By Joe Rodweller
Well, we out here had a hectic few weeks but I think it’s beginning to get back to a somewhat normal schedule, I hope. I’ll go over a few things in this article that I think should again be addressed. Raccoons and stray cats, it’s winter and both of these along with some other not so popular critters, have found their cozy place to get in out of the cold. Others have not and they are in a brave stage (for lack of a better word) because they will push the issue when it comes to them and your house, barn or garage and you, when you don’t want them there.
The two main contenders are raccoons and cats. Next in line are the skunks, squirrels and bats. It would not be too bad if they didn’t all go hand in hand with filth and disease, but that’s what it’s all about. Some are also a fire hazard when they build their nests and chew on electric wires.
When it comes to controlling them, all the lines between domestic and wildlife become blurred and the problem becomes both Animal Control and Game Warden. Our game wardens take care of all issues with wild animals, which include raccoons, skunks and squirrels and anything else that lives out in the wild. Animal Control takes care of all domestic animals, which include dogs, cats, horses, cattle and basically anything that is raised by us at our farm or in our home. The issue becomes blurred when a raccoon, skunk or maybe a bat is in or trying to enter your home or other space and you cannot control it.
Maybe you believe that by its actions or looks that it may have rabies or maybe it will not let you come out your door. If you think it has rabies then it would also become a health issue and it then requires that Animal Control also help. They are trained to handle animals, which may have the rabies virus. There are not so many game wardens out there, but there is one animal control officer for each town and they are ready, willing and able to assist you in all your animal control issues. They are trained and certified by the State of Maine just for these problems. And they are paid by you to assist you in all your animal control needs no matter what or how minor they may be. So, the next time you might have an issue or maybe you’re just not too sure, just ask the A.C.O. in your town for help, they will. They also carry identification with them, stating they are certified as an A.C.O. so you can feel assured they are who they say they are in care you’re worried in this day and age about home invasions and your safety.
There is one thing I must make clear, and that is that only an animal control officer, game warden or other law enforcement person can respond and take care of your animal issues, no one else can, not even a town manager, simply because they are not trained or covered. This information has been received from the M. M. A. and the Maine Underwriters Insurance. I have to list this because there have been a few issues with my articles about authentication of licensed and qualified authority.
A few tidbits of information on raccoons. They are a member of the bear family and they act somewhat the same as a bear when threatened and are very strong for their size. Being out in the daylight may be an indication of a health issue (possible rabies). Just because you use your fireplace does not mean the raccoon will not climb down it to gain entry to your home. Your children are more susceptible to the diseases carried by them, more than you are. They will eliminate your pets quickly and easily and still look loveable and cute. If you can deny warmth and food for them then you’re winning more than half the battle. If you’re having or think you’re having problems dealing with them, give us a call. Thanks again for reading.
Joe Rodweller of Linneus, a certified animal control officer and member of the Maine Animal Control Association, operates Maine Animal Control with his wife Debbie. He can be reached at 538-1347 or via e-mail at debjoe347@yahoo.com.
