LGL - Animal Extermination With Antifreeze

As of March 2023, Michigan DNR law prohibits the knowing or reckless killing, torturing, mutilation, maiming, disfigurement, or poisoning of an animal. This is regardless of the animal's classification and the use of these methods is only authorized by the health department in extreme situations causing a health and safety risk to other animals and humans. 

In the past, antifreeze has been commonly used in neighborhoods to eliminate raccoons and rodents, because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to obtain. It is effective because they are quickly attracted to the sweet smell and taste. It is considered a poison that's use is also a danger to children and small family pets who are also easily drawn to the smell and taste.

Once antifreeze has been ingested by an animal, their kidneys begin to shut down, and they experience a slow, painful, and cruel death (over a period of 24-48 hours). It is an inhumane way to treat any animal. From a property management perspective, it can also potentially die in a location that will not be discovered until it begins decomposing, contaminating the area, and creating a strong distinctly unpleasant odor that is difficult to get rid of. 

Nuisance Animals are not protected from being exterminated in Michigan when they are potentially destructive to property, providing it is done humanely. Since traditional hunting is forbidden in our community, we can have them removed by a professional (experienced in trapping them and licensed to either relocate or dispose of them). A more initiative-taking approach would be to deter them from wanting to enter and stay in the community.