Country Living, Dog Doors, and the Occasional Uninvited Guest

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I live in the country. We have multiple dog doors. So every once in a while, a small critter lets itself in. 🤣

I've spent decades in the pet industry caring for the well-being of just about every species, from reptiles and birds to small companion animals. Now I'm a spiritual introvert with a pack of rescue dogs, one high-maintenance Maltese, and one cat. And yes, I care about the little visitors too.

My pick

Motel Mouse Humane Live Catch Mouse Traps, 4 Pack on Amazon

I've bought my old VENSMILE traps multiple times, but they're currently unavailable. This is the same idea: a little tunnel with air holes and a door that closes behind the critter, plus a cleaning brush. I put it out with peanut butter in the end, and within hours or sooner, it's in there. Then I take it up into the woods and let it go. These things work fast, they don't hurt anyone.

The honest part: cleaning up the peanut butter sucks big time. Some reviewers say mice chew the little plastic latch, some had one break after first use, and they can be hard to take apart to clean.

And the CDC says don't. The CDC advises against live traps, because they can scare rodents into urinating, which raises your chance of getting sick. It recommends snap traps. (CDC) My take? They're not clean, but how clean is a freaking trap that kills them? That doesn't make any sense to me.

Less mess with the peanut butter

• Use a pea-sized dab, not a scoop. The CDC says a small amount of bait is plenty. (CDC)
• Victor, a pest-control company, suggests putting the bait in with a Q-tip or toothpick. (Victor)
• One I want to try: put the dab on a little square of paper or foil so it lifts right out. (Untested, so no promises.)

Doing it kindly

• Check it often. Animal-welfare experts say to check traps at least every 12 hours. Don't set it if you'll be away. (Science for Animal Welfare)
• Distance is debated. Victor says to release at least two miles away so mice don't come back. Welfare scientists warn that mice moved far from home often struggle to survive. Wherever you release, pick a spot with cover. (Victor; Science for Animal Welfare)
• Gloves on, hands washed. The CDC warns that trapped rodents can urinate and spread germs, so handle the trap carefully. (CDC)
• Check your local rules. Some areas don't allow releasing wildlife. (Victor)

Vet note: I'm not a vet, and this isn't vet advice. If your pet tangles with a critter or gets bitten, call your vet.