Nuisance Wildlife
The City has reinstated animal trapping services for residents. Each household may receive up to two animal trappings per calendar year at no charge. Any additional trappings will be the homeowner’s responsibility and must be paid directly to the trapper.
Complimentary trappings must be scheduled through the Service Department by calling 440.953.4111. Appointments will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Homeowners will be required to sign paperwork before service is provided.
Additional Information:
- The Lake County General Health District does not assist with the removal of nuisance animals from homes or yards.
- Nuisance animals are typically healthy but may be living in close association with humans and homes.
Report Animal Bites and Scratches
If a wild animal, stray domestic animal, or pet has bitten or scratched a human or another animal, please report the incident to the Health District. Such encounters may require investigation for potential rabies exposure.
- If the wild animal is available, it should be humanely destroyed and kept cool for rabies testing.
- Efforts should also be made to identify and safely contain any stray domestic animal involved in the incident.
Bats In Home
If a bat is found in your home or has had contact with a person or pet, contact the Health District immediately. Do not release the bat outdoors without consulting the Health District first.
If you capture a bat, take care not to damage its brain to ensure proper testing if needed.
Rats Near Property
If you have concerns about rats in or around your property, please refer to this guide.
Collecting Sick or Strange-Acting Animals for Rabies Surveillance
- If you encounter a dead or strange-acting animal that may need rabies testing:
- Do not shoot the animal in the head—damage to the brain will prevent accurate testing.
- Use gloves and shovels to handle the animal safely, avoiding direct contact. Ensure the animal is relatively fresh, with an intact head and no maggots.
- Bag the animal and place it in an obvious location for pickup.
Contact for Pickup
- Weekday (8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.): Call the Health District at (440) 350-2543 for pickup as soon as possible.
- After Hours and Weekends: Call the answering service at (440) 974-5009 for emergency assistance.
The Health District can also train staff on personal protection techniques for handling wild animal calls.