Skunks, Raccoons, and Opossums...oh my!

Dear Marie:

Lately, I have been finding small holes dug out in my front yard, combined with what appears to be animal droppings in the damaged area.  I have not seen any animals in the yard, but I am reasonably certain that some small animal is responsible for the holes.  I live in a part of the city that is surrounded by busy streets and buildings.  Therefore, I cannot imagine a wild animal being in this area, other than a gopher or a rat; but I did not think they created this type of damage.  Can you advise me about what this animal might be and what I can do to discourage its “activities”

in my yard?

Puzzled in Orange

Dear Puzzled:

The “yard problem” you are experiencing is not at all uncommon.   In fact, many Orange County residents, especially those with lush lawns, have described similar difficulties with local wildlife. 

You are also not alone in mistakenly believing that wild animals, other than the small mammals you mentioned, live far away from the hustle and bustle of urban communities.  But in actuality, our cities are teaming with wildlife, from coyotes, to snakes, to skunks.  The latter is a potential suspect for the holes in your lawn.

Skunks, along with opossums and raccoons, will scout out neighborhoods in search of thick lawns and the moist soil underneath.  These very intelligent and adaptable animals are searching for the small grub worms and other insects that live at or under the root level of the grass or other ground cover you may have.  Normally, they make coin sized holes about an inch or two deep.  The holes can be spaced relatively close together, or far apart, depending on what the animals find. 

The solution is relatively simple.  Eliminate the food source.  Natural, non-toxic pesticides may be used throughout your yard to kill the insects in the soil.  Talk to nursery staff to find out what product would meet your needs. 

After using the pesticide, it might take a few days to notice the effects.  Since the animals realize there is no more food available at your home, they will move on.  Remember, you must continue lawn and garden pest control from this point forward, otherwise a new family of “diggers” will begin the cycle again. 

Unfortunately, many homeowners in your predicament will resort to trapping the opportunistic animals.  I have heard stories from some disheartened residents who have paid private trappers upwards of $100.00 for each animal trapped on their property, and they still have nuisance animals roaming about after the final bill has been paid.

The reason for this is simple.  Animals seek out homes with ample food, water, and shelter.  If the animal is removed but the environment remains the same, an attractive niche is available to any other animal that discovers it.  In most cases, other animals are aware of the occupied niche and are more than ready to move in if the current resident animal suddenly “disappears.”

It is important to note that insects may not be the only food source an animal might be interested in.  Pet food left outside, accessible trash, fallen fruit, and homegrown vegetables also provide skunks and other animals with the sustenance they require.  If all unnatural food sources contained in residential areas are eliminated, wildlife “problems” are greatly reduced.   Sometimes, this takes a neighborhood effort.  Be creative...invite your neighbors over to discuss skunks!  You’ll be surprised at the terrific brainstorming that can take place by working together.   Good Luck!

Swallows are a little early this year....

Dear Marie,

I don’t live anywhere close to San Juan Capistrano, but for some reason, swallows have invaded my neighborhood.  I have at least a dozen nests under my eaves and so do most of my neighbors.  The birds are noisy, aggressive, very messy and I just don’t want them around.  I can’t even park my car in my own driveway because of the bird droppings.  I don’t want to hurt the swallows;  I just think they belong in a more wild setting.  What can I do?

Steven, Lake Forest

Dear Steven:

Usually, from March to June, many California  residents experience the same problems you have described. So your little guys are "early-birds!" During the late winter, Cliff Swallows, migrate northward from South America—where they pass the cold-weather-months—and some actually travel all the way up to Northern California.  San Juan Capistrano is famous for the swallows, that is true, but every city on their migratory path is subject to nesting colonies. 

Cliff swallows provide us with a wonderful, non-toxic pest control service.  They keep mosquitoes and other flying insect populations  in check.  If it wasn’t for the swallows, and other migratory birds, we would have far more serious problems to complain about.

Cliff swallows build gourd-shaped nests out of mud.  Any vertical surface that meets an overhang is ideal for nest building activities.  Before there were  man-made structures in the swallows’ migratory path, nest sites consisted of cliffs and canyon walls.  However, in the present day, homes and office buildings introduce ideal surfaces for the durable mud nests and are irresistible to site seeking swallows. 

It takes up to two weeks for a pair of swallows to complete their nest.  They each travel up to a half mile in search of mud to complete their home.  The pair will make more than a thousand trips to the mud source to gather enough building material.  It is no easy task.  If you have children, this is a wonderful opportunity for them to observe some of the magic of nature.  Nest-building activities are truly awesome.

When the nest is nearly completed, the female will begin to lay her eggs.  On average, a female swallow will lay one egg a day for three to four days, usually in late April or May. (Obviously, in your situation, this whole time frame has moved up dramatically!)  Both male and female will sit on the eggs until they hatch in just over two weeks.  

