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OAKVILLE BEAVER Saturday, April 18, 2009 · 10 Keeping wildlife in the wild D iscouraging wildlife from living on your property can be challenging. Removing wildlife from your home (chimney, attics, garages, etc.) is best left to professionals. Not all wildlife removal companies are the same. Removal practices are not strictly monitored, leaving the decision to choose a company with a client. "Most humane societies, SPCAs and Animal Control Centres do not offer wildlife removal services," said Heather White, Community outreach and education manager at the Oakville and District Humane Society. "Removing an animal from a home and then making sure another one does not get into the house requires special equipment and expertise." There are a few guidelines to help you choose a wildlife removal company. First and foremost, make sure they listen to your problem and offer an individualized plan of action and price, before you are asked to make a commitment. Every situation with wildlife is slightly different. Make sure you are able to ask questions and feel comfortable with the answers. Long-term solutions are critical to successfully keeping out wildlife that has found a way to access your home. A company that focuses on long-term solutions, such as fixing all potential entry points is a sign of a company thinking about your long-term satisfaction. A one-year guarantee of their work is another indicator. The company representative should be knowledgeable about wildlife behaviours, such as when babies will likely be present for each species and potential access points around your home. A visual inspection of the site should occur, to identify the presence of babies. If willing to remove babies, ask about their record for reunit- ing parents with their young. Companies that live-trap animals offer a humane solution. Ensure the company is available and willing to return at any time to remove the trap. Be wary of a company that indicates they `relocate' livetrapped animals, as this is illegal and harmful to the animal. A "release on site" policy for any denning animals that are live trapped and the securing of the entry points following the removal are essential. As spring arrives, baby racoons, squirrels, skunks and birds will become mobile and could cause significant damage to your home. If you have wildlife living in your roof, attic, chimney or walls, choose a removal company that's use of removal and exclusion techniques will ensure wildlife will remain safe and find a new shelter. Remember the best way to avoid finding yourself in this situation is to make sure you wildlife proof your home and yard. For more information, contact the 905-845-1551 or visit the shelter at 445 Cornwall Rd. The Oakville & District Humane Society presents: YOUR POOL IS OUR REPUTATION Take advantage of the Government rebate offering 15% rebate up to a maximum Where a minimum donation of $50 could make a big difference in a cat's life. Come prepared to take your new family member home! of $1,350 *applicable to new pool installs and /or exsisting pool renovations Friday April 24th to Friday May 1st 445 Cornwall Road, Oakville, 905-845-1551 www.oakvillehumane.ca RECEIVE A FREE SALT GENERATOR Adopt-a-thon Extended Hours: Monday to Friday -11am to 8 pm Saturday and Sunday -11am to 5 pm www.uniquepools.ca 905-304-4774 or 1-866-929-4774 Every Adoption Includes: A microchip, current vaccines, de-worming treatment, flea treatment, a cat collar with cat tags, and 6 weeks of free Pet Insurance! BOOK NOW SAVE NOW! Microchip Clinic: Saturday, April 26 from 11-5 Bring your pets down to the shelter to be microchipped for only $29.95