Wild and Domestic Animals in a Disaster

Be cautious of wild or stray animals. They may be disoriented and dangerous following a hurricane or flood. Try to confine the animal without getting at risk of being bitten. Call the Fairfax County Animal Service Division Dispatch 703-830-1100 - Option 3.

Wild and domestic animals may escape or be killed in disasters. Escaped animals may wander onto land where they could:

· contaminate water supplies
· cause a build-up of manure
· overgraze sensitive ecosystems
· cause damage to crops

Decaying carcasses create biologic waste and attract flies and rodents, which can spread disease. They may also contaminate groundwater and cause bad odors.

Animal carcasses should be disposed of as soon as possible to avoid creating a health hazard to animals or humans.

Do not handle carcasses with your bare hands. Small dead animals may be placed in dumpsters or buried three feet in the ground.

For additional information on disposal guidance, contact the Fairfax County Animal Services Division Dispatch.