How do you find a dead animal in the wall?

We use a combination of experience, smell, and technology. We often use thermal imaging cameras to detect the heat signature of decomposition or moisture meters to find fluids. In some cases, we may drill small inspection holes to use a borescope camera. We aim to make the smallest possible cut to remove the animal.

Will the smell go away after removal?

Yes, but it may take a little time. Once the source (the carcass) is removed, we clean and disinfect the area to remove fluids and bacteria. We then apply professional-grade odor neutralizers and may use an ozone generator or air scrubber to clear the remaining scent from the air.

Do you repair the drywall after cutting it?

We can perform minor drywall patching to seal the hole we created. For larger cuts or textured finishes, we may recommend a professional painter or drywall specialist for a perfect cosmetic match, but we ensure the wall is sealed and safe before we leave.

Dead Animal Removal & Disposal Services

Professional dead animal location, removal, and odor elimination throughout Louisville and surrounding areas.

Dead Animal Removal: Quick Facts

Service Includes

Location, Removal, Deodorization

Locations

Walls, Attics, Crawl Spaces, Yards

Odor Control

Professional Enzymatic Treatments

Response Time

Same-Day Service Available

Professional Dead Animal Removal

Dead animals in walls, crawl spaces, or attics create terrible odors and attract secondary pests. Our technicians locate and safely remove deceased wildlife, then decontaminate affected areas to eliminate odors and health hazards. We use specialized equipment and techniques to find animals in the most difficult locations.

Decomposition Timeline

Understanding the stages of decomposition helps identify how long an animal has been dead and what to expect regarding odor.

Time Since Death	Odor Intensity	Signs & Activity
24-48 Hours	Mild / Sweet	Bloating begins; flies may appear.
3-5 Days	Strong / Pungent	Active decay; fluids may leak; heavy fly activity.
1-2 Weeks	Severe / Unbearable	Peak odor; maggots present; staining on drywall.
3+ Weeks	Fading / Musty	Drying out; beetle activity; lingering smell.

Common Questions About Dead Animal Removal

Common Dead Animal Locations

Inside Walls

Rodents and small animals often die inside wall voids after consuming poison or becoming trapped. Requires cutting access holes for removal.

Attic Spaces

Animals may die in attic insulation, behind stored items, or in hard-to-reach corners. Odors travel through HVAC systems.

Crawl Spaces

Dark, confined crawl spaces are common death locations. Odors rise through floor vents into living areas.

HVAC Ducts

Small animals sometimes enter ductwork and become trapped. Running HVAC spreads odors throughout the home.

Our Dead Animal Removal Process

1.
Odor Source Location:
Use thermal imaging, moisture meters, and inspection cameras to pinpoint the exact location of deceased animals.
2.
Safe Access:
Create access points if necessary (walls, ceilings) using minimally invasive techniques to reach the animal.
3.
Removal & Disposal:
Remove deceased animal using proper safety equipment and dispose of remains following health regulations.
4.
Decontamination:
Clean and disinfect the area where the animal was located, removing all biological material.
5.
Odor Elimination:
Apply professional-grade odor neutralizers and sealants to eliminate persistent smells.
6.
Repair & Restoration:
Repair any access holes created during removal, matching existing finishes.

Signs of Dead Animals

⚠
Strong, Persistent Odor:
Unmistakable smell of decay that worsens over several days, then gradually fades over 2-3 weeks.
⚠
Flies & Insects:
Sudden appearance of flies, especially blow flies and flesh flies, concentrated in specific areas.
⚠
Stains on Walls/Ceilings:
Brown or yellow stains from decomposition fluids seeping through drywall or ceiling materials.
⚠
Pet Behavior:
Dogs and cats showing unusual interest in specific walls, floors, or areas of the home.

Professional Odor Elimination

Simply removing the dead animal doesn't eliminate odors. We use multiple techniques:

✓
Enzymatic Cleaners:
Break down organic matter at the molecular level, eliminating odor sources rather than masking them.
✓
Odor Sealants:
Seal porous surfaces that have absorbed decomposition odors, preventing continued smell release.
✓
Ozone Treatment:
Use ozone generators to oxidize odor molecules in enclosed spaces (when safe and appropriate).
✓
Air Scrubbing:
HEPA filtration and activated carbon filters to remove airborne odor particles.

Why Professional Removal is Essential

• Health Hazards: Decomposing animals spread bacteria, parasites, and attract disease-carrying insects
• Difficult Location: Animals often die in inaccessible areas requiring specialized equipment to reach
• Proper Disposal: Legal requirements for disposing of wildlife remains and contaminated materials
• Complete Odor Removal: Professional treatments eliminate odors that DIY methods can't address

Common Animals We Remove

Small Animals

• Mice & Rats
• Squirrels
• Bats
• Birds

Medium Animals

• Raccoons
• Opossums
• Skunks
• Groundhogs

Other Wildlife

• Snakes
• Cats (feral)
• Any wildlife

Dead Animal Odor in Your Home?

Don't wait for the smell to worsen. We'll locate and remove the source quickly.

Call 502-754-3025 Now