Safe-Home.com

Questions about the safety and advantages of using electric fence chargers or fence energizers

Answer: My knowledge of electric fencing is very limited.

I turned to the Fi-Shock web page where I found a whole list of questions and answers about this subject. The following is taken from their website. All credit is given to that website.

"Q: What is the benefit of electric fencing vs. barbed or woven wire?

A: An electric fence system is a positive alternative to barbed or woven wire for two reasons. First, it is easy to install and maintain while also costing less than barbed or woven wire fencing. Second, it is a safer alternative because animals are trained to stay away from the electric fence and in the case that an animal does lean against the fence, it will not be harmed or push the fence over. With an electric fence, there are also fewer edges and points that may cut the animal and cause harm.

Q: Is electric fencing safe for the animals I am containing?

A: Electric fencing is a safe alternative because animals are trained to stay away from the fence and in the case that an animal does lean against the fence, it will not be harmed or push the fence over.There are also far fewer edges and points that may cut the animal and cause harm.

Q: Will energized fencing interfere with my power lines or phone lines in the ground?

A: They should not cause a problem to power or phone lines. To insure that there is not a problem make sure to locate the grounding system for the fence energizer at least 50 feet away from the grounding system for the phone or underground phone or power lines.

Q: Does energized fencing cost more than conventional fencing?

A: The most costly piece of any fence is the posts. In barbed and woven wire posts need to be set every 12-15 feet; however in High-Tensile fencing posts can be set 30-50 feet apart, which automatically lowers the cost of the fence. Here are some typical costs for various type of fencing options: (cost estimates per foot) Barbed Wire Cost: $.84 per foot Woven Wire Cost: $1.07 per foot High-tensile Cost: $.57 per foot Conventional electric Fence Cost: $.08 per foot

Q: Is there a benefit of using a certain voltage over another when getting an energizer or charger? A: Voltage is the measure of electrical force in a circuit to push the current down a long length of wire. Generally, the higher the output voltage the longer the fence line that can be effectively loaded. Q: Can electric fencing be used to keep certain animals out of an area?

A: Electric fencing can be used for both containing an animal while also deterring predators or nuisance animals from specific areas. Animals will receive a small shock every time they come in contact with the fence no matter which side of the fence they are on.

Q: Do you have fencing systems for horses?

A: Yes, in fact Fi-Shock offers a complete assortment of products for equine fences. By offering a wide array of polytape, polyrope and polywire as well as insulators and energizers, the equine offering is a safer and effective alternative to keep your horses contained.

Q: Will it hurt my children/my pets?

A: NO, electric fencing is the safest form of agricultural fencing. Even though voltages are high, current (Amps) is very low and is generally intermittent or pulsed. Amps are the dangerous part of an electrical charge."

Our thanks to F-Shock for supplying such complete information about electric fencing and energizers. And thank you for your question. Do choose your energizer according to what kind of animal you want to keep in or out.

Examples:

• FI-Shock Havahart Pet Battery Powered Fence Energizer is pet containment or exclusion for dogs, raccoons, skunks, possums, etc. Or use the Fi-Shock Economy Pet Deterrent Electric Fence Kit which includes an energizer and 100 ft of aluminum wire plus the accessories.
• Small Animal Containment such as Sheep, Goats, etc
• FI-SHOCK 20 Mile AC Fence Charger works well to keep larger animals contained or excluded when you have electrical power available. Use for Pigs, Cattle, Horses, Deer, Elk, Etc.

Please visit our website to see the variety of electric, battery powered and solar powered fencers, fence wire and accessories that we sell.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Question about using a Mandarin Hanging Squirrel Baffle-Green or a Brome 1024 Squirrel Buster Plus Wild Bird Feeder or a Brome Squirrel Buster Feeder CLASSIC Birdfeeder to keep the squirrels out of the bird seed.

Answer: Squirrels are a nuisance to some and a pleasure to others. For example, we sell squirrel feeders such as the Adirondack Chair Squirrel Feeder, Green that holds an ear of corn and the Duet Diner Squirrel Feeder which holds an ear of corn in the middle of a picnic type table! You can even buy a feeder that holds peanuts like the Heritage Farms Squirrel Feeder - Diner 2

If your goal is to keep the squirrels out of your birdfeeder as opposed to attracting them elsewhere, there are the options of baffles that cover the top of the feeder and feeders such as the Brome ones and others where the feeding ports for the birds are covered when the squirrel climbs onto the feeder. Remember that there is always some bird seed scattered on the ground below feeders and that attracts regular squirrels, chipmunks and other hungry pest animals, that is if you consider tham pests!

