raccoon is easy.

Continue reading to learn the most common signs that a raccoon has Rabies, and what to do if you come across one in nature or on your property.

Detecting Rabies Symptoms in Raccoons

Anytime you come across an animal, whether domesticated or wild, that you suspect has Rabies, always act as if they do, and keep your distance. As for raccoons, a healthy raccoon should be out at night, or dusk. Also, they should appear robust, coordinated, and seem as though they have an agenda. A healthy raccoon should exhibit all characteristics that a mammal in good condition would. Now, as for a rabid raccoon, the signs are very different.

Here are the Most Common Signs and Symptoms of a Rabid Raccoon:

The raccoon cannot walk straight, or has trouble walking. They might even appear to be intoxicated or confused, and might also be walking in circles.

The raccoon appears confused, disoriented, or reacting slow.

The raccoon is making strange sounds and noises. A little chit chatter with other coons is normal, but strange noises while out and about is not.

The raccoon is foaming at the mouth or has an abnormal amount of saliva. The raccoon may look like its drooling excessively. But no one should ever be close enough to a raccoon to see the foam in their mouths!

The raccoons looks sick, weak, dead, or appears as if it is dying.

The raccoon is out during the daytime hours. Although a healthy raccoon can do this from time to time, if a raccoon is demonstrating any of the above signs in addition to being out during the day, it may be rabid.

Indianapolis Raccoon Removal and Control at an Affordable Price

Call 317-535-4605 for prompt and professional Indianapolis raccoon removal services at the most competitive prices in town. We are DNR licensed and insured wildlife rescue and control contractors who offer residential and commercial raccoon abatement services throughout all of Central Indiana, including raccoon damage clean up services. Get started by requesting a free estimate, today.

Communicable Diseases That Can Be Carried By Raccoons

Posted on April 24, 2020 by admin

Wild raccoons are common carriers of various infectious and transmittable diseases. These maladies are unfavorable ailments to contract and treat. In humans, most of these communicable diseases are treatable, but nonetheless painful and unpleasant. In pets, the more serious infections are difficult to treat and are sometimes incurable.

Continue reading to learn some interesting and helpful facts about common transmittable raccoon diseases, and who to call to remove nuisance raccoons from your residential or commercial property.

Rabies Virus

Almost everyone has heard the term, “rabies”, before. If you have seen ravenous dogs foaming at the mouth on television, this is most likely the directors take on a rabid animal. The truth is that rabies is not a disease to brush off as a light matter. It is a very real and common threat to our outdoor pets, as well as, us and our children. The rabies virus can be transmitted through saliva or other bodily secretions such a blood. If mixed or ingested with another person or animal’s system, the disease can be born and can also be fatal.

Rabies vaccinations are available to the public and for pets. It is strongly suggested to take advantage of such vaccinations; especially if you have kids and pets, and live near wooded areas or communities. Other treatments include several infections, shots, immunizations, and medication. Unfortunately, in animals, rabies is almost always fatal.

Leptospirosis Bacterial Infection

The bacterium known as Leptospirosis is another infection that can be transmitted by wild raccoons. This bacterium is carried in raccoon urine, and can be accidentally digested or contacted by humans and pets. Most of the time, contaminated water that comes into contact with the skin, eyes, nose, throat, or mouth is how the infection in contracted.

The infection causes influenza-like symptoms such as fever, core throat, coughing, and fatigue. It can also cause serious liver and kidney problems, which is why it is important to seek treatment as soon as you are aware there is something wrong. This disease does not have to be fatal so long as preventative care and treatment are implemented.

Baylisascaris Infection (Roundworm)

Roundworm is a very unpleasant disease that is also commonly carried and spread by wild raccoons. The Baylisascaris eggs are laid in raccoon feces, and spread by consumption or contact. People and animals can unintentionally swallow these eggs in water or soil. Because of this, children who play outside and pets are higher at risk for roundworm infection. Symptoms include fatigue, loss of muscle control and coordination, dizziness, and at worse stages, coma or blindness. Although this infection is rare to contract, a large percentage of North American raccoons are carriers of this bacterium.

Indianapolis Raccoon Removal and Control You Can Trust

Call 317-535-4605 for Indianapolis raccoon removal and control services you can trust. We are DNR licensed and insured nuisance wildlife removal contractors who offer a wide range of raccoon removal and control services, including raccoon cleanup, raccoon proofing, minor restorations for raccoon damages, and more. Request a free estimate or emergency service, today.

Is it Against the Law to Keep a Pet Raccoon in Indiana?