Let me assure you, the nuisances you are experiencing are strictly temporary.  A month after the babies hatch, the whole family will disappear.  May I suggest parking your car in a different spot for the time being.  Hose down any messy areas on the ground each evening, when the birds are less likely to “dive bomb.”  Determine what the comfort zone is for the parents and give them their space.  If you choose not to, (at your own "risk!") defensive behaviors on the part of the birds are normal and should be expected. 

Swallows—as well as all migratory birds—are protected under Federal Law.  It is strictly prohibited to remove their nests once they have been constructed.  Fines of several hundred dollars PER NEST REMOVED can be imposed by U.S. Fish and Wildlife authorities on any individual who violates this code.  However, once the nest is abandoned, they may be hosed down.

Swallows and their offspring return to the same nesting location year after year.  If you do not want swallows returning next year, I suggest using an exclusionary control method to discourage nest building under your eaves.  The simplest method is to attach nylon netting around the perimeter of your house from the eaves to the wall during nesting season.  This eliminates a suitable surface for the swallows to attach their nests.

Be patient...enjoy your guests.  You’ll miss them when they’re gone!

Traveling with a Pet in the Hot Summer - Not a Good Idea!

Dear  Marie:

I’m planning a family summer vacation that includes our dog.  We’re going to be driving to the Grand Canyon and sight seeing along the way.  We will be tent camping and the total length of the trip will be two weeks.  Can you suggest some tips that will make this trip enjoyable for our pet? 

Jolene

Huntington Beach

Dear Jolene:

First of all, I’d like to try and talk you out of taking your dog.  Your summer vacation to the Grand Canyon will be both uncomfortable, and potentially dangerous for your pet.  Summer-time temperatures out in your destination area are well over 100 degrees.  I am sure you are aware that heat, dogs, and cars don’t mix.  For example, if you leave your pet in your vehicle while you get a “quick” bite to eat at a highway diner, the temperature inside your car will sore to an unbearable high in just a matter of minutes; even with the windows partially rolled down, your pet will succumb to heat stroke before you finish your ice-cold drink and a burger in the air-conditioned building.   All too often, pets are killed in situations just like this. 

Secondly, your pet may become confused if taken away from his home environment.  His only security will be his family.  But, you’ll be out walking the “no dogs allowed” trails of the Grand Canyon, and he will have to stay behind in camp.  Often, pets escape and run away in an attempt to find home.  The chances of him being located again are not incredibly good.  Even if he is wearing an I.D. tag or has a microchip, there are miles and miles of open space and he would be—almost certain—un-findable. 

Open space brings up another important issue...wild animals.  Coyotes, mountain lions, and other predators are indigenous to the Grand Canyon area.  A domestic dog would certainly be looked on as prey by these animals.  Furthermore, rattlesnakes are prevalent.  A curious dog could easily fall victim to a poisonous viper and veterinary help would be hard to come by, especially the immediate, emergency form of veterinary care required for this type of injury.

Hopefully, I’ve discouraged you.  Generally, I support travelling with a pet during cooler times of the year, and to more temperate locations that are pet-friendly.  The Grand Canyon is NOT one of those locations. 

So now you need to know what to do with your pet while you’re gone.  Ask a neighbor or a family member to care for him.  If you can’t think of anyone offhand, there are a number of pet-sitting services that will provide wonderful care for your little guy while you are vacationing.  Furthermore, pet-sitters will take care of your house, and plants, and a number of other chores that need to be tended to.

Another option—though not the most desirable—is boarding your pet.  Your veterinarian may have facilities, or you may choose a licensed boarding kennel.  However, if you choose this option, your pet will suffer both the separation anxiety of losing his family AND his familiar home surroundings.  I’d go with the home care!

Your pet WILL miss you while you are away.  But unlike you, he doesn’t really have a sense of time. Chances are, the hours you spend away while you are at work elicit the same emotional response he will experience while you are away on your trip.  Nevertheless, if he is allowed to remain at home, he will know that you are coming back and will be faithfully waiting to smother you with doggie kisses when you return.

Adopting a Pet Bunny

Dear  Marie:

My thirteen year old daughter has been begging me since her last birthday to have a pet rabbit.  I've been trying to encourage her to consider a dog or a cat.  I don’t know anything about rabbits, and I've heard so many stories about people who have adopted one or two, only to have them die within the first year or two.  My daughter assures me that she will take care of it, but I’m sure she doesn't know the first thing about rabbit care either.  Should I go ahead and get a rabbit for her anyway?

Elizabeth, Los Alamitos

Dear Elizabeth:

Before you adopt any pet, it is always necessary to research and prepare.  All pets, no matter what kind, are huge responsibilities.  Make sure your daughter understands that animals are living, breathing, feeling beings - not toys - that must be fed, cleaned up after, loved and cared for...each and every day, for years!  Is she ready to take on that responsibility?  As her mother, you know best. 