To choose a baffle, look for either one that pole mount like the Liberty Universal Squirrel Stopper Baffle which fits a pole and moves up and down and side to side to keep squirrels off or a more traditional looking baffle like the Heath - Squirrel Baffle Make sure you measure the diameter of the pole before you purchase to make sure the baffle will fit it. Also remember that squirrels are great at jumping from trees, roofs, etc. For example, we currently sell a pole mount baffle that fits a 4 inch by 4 inch square post, the Woodlink Audubon - Green 20 in. 4x4 Mount Baffle

Birdfeeders that are not squirrel resistant are hung from baffles such as the Arundale Hummer Hat Squirrel Baffle in Red which is also widely used to keep pigeons off hummingbird feeders. The Woodlink - 16 in Clear Hang/Mount Weather Shield/Sq Baffle is a larger clear one that also protects the bird feeder from the weather.

The easier route, especially if your feeders need replacing anyway, is to go to a Squirrel Proof feeder such as the Brome 1024 Squirrel Buster Plus Wild Bird Feeder or a Brome Squirrel Buster Feeder CLASSIC Birdfeeder One unique feeder is the Hiatt Manufacturing Grande Squirrel Proofwhich has the seed tube within a cage that has a locking system to keep the squirrels from opening the lid to get at the food. The Perky-Pet Fortress Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder also uses the squirrel weight to close off the feeding ports.

If you are into high tech and can afford it, the Squirrel Boss Bird Feeder is solar powered and shocks the squirrel who dares to attempt to steal seed from it. And you get to push the remote and deliver the static charge!

So the bottom lines are 1. do you want to keep your current feeder? 2 Is your feeder mounted on a pole or hanging from a tree? or 3. do you want a replacement feeder with squirrel proofing? #4 might be do you want to feed the squirrels somewhere away from the bird feeder in the hope that a full stomach might keep them out of the seed?

If you need help, please write or phone us. Go to our website to see the many options you have.

Thanks again for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about Critter Ridder Animal Repellent

Answer:

Havahart® Critter Ridder® animal repellent contains the scent and taste deterrent ingredients of oil of black pepper, piperine and capsaicin. These active ingredients irritate animals when they touch or taste the product. This patented, effective animal repellent is both OMRI (Organic Material Review Institute )listed and compliant for use in organic gardening. Effectively repels skunks, groundhogs, dogs, cats, squirrels and raccoons from treated areas for up to 30 days. The competition requires more frequent application.

The Critter Ridder® animal repellent granular shaker canister is perfect for perimeter protection. Sprinkle your lawn, garden path and flower bed or spot-treat ground around other problem areas such as garbage bags, ornamental plants, trees or shrubs. It can also be used indoors – ideal for use in potted plants and non-living areas such as basements, cellars, storage areas, sheds and barns.

CritterRidder Sizes:

• CritterRidder 2.2 lb. ShakerProtects about 100 square feet.
• Critter Ridder 1.25 lb. Granular FormulaProtects against animal intruders for up to about 75 square feet.
• Havahart CritterRidder 8 ounce Concentrate Lets you spray a perimeter barrier. Dilutes to cover up to 640 square feet.
• Critter Ridder Granules for protection of up to 200 square feet

As noted above, this is also for indoor use to keep animals out of potted plants, repel animals from barns and sheds or to keep raccoons and squirrels out of attics!

Thanks for your question.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about Havahart cage traps to catch nuisance animals like raccoons,

Answer:The main differences among the Havahart traps are the physical size, the number of doors and whether the cage collapses. So base your choice on size of the animal, your comfort with one or two door release systems and storage space.

These are the main types of live catch traps by Havahart, a Woodstream Company

• Havahart 2-Door Spring Loaded Raccoon Cage Trap Model 1045. This has two doors so you can release the animal/animals without worrying about being attacked through the door opening. It measures 32 inches long.
• Havahart 42 Inch Long Large Raccoon Trap.Model 1050 is longer, two spring loaded doors and comes assembled.
• Havahart One-Door Groundhog & Raccoon Trap Model 1079. This has only one door, comes assembled and measures 32 inches long.
• Havahart Easy Set Raccoon Live Cage Trap Model 1085 is marketed as easiest to set and easiest to release as far as letting the wild animal go free.Lever is ideally positioned for releasing animal - stand behind trap to open trap door and set animal free.
• Havahart Large Collapsible Easy Set Raccoon Trap Model 1092 One handed set – One handed release and collapses for easy storage.