Posted on March 26, 2020 by admin

The common domestic pets we are accustomed to seeing in a person’s house are typically dogs, cats, small breed reptiles, maybe a few hamsters here and there, or some goldfish. On the other hand, there are people in this world who like to step outside of the box by adopting an exotic pet in place of the stereotypical four-legged furry friend. This choice and alternative to pet ownership is perfectly fine, depending on the state you live in. Before you decide to adopt a pet raccoon as an Indiana resident, it is important to first learn the specific state laws and regulations surrounding exotic pet ownership.

Continue below to review the facts you need to know about pet raccoons in Indiana.

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State Regulations for Pet Raccoons

For many states, the short answer to the question, “Is it illegal to own a pet raccoon?” is “no.” However, in these states where exotic pet ownership of raccoons is permitted, there are usually several prerequisites and requirements that one must meet in order to adopt a pet raccoon. Common rules include obtaining specific documentation and licensing, such as a legal permit and state approval, as well as, pay annual fees.

Additionally, a state’s wildlife possession laws vary depending on the intended use of the animal. The state wants to know if a person intends to use the animal for commercial use or non-commercial use. This means, “Are you going to sell the raccoon, breed the raccoon and sell the kits, or keep it as a pet?” Different permits are required and assigned for the different intended uses of a raccoon. And these uses must be revealed and verified before permits are approved.

Furbearing Mammal Possession Laws

If a person’s intentions are merely non-commercial, they will need a Furbearing Mammal Breeder/Possession Permit. There are two classes for this permit: Class A, and Class B. For those who wish to keep protected wildlife for non-commercial use, they will need a Class A permit. For those who intend to use protected animals for commercial purposes, they will need a Class B permit. The fee for a Class A permit is only $10, and then $25 annually. Again, it is only intended for those who keep a raccoon solely as a pet. Class B permits are $20 and $25 annually. Class B allows a person to breed and sell protected wildlife. Keep in mind these are just averages, and fees vary from county to county and among individual states.

Another stipulation to Furbearing Mammal Possession Laws is that a person must purchase or obtain a pet raccoon from a licensed breeder only. They must file and receive their legal permit before purchasing or adopting a pet raccoon. People are not allowed to catch, trap, or take a wild raccoon from nature and keep it as a pet. They will not be approved for any exotic animal possession permits. It is strictly forbidden. A person must adopt a raccoon from a licensed raccoon breeder; and they must file and receive a legal permit before doing so. If these rules are not followed, then the law is being broken.

If You Find a Baby Raccoon

If you find an injured or baby raccoon in your yard, never attempt to touch it or pick it up. Unfortunately, wild animals such as raccoons can carry diseases that can be harmful to you and your pets. You never know what raccoon can be aggressive, scared, and potentially attack. One bite can pass on various contagious illnesses and diseases. If you ever find or have raccoons in your yard, immediately call a professional Indianapolis raccoon removal company.

Indianapolis Raccoon Removal and Control You Can Trust

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Top 3 Products for Humane Raccoon Abatement

Posted on November 25, 2019 by admin

If you are having problems with nuisance raccoons on your property, but hesitant to take action in fear of harming the animals or surrounding environment, this may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Continue reading to learn the top three products you can buy and use for safe, humane, and 100% non-lethal raccoon abatement.

Live Trap Cages

In the professional raccoon removal and control industry, the best practice is to always use safe and humane, non-lethal methods. Furthermore, it is important to always adhere to all local, state, and federal regulations that govern wildlife abatement. Live trap cages are one of the most common pieces of equipment approved by set laws, and utilized by professional companies when raccoon extraction and relocation is necessary. These traps come in all different shapes and sizes, and work by allowing a raccoon to enter, but not exit. Absolutely no harm is caused to the raccoon, and the cage itself protects the user from any raccoon contact.

Granular Animal Repellents

It is highly inhumane to use toxic chemicals or solutions to rid a property of raccoons. Not only is it harmful to the raccoons themselves, it is also dangerous to non-target animals and the surrounding environment. For these reasons, several manufacturers in the animal abatement industry have developed organic repellents as a humane and non-toxic alternative. Common ingredients include tastes and sensations that raccoons hate, such as black pepper, menthol, and capsaicin. These repellents come in granular form, and can be easily dispersed around the perimeter of a property. Common ingredients include tastes and sensations that raccoons hate, such as black pepper, menthol, and capsaicin.

Spray Animal Repellents

An addition to granular repellents, you also have the option of purchasing spray repellents. Scientifically developed and concocted based on the same principles of granular formulas, spray animal repellents work by thwarting raccoon activity in concentrated areas. You can also choose to make your own spray repellent by combining olive oil, water, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and red pepper together, and then applying it to the perimeter of your property. Just be sure to keep pets away from treated areas since the pepper can irritate their eyes and nose.