Spend a day at the library.  Check out books on rabbits and their care.   Find out what veterinarians in your area provide bunny-care.  When you’ve found one you like, find out the costs associated with preventative veterinary care.  Your pet rabbit should be spayed or neutered to help it live a long healthy life and to prevent some bad habits such as marking territory.  Will you be paying for these procedures or will your daughter have to earn her own money to pay.  Again, this is something you should discuss before adopting. 

After you've made the big step and brought a bunny home, please make it a house pet.  So many people adopt rabbits and send them to a life in a lonely hutch out in the back yard or along the side of a house.  Rabbits love affection and to be with their family.  They make excellent indoor pets.  Most people don’t realize this because all they have ever seen are rabbits in cages.  A caged animal never has the opportunity to grow, emotionally, and develop its full personality. 

There are some precautions to take with a house rabbit.  First, make sure that all electrical cords are out of reach or covered.  Rabbits like to chew.  If they gnaw on a power cord, it can be deadly.  Provide your rabbit with chew toys and other distractions to keep him from chewing furniture, rugs and other items.  You may want to make a special bunny room that you isolate with the same special gates used to keep toddlers in safe areas of the house.  The bunny room should be checked for all possible hazards and bunny-proofed.

You will also want to house-train your new pet.  Believe it or not, rabbits can be taught to use a litter box.  There are a number of different methods for accomplishing this task.  You might consider checking out the House Rabbit Society website at  http://rabbit.org/ for detailed information on this topic and many other indoor bunny issues. 

Dog Won't Eat

Dear  Marie:

I just inherited my mother’s 9 year old poodle, “Misty”.  My mother moved into a senior citizens’ apartment facility and they have a strict no-pets rule.  “Misty” was very pampered by my mother and is having a difficult time adjusting to her new surroundings.  My biggest concern is that she refuses to eat.  I have tried just about everything to get her to take in food.  I kneel down next to her and pet her by her bowl.  I try to hand feed her.  I even pretend to eat the food myself to show her how good it is.  Nothing is working.  What should I do?

Angela, Fullerton

Dear Angela,

Misty is a lucky dog to have been taken in by an individual as caring as you.  She had a loving home with your mother, and is obviously going through serious separation anxiety at this point in time.  Her new surroundings are also a very nerve wracking change in her life and this combination of stress has understandably led to her loss of appetite.  However, with your love and encouragement, this will pass.

There are a few things that you should do to make this transition easier.  First, give Misty a quiet, private area in your home with her own bed.  She will need an area that is not subject to frequent disrupting activities; so make sure this is not a child’s bedroom or the corner of a busy family room.  Misty will use this area frequently at first, but as time goes on, she will feel more and more comfortable participating in family activities throughout the house. 

Next, pick out a secluded feeding area.  Dogs have a natural fear of competition for food.  They need to eat where they know they can finish a meal safely.  You should also know that your presence, no matter how benign you feel your presence is, creates a certain amount of fear or discomfort when it is associated with feeding time.  Go into another room while Misty is eating.  Let her know that she is alone so that she can dine comfortably. 

Establish a feeding schedule and stick to it.  Dogs need routines in their lives.  It makes them feel more secure, and at this point, security is the main issue for Misty.  Usually, a twice a day feeding schedule is best.  Furthermore, until Misty becomes a good eater, refrain from tasty in-between meal snacks.  As with children, this will spoil her appetite!

To re-enforce the feeding schedule, remove Misty’s food dish twenty minutes after putting it down.  Your pet will quickly learn that she is fed once in the morning and once in the evening and that if she doesn’t eat, there will be no more opportunities until the next scheduled feeding time.  If she misses one or two meals before she figures out the routine, she will be fine.  However, if she still refuses to eat, try mixing her food with 1/4 cup chicken broth.   Reduce the amount of broth each day until you no longer need it. 

If after taking these steps Misty is still not eating well, she should be seen by a veterinarian.  She may have a medical problem that is completely unrelated to the stress of coming into a new home.   Your veterinarian will be able to determine if this is the case.

Iguanas and Babies

Dear Marie,

My son recently purchased two large iguanas.  He lives in Yorba Linda with his wife and their two-year-old son.  I am very worried about my grandson because these things are awfully big and seem very dangerous.  Isn’t there a law against owning animals like this?  I may be over-reacting, but I am very concerned for my grandson’s safety.

Anna, Brea

Dear Anna:

I understand your concern for your grandson.  Reptilian pets are often misunderstood and considered hazardous.  However, if they were hand raised and are used to regular human interaction, they are most likely very docile and pretty fun pets.  Conversely, if they have had little human contact, they can inflict serious injuries with their claws, teeth, and tail, which is used like a whip. 

