Rodent Trapping Information

1. Remove Pet Food:

Pet food is the #1 culprit in attracting rodents. Ensure that food is only left out long enough for your pet to eat, and always take it up at night. Rodents will often stash pet food in hidden places, making the problem worse. If your pet encounters a rodent, safely remove them from the area—rodents can carry diseases like rat bite fever, and even large pets can get bitten.

2. Keep Doors and Windows Closed:

During the trapping process, it’s crucial to keep all exterior doors and windows closed—this includes garage and patio doors. Once we’ve blocked the rodents’ original entry points, rats will actively search for new ways in. Closing doors and windows will help us ensure the trapping process is as effective as possible.

3. Store Food Safely:

Rodents chew through plastic easily, so it’s important to store food in metal or glass containers. Common items like vitamins, supplements, syrup, cooking oil, and coffee supplies are frequent targets. Safe places to store food include the stove, fridge, microwave, and upper cabinets. Plastic trash cans are not rodent-proof—only metal cans should be used.

4. Avoid “Test” Food:

Do not leave out “test” food to see if the rodents are gone. It will only delay the trapping process and may lead to additional infestations.

5. Cleanliness is Key:

The cleaner your space, the better the trapping results. Avoid leaving dishes in the sink, crumbs on tables, or snacks near beds. If rodents have been inside, we recommend decontaminating food prep and personal care areas. Ask us about our cleanup and decontamination services for both homes and attics to help ensure your space is completely safe.

6. No Food in Bed:

Never let your child go to sleep with food or crumbs in bed or on their clothes. This is one of the most common causes of rodent bites.

7. Put Away Candy Dishes:

Rats are particularly attracted to chocolate and candy. To avoid attracting them, always put candy dishes away when they are not in use.

8. Flush the Garbage Disposal:

Rodents will climb into garbage disposals looking for scraps. Be sure to flush it out after every use to eliminate any food sources.

9. Handling Rodent Feces:

When cleaning rodent feces, if it’s a small amount, wear a respirator and nitrile gloves. Use a damp paper towel to clean it up. Do not use a vacuum, as it will spread feces particles, dander, and hair into the air. For larger cleanups, it’s best to hire a professional like us, who have the necessary training and equipment to safely handle the situation. If you’re concerned about health risks from rodent droppings, don’t hesitate to contact us or your healthcare provider.

10. Found a Rodent in a Safe Box?

If you find a rodent inside a safe box, you can leave the entire box outside your front or side door. We will retrieve it during the next scheduled trap check. Please do not throw the safe box away, as they are reusable, though the internal trap will not be reused once it catches a rodent. A $20 fee will apply for any missing or damaged safe boxes.

11. Rodents in the Garage?

If you have rodents in your garage, park your vehicle outside while we perform trapping. Rats can chew on wires and hoses, causing significant damage. Be sure to remove or secure any food items, such as birdseed, fertilizer, or surplus pantry goods, stored in the garage.