Any of these live catch traps would work. The last two traps are easy set-easy reliease. Choose according to price and size of the animal. If it is a really large raccoon get the 42 inch trap.

The best baits for raccoons are

◊ Fish, fresh or canned
◊ Honey or sugar covered vegetables
◊ Smoked fish
◊ Watermelon
◊ Sweet corn
◊ Cooked fatty meat
◊ Crisp bacon
◊ Marshmallows are a favorite!

Good luck! Thanks for your question.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Question about the Fi-Shock Economy Pet Deterrent Electric Fence Kit

Question: "I am calling because I have a problem with the neighborhood cats. As many as 5 or 6 at a time come into my yard, dig up the flower beds and use the yard as their litter box. These are not feral cats but ones that the owners let run loose. Public services were cut back here due to the economy. Animal control tells me it is my problem. Please tell me how this works. I have tried the organic repellents you spread on the ground but these have to be re-applied regularly due to the rain." Thanks, Debbie

Answer:  In Coralville, IA, the laws are that cats are not allowed to run loose. (One of our cats was actually from a litter born under our house in April 2010. We didn't know they were there until a neighbor told us. Animal control got the Mom and my Jack socialized the kittens and found them homes.) In our city, animal control comes and sets traps.

This electric fence is a deterrent for dogs, raccoons, possums and other animals that are not jumpers. As we talked, I learned that you have never owned a cat. This low voltage fence plugs into a standard outlet, works continuously, and can protect up to about 100 linear feet of area. The problem is that cats can easily jump over a fence. In fact, our Siamese cat once jumped 9 feet from a standing position and landed on the top of a cupboard. And the cats easily jump over the tall expandable dog gates we use to keep the dogs out of the living room and dining room. Our two cats are de-clawed house cats and never run loose outside.

The options I suggest are:

1. Get cat traps from the animal control officer or your local humane society. Trap the cats and take them to the shelter. Tuna fish works well. Then the owners have to deal with paying to get their animals back and perhaps will keep them indoors.
2. Buy your own stray cat trap like this one from Havahart. Catch and take them to the shelter
3. OR some better ideas, i.e. electronic repellers that are battery operated and/or AC operated.

These products emit ultrasounds that cats do not like. (The Yardgard has multiple adjustments; the Koolatron repeller is set only for cats and dogs. ) Set up two of them up in your backyard where you say the cats go and keep the cats out without trapping them. (Of course then they are your other neighbors' problems. You can just send them along to Safe Home Products just as our customers do when they use mole chaser stakes and drive the moles next door!)

First, the Yardgard. This Yardgard has settings to deter about any animal and birds, too. Run it on AC or use the battery mode. With cats, I recommend the AC, continuous on, mode rather than the motion activated mode as cats are swift running. Mount it at the cats' head level. With the yard you have, two is definitely the lower limit of units you need. These units last for years and years without maintenance. Just make sure they are not in standing water. If you should have a squirrel problem in your attic, rats in attic, garage or crawl space, a deer problem, etc, you can adjust this unit to handle those animal pests as well.

Best results: Mount at animal's head level.  Low (sonic) settings may be audible to humans with good high frequency hearing. If this occurs, select a higher frequency. Note: Birds may be repelled by some frequencies of the Yardgard depending upon the height at which it is mounted.