Trusted Indianapolis Raccoon Control

Call 317-535-4605 for Indianapolis raccoon removal and control you can trust. We are DNR licensed and insured nuisance wildlife removal contractors who offer a wide range of 24 hour raccoon removal and control services, including raccoon cleanup, raccoon proofing, minor restorations for raccoon damages, and more. Call 317-535-4605 to request a free estimate or emergency service, today.

Types of Raccoon Species Found Around the Globe

Posted on October 28, 2019 by admin

There are various types of raccoons in the world. Each species is similar to each other, but different in their special ways. The wild raccoon varies from region to region. Their surrounding environment, climate, and diet influence their unique and identifying qualities. Continue reading to learn about the interesting types of raccoon species found all around the world.

North America

The most common North American raccoon is called the Procyon Lotor. These colonies are found throughout Canada and the United States. Their appearance is what most people would consider the typical raccoon stereotype. They have a black mask-like stripe across their eyes and a striped bushy tail. Their coat can vary in color, from tones of gray to dark browns.

Adults weight an average of 25 to 30 pounds, and grow to a height of 30 to 36 inches. They have black beady eyes, long claws, and dexterous paws. They are excellent climbers that partake in a diet of fruits, berries, small invertebrates, and insects. This species is nocturnal, meaning they sleep during the day and stay active at night. For shelter, raccoons use hollow trees, dens, attics, and any other small available spaces they can find. This is why they can be considered a nuisance in residential and commercial neighborhoods.

Central and South America

There is a raccoon known in the central and south Americas called the Crab Eating Raccoon, or scientifically, Procyon Cancrivorus. It lives in marshes and jungles all throughout the region. They are recognized by their salt and pepper looking coats, speckled with hues of brown and gray . They usually eat aquatic insects, crabs, crayfish, and small fish; hence the name Crab Eating Raccoon.

Another interesting species of raccoon is the Guadeloupe Raccoon. These raccoon colonies are found in small numbers throughout the island of Guadeloupe in the Lesser Antilles. They are smaller than the average raccoon, with dark grey fur. They are an endangered species, and only found on this island. They live in the rain forests and often hunted by humans as food. Their diet consists of frogs, acorns, berries, crayfish, and other small invertebrates.

Raccoons are fascinating and intelligent animals to admire; however, if they are invading your property or home, it may be time to call a raccoon removal specialist.

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A Recent Citation Reminds Us Not to Make Raccoons Our Pets

Posted on September 17, 2019 by admin

Last month, a woman in Indiana was cited by police 29 times for owning 29 baby raccoons. Why did she get these citations? Continue reading to find out, including the lesson we can all take from this incident.

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Pet Raccoons are Illegal Without a Permit

Without the proper permits and licensing, owning a raccoon is illegal under state law. The Hoosier woman who was cited 29 times for owning 29 baby raccoons did not have any of the proper permits required by law for legal exotic pet domestication. Not only must individuals acquire a legal permit for exotic pet ownership, they must also stay on top of routine renewals, as such permits expire after a few years.

The woman in this case actually had an expired permit, as she was a retired wildlife rescue rehabilitation professional. But this incident shows us just how strict Indiana laws are on exotic and wild animal pet domestication. There are several reasons why these regulations are in place, but the top most important reasons are for animal protection and preservation, and for our own safety.

For this reason and more, wild animals, including raccoons, are not meant to be caged. Therefore, it is not advised to own one as a pet if proper care cannot be provided on a consistent basis. Animal sanctuaries, such as zoos and rehabilitation centers, are the only settings that are appropriate for wild animal domestication. Sadly, in this case of 29 citations, 10 raccoons had to be euthanized due to health issues, while the other 19 were relocated to a safe, faraway habitat.

Because raccoons are a Class II wild animal here in Indiana, a Class II permit is required. Indiana defines Class II wild animals as, “(…)a wild animal that, because of its nature, habits, or status, may pose a threat to human safety.” To learn more about exotic pet ownership permits, see the Indiana Administrative Code. Title 312. Natural Resources Commission. Article 9. Fish and Wildlife. Rule 11. Wild Animal Possession Permits, here.

If You Find a Baby Raccoon

Although a baby raccoon looks cute and cuddly, they are still wild animals. You must resist the urge to touch or move the raccoon. Instead, contact a local Indianapolis raccoon removal company for prompt and professional relocation services that will not harm the raccoon in any way. While waiting for professional services, keep all people and pets away from the vicinity of the raccoon. It could be ill or carry a disease, so keep your distance as well.