10/19/2026
Gates Wildlife’s story began with a childhood fascination that became my life’s work.
As a young boy, I spent countless hours exploring the woods behind our home, learning about my wild neighbours. My parents encouraged that curiosity, even when it meant sharing our home with the animals I cared for.
One raccoon named Mandy would leave a lasting impression.
Mandy came into my care after a wildlife removal company separated her from her mother. Raising her helped me understand how deeply young animals depend on their moms. Her story became a driving force behind my determination to develop a more humane approach to wildlife removal.
In 1984, with a loan from my parents, I purchased a used truck and some equipment and founded Gates Wildlife Control.
My goal was simple: help homeowners resolve wildlife problems while treating the animals with compassion and keeping families together.
That commitment led me to invent the one-way-door and heated reunion box. Today, cellular cameras allow us to follow reunions after we leave, observe mothers retrieving their babies and continue improving our methods.
After 42 years, I’m still learning. The animals have a way of making sure of that.
As Gates has grown, education has become a significant part of our work. Through our social channels, news coverage and documentaries, we’ve been able to bring people closer to wildlife and show why humane treatment matters.
Our Earth Rangers partnership, features on The Dodo and Dodo Kids, and our website’s Kids Zone help bring those lessons to younger audiences. That part means a great deal to me. I remember being the child who wanted to learn everything he could about animals.
What began with a used truck has grown into a family business supported by a dedicated team and a community that cares. I’m proud of what we’ve built together, and grateful to our customers and everyone who watches, shares and follows along.
Swipe through to see how it all began, and how we continue to move forward.
- Brad Gates Owner / President