Yard Guard Technical specifications:

• Dimensions: 6.75" x 5.25" x 3.5"
• Weight: 1 pound (shipping weight 2 pounds)
• Coverage: 4,000 sq. ft. (278.7 sq. meters)
• Frequency range: 15,000 - 25,000 Hz (adjustable)
• Sound pressure: 90 dB at 3 feet
• Electricity costs: Less than $0.25 per month
• Working current: <200 mA
• Power: 4 "C" batteries or AC adapter (included).
• Weather proof.
• Motion sensor activation: 35 x 70 feet
• Pattern: Oval pattern of sound is about 50 ft. wide at the widest and extends about 80 feet out. The lower the sound frequency, the wider the coverage.
• Dial positions: Dogs and cats, skunks, opossums, armadillos, raccoons, deer, insects, rodents and bats.
• In CONT AC ONLY mode: Continuous operation using AC power.
• Power Light: Red light behind clear lens activates when motion sensor is activated. Note: if left on continuous one, this red power light is on continuously.
• Compliance: EPA establishment No. 058480-TWN-001. CE marked.
• YardGard includes: Mountable plastic unit, 110vAC power adapter (with 6 ft cord), and extension wire cord (63 ft).
• Continuous or motion-sensor modes.
• Multiple sonic and ultrasonic settings.
• 6 month limited manufacturer's warranty.
• Outdoor use recommended. Use indoors only in rarely occupied areas.

Second, the Catstop. The Catstop is made especially to keep cats away. We also sell a 120VAC adapter for the Catstop so you don't have to be concerned about a dead battery. (With the traffic you've had in your yard, the adapter would be a good idea.) The unit includes a 50 ft cord.

CatStop Highlights:

• Ultra sound based concept: Safe, effective cat pest control without chemicals, visually objectionable barriers or shock.
• Infrared detection range: 80 degrees across a 20 ft distance in front of the device.
• Passive ultrasonic detector: Operates unattended. Activates when movement is detected.
• Operates 24/7: CatStop protects day and night for up to 6 months (or 4900+ activations) on one 9 volt battery.
• Silently creates a temporary sound 'barrier': Works where fences are not allowed or are impractical. Keeps neighborhood cats from violating your space without drawing attention to your efforts.
• Simple Installation: Easily extend coverage with additional CatStops.
• Power supply: 9V battery (not included).
• Output: 124 dB.
• Sensor warm up time = 40-60 seconds when battery is first inserted.When you activate the unit, the red light will come on for 3 seconds, and then turn off.  It takes approximately 8 seconds for it to re-charge between activation
• Operational time when activated = 3 seconds.
• Delay between activations: about 8 seconds.
• Output frequency: sweeping from 21-25 kHz.
• Fully water resistant.
• 2 year warranty from manufacturer

A third option is the Koolatron Outdoor Cat and Dog Repeller with AC Adapter As the Catstop, this Koolatron Repeller has ultrasonic frequencies that bother but do not harm cats. This unit also works for dogs.

Cat and Dog Repeller Features :

• Built-in focusing cone: Focuses sound for greater effective distance.
• Passive Infra Red (PIR) motion sensor: located behind the front frosted white housing.
• Test button: ultrasonic function is confirmed when button pushed as sound is lowered to an audible level.
• Compact unobtrusive design: green color
• Durable ABS housing: shock proof, can withstand harsh outdoor weather conditions.
• Waterproof to IPX4 standard: international standard that means the Lentek Cat and Dog Repeller is protected against damage from the elements.
• Perfect for yards, gardens, flowerbeds, near garbage, etc.,
• Swivel motion mounting bracket: allows easy and quick range direction changes.
• Wall Mounting Bracket: Adjustable angle allows for 180 degree direction adjustment.
  

Cat and Dog Repeller Specifications :

• Advanced ultrasonic sirens:
  • Ultrasonic sound: 80 to 115dB
  • Frequency sweep: 18 kHz to 24 kHz
  • Duration of ultrasonic bursts: 5 seconds.
• Cone range: 70 degree cone range for primary ultrasonic coverage area.
• Distance range: Up to 85 feet.
• Power on LED lights: confirms unit is active and on when lit.
• Wall mount bracket: install on wall or any vertical surface with two long screws (included). Attach unit connector to mounted bracket using bolt and nut provided.
• Power: Two (2) 9V batteries (not included)
• Battery life: approximately 2000 sound releases.
• Optional AC adapter: included. Adapter must be kept in a dry location if used as main power supply. Use only outdoor rated extension cords that accept the Cat and Dog Repeller plug. Keep all cords away from heat, oil and sharp edges. Always keep the connection between the ultrasonic repeller and the extension cord dry. Unplug before cleaning the animal repeller.
• Caution: Use outdoors only. Do not place near human ears or use in confined spaces or allow use by children.
• Warranty: 1 Year manufacturer warranty.
• Manufacturer: Lentek, Division of Koolatron

Our customers have had great success with all the electronic devices. It is rare to have a return IF the units are installed correctly and in sufficient quantity. Remember that ultrasound is more like light than audible sound: best results are line-of-sight, ultrasounc stops at hard objects and can bounce back and is absorbed by soft objects like bushes and flowers.

