I can't find a number for Animal Control, for fuck's sake. I almost called the police, but they couldn't get into my attic, either - cops don't carry ladders around in their squad cars.

Fuck, I'm so nervous about this, I'm almost sick. The cats are freaking out, too. What if it is a person? What if it's an animal and it breaks through and falls onto the floor?

Why isn't there a "I'm Freaking Out, What Do I Do?" hotline?

It is not an octopus. Octopuses are quieter and require water.

Possums can't climb. It could be a raccoon, or a really big squirrel. Or a crazy human.

I WANT A BOYFRIEND.

I would call the non-emergency line for the police.

It's not a person. A person would not climb through your attic. Deep breaths.

Possums can't climb.

They can't? I'm guessing raccoon or squirrel.

Having heard the "Squirrel Cop" episode of This American Life about a dozen times, though, I'm not sure you want to call the police.

It's just a critter, Zen. Nothing harmful, I'm sure. Just noisy.

prob racoon or squirrel trying to burrow in the insulation up there. vector control handles such things around here but they are only during business hours. you can try calling police but they won't do more than look in the attic and ascertain it isn't a burglar, then give you the number for vector control (or animal control, or whoever handles wild animals in your area) and leave. if you could use that reassurance, go for it.

Zenkitty, try calling the police non-emergency number. The last time I needed to contact animal control, while the number was listed in the phone book, when I called it, there was a voice message instructing to call the local police non-emergency number, and if they deem it appropriate, the police then contact animal control officers. Of course, it may not be the procedure for your area, but if not, at least one hopes that whoever answers the phone will be able to steer you in the right direction.

What a wonderful gift, all the way around, Andi.

Those parents get called so often about unpleasant things - illnesses, money situations, behavioral problems - that I think it only fair to call about good things too.

is the attic finished? Is there any way a person could get in aside from through the house? Most attics have chimneys and vents and things a critter can find a way through if they are cold and determined.

bonny, I'm glad you got a satisfactory response from the owner of the grooming shop.

Whew. I called police non-emergency, and they sent the Fire Department. Three big strong men, bless them, ascertained that the noise was loose shingles banging around. They were surprised by how loud it was, too, so I'm not just a crazy woman.

Thank you all for the support! I nearly had myself convinced I was about to be attacked by ceiling-digging giant rabid raccoons.