There are no laws regulating ownership of iguanas.  These reptiles, in fact, are very popular.  Unfortunately, many prospective owners do not do their homework prior to adopting these amazing animals.  As with any pet, it is extremely important to find out basic information regarding maintenance, behavior, health, and other important factors.  Without acquiring this familiarity prior to adoption, disaster is sure to follow, if not for the owner, than certainly for the pet.  

I was very concerned to read that your son introduced iguanas into a home with a two-year-old.  My worry is not for your grandchild being clawed or whipped by a frightened iguana, but rather for him being infected by a bacteria called Salmonella.  This bacteria is frequently present in the intestines of many reptiles.  It is shed in their stools and therefore is present in their living quarters and on their bodies.  In many cases, Salmonella does not adversely affect the infected reptiles.  However, sometimes the animals do get sick.  Signs of illness would include weight loss, lethargy, diarrhea, and unwillingness to eat.  Animals showing these or any other symptoms of poor health should be taken to a veterinarian immediately.

If humans are infected, similar symptoms may be expected.  In children under two years of age, the infection may be very serious...sometimes, death from salmonella infection can occur.  And with toddlers, as you know, everything goes in their mouths and they have no concept of hand washing or hygiene.  Therefore, this potential problem cannot be taken lightly.

There are a number of safety steps your son must follow without fail.  First, anyone who handles the iguanas, maintains/cleans their cage, or feeds them, must immediately wash his or her hands when finished.  The iguanas must never run loose in the house.  They can shed the bacteria on the floor (where baby will be crawling) which allows for the spread of salmonella.  Iguanas must be excluded from the kitchen and all other areas where food may be prepared or served.  Avoid the temptation of letting them swim in the bathroom sink or tub.  Give them their own tub in their own designated space.  Finally, have your son take the iguanas to a veterinarian for a health exam and advise him to keep up with regular vet checks. 

If your son follows these safety guidelines, he probably will not have any trouble.  

Dog Barks at Opossum on Fence

Dear  Marie:

At about the same time every night, my dog starts barking wildly at something that crawls across my fence.  I’m not exactly sure what it is and I am worried about diseases it may carry and pass along to my dog.  This thing is about the size of a cat; but looks like a giant rat.  At the very least, it is creating a huge nuisance when it makes my dog bark and I am concerned that the neighbors will complain.  How can I get rid of this animal?

Mai,

Garden Grove

Dear Mai:

Your nightly visitor is an opossum, not a rat.  Opossums are marsupials, (like kangaroos) and they live in every city of Orange County.  They are harmless little creatures and are actually quite beneficial to have as neighbors.  They keep our gardens free of snails, slugs, and other soft-bodied pests that do damage to vegetation.  Here in Orange County, opossums are rather healthy and have a very low likelihood of carrying or spreading diseases to pets or people.  Opossums have also been known to kill mice and rats—animals that DO carry diseases and create problems for human populations. 

Opossums serve as nature’s clean-up crew and go about their business during the wee hours of the morning when most of us are sound asleep.  Complaints regarding opossums arise from situations exactly like yours.  Your dog is outside at night and therefore is easily awakened by other animals.   He does what comes naturally when he sees a small animal in his yard...he barks!

There are a number of very simple remedies to this problem.  The first, and the easiest, is to let your dog sleep in the house with you.  That’s what dogs prefer and it is really the best thing for your owner/pet relationship.  After all, pets are supposed to be our companions.  You wouldn’t make your best human friend sleep out in the back yard!   If you’ve never allowed your dog this special treatment before and you have reservations about his behavior, try it anyway.  It will take a little patience, adjustment, and getting used to; but in time, everything will work out.

If you absolutely insist that your dog can’t be in the house, at least put him in the garage at night.  He’ll need a soft, warm bed in a corner of the garage farthest away from your back yard.  Chances are, he’ll be so comfy and insulated in that location, that he won’t notice when the opossum makes his nightly pass across the fence.

In addition to bringing your dog in at night, there are some environmental modifications that you can try on your yard.  First, cut back any tree or shrub branches that extend to the top of your fence.  Opossums use these as ladders to navigate up and down.  You can also place “road blocks” at various points along your fence line.  Try fastening (with brackets) fence bricks, wood blocks, or metal strips (depending on the depth of your fence) perpendicular to the top of the fence, at ten to twenty foot intervals.  This creates a difficult walking path that an opossum will not like.  He’ll find another “road” to take elsewhere.

Finally, make sure you do not have any food sources in your yard that may be serving as an attractant, such as ripened or fallen fruit, pet food left in bowls outside, trash stored in plastic bags or open containers, etc. 

If you follow this advice, the nuisance you are currently experiencing will be eliminated.