Good luck and thanks for your inquiry.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Questions about the Victor mouse traps,Victor Woodstream Electronic MOUSE Trap M252, Victor TIN CAT Live Catch Humane Mouse Trap and Victor Electronic Humane Kill Mouse Trap M250 PRO and the Woodstream Victor Multi-Kill Electronic Mousetrap M260.

Q; "I am confused about the differences between these units. I have a mouse problem both in my basement/house and in an outbuilding where I store bird seed and apples. Can you please explain the differences? I do not want a single catch trap that I have to empty or throw out such as the spring traps. Thanks. Tom."

Answer: First, remember the TIN Cat trap is a live catch trap. That means you have to regularly empty it out. I frankly think this is akin to the ground squirrel problem my friend had a few years ago. She would trap them, drive them three miles into the country and swears they beat her back to the house. It depends, of course, as to whether you believe that wild mice are like the white mice my brother had as a child, i.e. pets.

The differences among the others are:

The M252:

• Capacity: one mouse
• Kill in 10 seconds using high voltage electrical charge.
• Green indicator light blinks for 7 days to signal that a mouse has been caught. Just open the lid and dispose of the dead mouse.
• Safe to use around pets and children.
• Humane kill : meets International Humane Kill standards.
• Built in safety feature: unit deactivates if top door is accidentally opened.
• Unique tunnel: prevents mouse escape and decreases risk of shock to humans.
• Uses 4 AA batteries (not included). A set of batteries exterminates about 50 mice.
• Blinking red low battery indicator light.
• Unit size: 6" x 3" x 1.75"

The M250 Pro:

• A tunnel design:traps mice inside, keeps children and pets from touching the electric mouse trap . 
• Humane kill of up to 3 mice using high voltage
• If only 1 mouse is caught, the trap resets automatically, ready to kill anothger
• Green light blinks for up 7 days to indicate capture
• Red light blinks to indicate low batteries.
• Kills up to 100 mice per set of batteries.
• Lid flips open to keep hands away from rodent when emptying.
• Built-in safety switch automatically deactivates the trap when its door is open. Additionally, its unique tunnel design prevents kids and pets from reaching into the trap. 
• Safe for use anywhere in the home, Victor® Electronic Mouse Traps can be used for years to ensure effective mouse control.

Victor Multi-Kill Mousetrap M260 Features: 

• Two points of entry: mice climb stairs on side of trap after they smell the bait
• Instant death from high voltage shock
• Up to 10 mice die per setting. 
• Shock N' Drop chamber rotates and drops mouse into collection drawer
• Blinking yellow light indicates a kill
• Trap resets for the next mouse
• Built-in safety switch protects pets and children: automatically deactivates the trap when the door is open. 
• Power: 4 C Cells

Choose the trap or traps according to:

• Number of areas where mice are seen or their droppings are seen
• How many mice are a problem
• How often you want to check the traps and empty them

Note: Effective mouse control requires more than an electric mouse trap. Ultrasonic rodent repellers discourage mouse re-infestations. Sealing off entrances into homes or buildings and proper storage of food stuffs is part of a comprehensive plan to keep out mice. No control method is 100% effective by itself.  Mouse bait is also effective: just remember that mice don't go outside to die. They like to be warm and the inside of home walls is a favorite place to nest and to die. The odor from a dead mouse or a few is enough to make you want to vacate the area. We have found that ionizing air cleaners help neutralize that awful odor or decay. If your outbuilding is a distance from your home, then consider bait IF your domestic animals and children are not apt to get into it. 

Our experience and that of the experts is that multiple traps work  and adding ultrasonic mouse repellers helps to keep new mice out. Among the choices we offer are the Victor Sonic PestChaser PRO Rodent Repeller and the Lentek Ultrasonic Pest Contro 600 Model PR35,3/Box or the P3 International Attack Wave Rodent Pest Repeller. Disrupt any mouse nests, too. 

