“Why Don’t You Leave The Animals Alone?” Raccoon Mother and Baby Spotted

“Why Don’t You Leave The Animals Alone?”

The following post is in response to concerns raised about why we don’t just leave the animals alone. While I fully understand the concerns surrounding why we choose to remove the animals, I would like to take this opportunity to present our position.

In the province Ontario, the wildlife removal industry is not licensed and therefore anyone can start a wildlife control company with little or no training. We currently have approximately 90 competitors in our service area that have varying degrees of practical experience. Unfortunately most companies gain their training through trial and error. As result, the animals being controlled are either intentionally or unintentionally being exposed to inhumane practices. To name just a few examples, wildlife are locked into attics to starve to death, mother animals are relocated away from their dependent babies and barbaric methods and devices are being used.

It is for these reasons that each time we are presented with the opportunity to be hired to remove wildlife, we are motivated to get that job because we know we will do everything within our power to ensure that the animals are treated humanely and the family unit will stay intact. Very few of our competitors hold the lives of the animals to this high standard.

There are certain situations when we will attempt to convince our customers to delay the removal process until conditions are more ideal. While most homeowners are concerned about continued damage, sleep deprivation and family safety there are some that are willing to wait.

Wildlife control is a profession and a field of study. It requires a great breadth of knowledge and extensive experience to truly master and understand. If you need convincing of this consider the variety of species, their unique biology / behaviours and the complexity of situations in which wildlife comes in conflict with human interests. 

As a socially responsible company I welcome all comments and concerns regarding our company’s policies and procedures. We consider ourselves a progressive organization that is continuously learning and all input from our followers is a valuable resource that we are extremely fortunate to have.  

By Brad Gates, B.Sc.

Brad Gates is the owner and president of AAA Gates Wildlife Control. He has over 35 years experience in the humane wildlife removal and prevention industry.