From a distance, raccoons and skunks look cute, but up close and personal, wildlife can be very dangerous to humans and pets. Momma raccoons are highly protective of their young and will attack your dog if he gets too close to the nest. Skunks are also skittish and will spray their scent on a dog when they are threatened. Wildlife used to be a bigger problem in rural areas, but you may now find raccoons in your urban or suburban backyard. Learn how to keep raccoons away from your home to keep your pets safe.

Feed Your Pets Inside

Wildlife will look for easy food sources, so keep your pet’s food and water bowls inside. If you must leave food outside, don’t leave it overnight to prevent wildlife from thinking they can enjoy the buffet when you’re sleeping. Raccoons are nocturnal creatures. They’re more apt to forage at night when pets aren’t outside. As they get used to getting an easy dinner, you may end up feeding more of their family. Just provide food for your pets inside where you know who is eating it.  

Don’t Feed or Interact With the Raccoon or Skunk

Raccoons and other wildlife that become accustomed to people are less likely to be scared off. If you or someone else tries to chase a raccoon away, that raccoon is more likely to attack than to be chased away. Leave wildlife alone and don’t try to make friends. Raccoons and other wildlife can carry rabies and diseases. Their feces and urine can be hazardous. You don’t need to make friends with wildlife. Enjoy these animals from a distance.

Keep Pets Inside at Night

Wildlife is more likely to come into your yard after dusk through dawn. To keep pets from getting attacked, keep your pets inside at night. When you do need to let them out, hold them back while you open the door and turn on a light. For extra convenience, use a motion sensor light that can scare away wildlife when you aren’t around. It might take a few extra minutes, but it’s better than trying to find an emergency vet when you’re ready for bed.

Make Sure Garbage is Secured Properly

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Your garbage bin is a treasure trove for wildlife. They’ll rummage through your trash bags to get the smallest morsels of food. Secure the lids to your garbage bins to keep wildlife out of your trash. Find a way to cover your recycling bin or keep your recyclables clean to avoid wildlife from messing with those items. Don’t forget to protect your compost pile and garden. If you have fruit trees in your yard, pick up any fruit that drops to the ground. Don’t make it easy for wildlife to find food near your home.

Make Sure Raccoons or Skunks Can’t Enter Your Home Through Pet Doors

Pet doors are convenient, but unwelcome animals can get through that opening. It’s not only raccoons that may be a problem. Stray cats and opossums are other animals that can fit through your doggy door. It might just be the neighbour’s cat or it could be a feral cat that will attack you. Lock the door at night and when you aren’t home. Alternatively, install a pet door that only opens when it gets a signal from an electronic collar on your pet.

If you need raccoon removal in Victoria, contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. Getting rid of skunks and raccoons isn’t a DIY process. Call in professionals who know how to deal with wildlife to keep your family and pets safe.