Mouse and Rat Bait Choice Include:

• Victor Multi-Kill Brand Place Pack Rodenticides,86 Pack VICTOR® Multi-Kill® Brand Place Packs are made with a powerful single-feed anticoagulant. Contains the first new EPA-approved active in over 10 years. 200x less toxic to dogs than the leading brand twice more toxic to mice. Made in the USA, Uses premium ingredients like oats. Sealed poison packs for Norway Rats, Roof Rats, and House Mice.For indoor and outdoor use.Kills the rodent within 3-5 days.Made in the U.S.A.Bucket of 86 blocks, 8.06 lbs. weight
• Victor Fast-Kill Brand Place Pack Rodenticides,86/Bucket - Value Bucket powerful single-feed non-anticoagulant. With the fastest formulation on the market, Fast-Kill® brand controls the toughest rodent populations in 1-2 days and sometimes within hours. Fast-kill® brand is ideal for an economical and quick knock down of occasional problems. Rodents will stop feeding after eating a lethal dose. This allows you to control more rodents with less bait! Additionally, since mice aren’t over eating, there is no risk of secondary poisoning with Fast-Kill® brand baits. So pets won't be harmed if they accidentally eat a poisoned rodent.
• Both formulations are also available in unwrapped bait as well. You get twice as much bait for the same price.

Question about the Nite-Guard Animal Control Light.

Answer: The Nite-Guard Solar is a new addition to animal control products. Solar powered, each Nite-Guard light flashes a red light on and off from dusk to dawn. Scientific research shows that night animals flee when they see the red flashing light as they fear they have been discovered or are being watched. This completely weatherproof animal pest repeller works best if used in multiples of at least 4 units. Otherwise the animal most likely will enter your yard or property from a direction away from the flashing red.  Each light mounts to flash in only one direction with an approximate 30 degree angle of sight as one moves right or left away from it. This is why multiple units are needed and spacing between lights is needed as well.

If mounted high, the light can be seen for a long distance, depending on the lay of the land. A flat, open area with four Nite Guards placed at 10’ for owls will protect an area 1/2 mile in each direction. Even at 3 feet off the ground a range of several hundred yards' protection is common. A night predator stops the instant he sees the flash. So mount lights according to what you want to keep away. Deer will respond to higher lights than bobcats, raccoons, etc.

For small predators, these are the manufacturer's installation instructions:

For predators like raccoon, opossum and skunk; put lights approximately 25 feet apart, around your entire perimeter (all four sides of the area) and place them eye level to the predators approximately 10-12 inches off the ground. If the area has sides longer than 50 feet, more lights should be used on each side. Face lights outward from protected area.

For deer, these are the installation instructions:

1. Four Nite Guard lights placed on a single stake 4 feet high, each light facing a different direction. Moving the Nite Guard lights and stake every 7 to 10 days is absolutely critical as it breaks the pattern that deer may get used to. You do not have to move them far, 20 or 30 feet is fine, more is better. If you do not move the post with the lights around the deer will begin to “pattern” them in the exact position night after night, thusly losing fear of the flash.

NOTE: Deer are perhaps the most destructive nocturnal animal in modern times, they are also the most intelligent. Deer are very hard to deter from an area and, with the exception of the Nite Guard, will ignore most attempts to stop them from getting at the food that they want. The also act differently than a predator type animal and so we need to approach the placement of the lights differently.

2. You could also use a perimeter type placement against deer, placing lights 100 feet apart and approx. 4 feet high. Again, you will need to move the lights around every 3-10 days to break the pattern. Suggestion: Use the Nite Guard in conjunction with some of the other “weapons” they may already have in their “arsenal” against deer. Most people with deer problems are very well away of the deer’s intelligence and know that they get used to things easily. Use the Nite Guard lights along with some type of “repellant spray”. The deer then will not only “see” the predator (the flash of the light), but they will also “smell” the predator. This can be a very powerful deterrent for those deer that seem impossible to repel. You will be able to outsmart deer and protect your gardens and crops with the Nite Guards!

Some suggestions about deer deterent sprays or granules are: Deer Scram , a granular repellent; Deer Away spray for deer and squirrels by Havahart and Deer Off Deer and Rabbit Spray by Havahart. All three use natural scent repellents.

This is a solar powered unit that is completely weatherproof. Daylight as well as direct sunlight can power the battery. Best results are when the solar panel is mounted to capture the most light.

Thank you for your questions.

