Small animals like rats, mice, squirrels, frogs, and bats may end up dead in residential pools, and it is nothing to worry about. These animals do not pose a health hazard, but if you happen to come across a raccoon, you will need to act fast.
Raccoons are known for carrying infections that can spread through pool water. If you spot a dead raccoon, call Animal Control without hesitation.
In other cases, chlorine in a well-maintained pool can kill germs they may carry. Follow these steps:
- Close the pool and wear disposable gloves.
- Remove the dead animal using a net, and double bag it in garbage bags.
- Thoroughly clean your hands.
- Look over your pool to make sure that the pH is at 7.5 or less, free chlorine levels at 2 ppm, and maintain the temperature at 77°F (25°C) or higher for the next 30 minutes.
- Check if the filtration system is functioning correctly and disinfect the net you used.