What to Do If You Have an Animal Pest

It can be quite unnerving to discover that your house has been invaded by unwelcome animal pests. It is not uncommon to have animals try to take shelter in unwanted places, especially during the colder months of the year. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to isolate, remove and prevent future pest infestations. 

Survey the damage

• Hungry animals can be especially destructive in their determination to find food. Check around baseboards for small openings and holes that may allow rodents to enter. Rodents have the ability to chew through almost anything and can fit through spaces as small as a dime. The presence of animal droppings in the area can tell confirm your suspicions as to what type of animal and how many animals you may be dealing with.  

Removing the animal pest

• Rodent pests can be trapped using traditional spring loaded traps. Glue traps, or no-kill traps that allow the animal to be relocated unharmed to another area are other popular options for removing rodents. 


• If the infestation is extensive, it may be best to find professional a professional exterminator. 

Cleanup

• Repair openings in walls by stuffing any holes with steel wool and then covering the hole with spackle.


• Spray down any areas that may have come in contact with animal droppings with a solution of 1 parts household bleach to 10 parts water.


• Deter future pests by placing food storage items up high out and of reach of animal pests. You may also want to consider repackaging foods in metal or thick plastic containers to protect against pests in the future.