Pet & Wild Animal Rescue

Heating & Plumbing Structures Attract Animals

All of us have heard some kind of horror story about a wild animal getting inside someone’s home or an unfortunate mishap of a pet getting stuck in a vent. In the plumbing and HVAC industry, both stories unfold more often than you would expect. Let’s discuss some preventative measures and solutions. 

If your pet has gone missing, you should check your air ducts first! Cats have been found dead in them on numerous occasions by our technicians performing HVAC maintenance. Animals find their way inside but struggle to find their way out. They may also venture into your plumbing system from outside, it is important to seek professional assistance to retrieve them if you hear one whimpering or scratching for help. 

Outdoor critters that are most commonly bound to surprise a homeowner as it finds its way into their bathroom or kitchen through their plumbing system are: squirrels, rats, frogs and snakes. I know, nobody wanted to hear that! They are typically seeking food or warmth, which can be the reason they enter a specific area. 

Our technicians have cameras to do a deep dive if there are signs you have an existing problem but let’s discuss some preventative measures: 

• Seal any gaps or cracks around your furnace or ductwork 
• Install screens or grates as a physical barrier but small enough to keep dust & debris out 
• Place flue and vent covers over fresh-air intakes, exhaust vents, and pipes 
• Maintain regular HVAC and plumbing inspections to find any potential issues 
• Clean your ducts to remove rodent droppings, nesting materials, and other allergens 
• Keep vents dry so water buildup and mold cannot attract pests 
• Keep food, including pet treats, in airtight containers to contain odors that attract wildlife 
• Add some wire mesh to seal off exit/entry points for plumbing system without blocking drainage capabilities 

If you have concerns or suspect this may be a current or future problem at your home, go ahead and give us a call! We will send an expert to check out your plumbing and/or HVAC system entry/exit points with a comprehensive inspection. 

Written by: Faith Malloy