Sincerely,

Barbara

Question about the Tattle Tale and the Animal Away Devices.

Answer: Steve and I discussed this. We decided the Tattle Tale was not the best choice for his situation as his dog is not disturbed by noises, the db level is 90 and the unit sounds only for 2 seconds.

The Tattle Tale is quite effective for most cats and dogs, however. I explained how I used the Animal Away to keep my dog from going into the bathroom to pee on the rugs during bitter winter days. Since the alarm is silent, no one else is bothered but the animal. Just insert a battery, turn on the unit, test after 30 seconds by waving your hand in front of the motion detector and your unit is ready to keep dogs away. Or use outside to keep animals such as rabbits, cats and dogs out of your yard or out of parts of your yard.

The Animal Away Pro model uses two 9V batteries or an optional AC adapter. This unit is somewhat stronger in output and has a variable frequency which also works to keep out raccoons, rabbits and more. It covers a fan shaped area at 70 degrees at a distance of up to 40 feet.

Steve decided that the Animal Away placed toward the doorway to the kitchen was his best option as that would keep the dog out of the kitchen altogether.

Thanks again, Steve, for your question. Glad we could solve your problem without causing pain to your ears or to the dogs.

Sincerely, Barbara

Question about the Victor Black Box Gopher Traps.

Answer: Getting rid of well-established gophers can take time. That's why eradication needs to begin when the first tunnels are seen. Our customers typically use both the Black Box Gopher Traps which are inserted directly into the tunnels to trap and kill the gophers and the P3 International supersonic mole and gophers stakes inserted directly into the ground (not tunnels) to repel gophers from digging new tunnels. Once gophers are established, the maze of underground tunnels can be so extensive that getting rid of them can take months and months. Momma gophers, like all moms, are unlikely to leave their young: spring and fall are the best trapping times in northern climates.

The Victor Black Box Gopher Traps are best used in pairs. Each trap resembles a small tunnel blocked at the end except for an air hole. The springs are on top of each unit and are set with your thumbs to avoid catching hands in the spring. This is a closed loop snare trap.

Black Box Gopher Trap Specifications:
• Outside dimensions: 5.5 inches long by 3.5 inches wide
• Interior dimensions: 5 5/8 inches long by 2.75 inches wide
• Choker Loop: approximately 2 inches wide by 1 1/4 inches high,
• Spring assembly (on top on the box), approximately 3 inches from curl of spring to catch and 3 inches between the two spring units.
• Vent hole in rear of trap: approximately 3/4 inch in diameter.

Gopher trapping can be done at any time of year, but generally is easiest and most effective during Spring & Fall. Once gopher activity is detected it is important to move quickly as pregnant females can be caught before giving birth to her family. Traps are most effective when properly placed in the gopher tunnel to snare the unsuspecting gopher in the spring-triggered loop. The hole should be covered up with dirt so that it appears as if the trap is part of the runway. When used correctly, traps produce a catch within 48 hours. It is best to move the trap to another location in the runway if you do not catch a gopher in this time frame.

To install, choose a fresh tunnel, peel back the grass (if in your lawn), remove any soil on top of the tunnel, set two traps (easy instructions are on the boxes) and insert back to back so there are two open ends for gophers to explore. The traps sit on the floor of the tunnel. Repack dirt on top and wait. Check daily. I suggest you wear garden gloves and use a large plastic bag to extract the gopher. Use a garden hose to wash trap off after you empty out the gopher/s. If 3 consecutive days pass and you've caught no gophers, move the traps to another tunnel. If the gopher/s fill the traps with dirt, push a carrot through the holes at the back of the traps, reset and replace the traps.

These trapping tips are from our website where we also have the complete instruction manual: If gopher/s pack trap with dirt. Place carrots in vent holes and reset traps Trap evening and early morning for best results. Wash traps with water after use. After trap has "fired", remove dead gopher from trap and reset in same hole until you've had three consecutive days of no catches.  

Thank you for your question.

Good luck.

Sincerely, Barbara

Barbara reviews the Squirrel Evictor MB10K and MB100K strobe lights These pest animal control units are mounted in attics or crawl spaces. Home pest control includes these environmentally safe strobe lights that get rid of roof rats, squirrels, raccoons, feral cats and mice. No damage to your building, no poisons, no traps, no repeat visits by exterminators, no decaying animal smells, no harm to the animals.