Handling Dead Animals: Safety Procedures and Council Responsibilities

Overview of Council's Role in Dead Animal Removal

UK Councils are responsible for removing dead animals from public spaces, adhering to specific conditions regarding the animal's size and species.

Removal of Domestic Animals

Dead dogs and cats found in public areas are handled with care. The council attempts to identify the owners through microchip scanning. The disposal of unchipped animals falls under the council's jurisdiction. Note: The council does not remove dead animals from private residences.

Scope of Animal Removal by Councils

• Roadkill Involvement: Specific animals like Dogs, Goats, Cattle, Horses, Pigs, and Sheep are prioritized due to the Road Traffic Act.
• Wildlife: Larger wild animals such as Foxes, Badgers, and Deer are typically removed by the council.
• Each case is evaluated individually.

Best Practices for Dead Animal Collection

For professionals tasked with dead animal collection, adherence to local rules and health guidelines is imperative.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Usage

Using appropriate PPE is essential for safe handling and minimizing infection risks.

Disinfection and Hygiene

Post-removal, the area should be disinfected to eliminate infection risks and odours.

Special Cases: Animals in Private Properties

Decomposition in enclosed spaces like homes or businesses poses unique challenges, such as odour detection, maggots, and heightened infection risks.

Factors Affecting Decomposition

Body decomposition varies based on factors including the animal's size, environmental conditions, and insect activity.