Wasp Control for Oakwood Park Restaurants, Pubs and Commercial Premises

Animals do not understand a nest and may chase or snap at wasps, so pet businesses need to keep both the animals and the people safe.

Animals and wasps

Dogs snap at insects, cats pounce on them, small animals panic. A wasp nest near a grooming salon, a kennel run or a pet shop doorway therefore puts animals as well as staff in danger. A sting to a dog’s mouth or face can be painful and alarming, and the owner will be understandably upset.

If an animal is stung, contact a vet for advice. This article does not give animal medical advice.

Pet shops and groomers have another issue: the pets themselves are often carried or led in through the front door. A wasp at the door when an owner arrives with a nervous dog can turn a calm drop-off into a struggle.

Cats in a boarding cattery, small animals in a pet shop and birds in an aviary are also vulnerable. They cannot move away, and an insect that enters a cage can cause distress. Check mesh and netting for gaps that a wasp could pass.

Where nests turn up around animal premises

Yards, runs and outbuildings give wasps many places to nest. Check:

• roof edges and soffits of kennel blocks and cabins
• stored bedding, bales and bags of feed
• fence posts, gates and hedge boundaries
• compost and waste areas
• holes in banks and lawns, including exercise paddocks
• dog walking paths and outdoor play areas

Look from a distance at a warm time of day. A stream of wasps to one spot is a nest.

Bags of dry food and bedding stored outside are not so attractive to wasps, but wet food, treats and sweet-smelling shampoos can be. Keep them in sealed containers and store them away from outer walls.

Straw, hay and shavings stacked against a wall offer shelter and should be checked before they are moved.

Keeping animals away

Move animals away from the nest area. Close off the run, stop using the paddock and walk dogs via a different route. Keep animals on leads near the affected area and tell owners who drop off or collect pets.

Do not allow animals to investigate the nest or chase wasps. Staff should not swat. A calm approach reduces the risk of an animal being stung.

Feed and water bowls, particularly if they contain anything sweet, should be kept indoors or covered when wasps are about. Treats, wet food and bedding that smells of food all draw wasps.

Bring animals in through a different door if you can. Where a dog has to pass the nest area, a lead and a firm hold are essential. A wasp that lands on a dog should be left alone if possible. Chasing it increases the risk of a sting.

Grooming salons are warm and have noisy dryers, which can drown the buzz of wasps. Check windows and vents for activity before starting work, and keep doors closed during busy sessions.

Owners and staff

Pet owners are often anxious. A clear notice at the door, explaining that a nest has been found and is being dealt with, helps. Offer a different entrance if needed. Tell staff, volunteers and dog walkers where it is, and ask them to keep clear.

If anyone on the team is allergic to stings, keep them away from the area and tell the office when you book so that the visit can be prioritised. For a sting to a person, wash the area, remove the sting if visible and apply a cold pack. A 999 call is needed for a widespread rash, dizziness, wheezing or difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips or throat.

If you board animals, tell owners who are due to collect. A short call explaining which door to use prevents surprises.

Staff who travel with animals in vehicles should be reminded to keep windows closed near the nest and to check vehicles before loading animals.

Volunteers who help on occasional days should be briefed in the same way as paid staff.

Booking

Wasp Nest Removal Essex treats wasp nests only; it does not treat other pests. It works at homes and commercial premises, is fully insured, open seven days a week and offers same-day service. The set price per nest is £90 and that includes one visit guaranteed. Any additional nest at the same property costs £35 extra.

To get a quote or book, call 01245 327274 or send a request through the online booking form on the contact page. Say that you have animals on site, where the nest is and how the technician can reach it. Mention any dogs or other animals that may be loose or in the yard, so that they can be kept secure during the visit.

The technician may need to enter a yard or run, so make sure animals are secured in advance. Tell the office about gates, locks and any animals that might be loose.

Spring checks

Wasps begin nests in late April, depending on the weather, and are at their peak in August. A pet business in Oakwood Park, like any other, can check the roof edges, sheds and yard in spring. Store bedding, bales and feed off the ground and away from walls, with enough space to look behind them.

If you see insects that look like bees rather than wasps, contact a local beekeeper or the relevant bee organisation. The technician treats wasps only.

If you employ dog walkers or volunteers who are out and about, ask them to report nests they come across on routes. They often see parts of the area that you do not, and the information may help neighbours too.

Keep your first aid kit stocked for people and make sure you have your vet’s number to hand for animals.

Frequently asked questions

More wasp advice for Oakwood Park