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Setting up an animal trap in your yard largely depends on where you live and the type of critter you're dealing with. In many states, trapping nuisance animals like squirrels, rats, or raccoons is allowed, sometimes without needing a permit. However, certain wildlife species are protected, and not all states have lenient catch-and-release regulations.

Before placing a trap, check your local laws to avoid fines or other legal issues. Some areas allow DIY trapping, while others may require professional assistance. Most areas require a professional to relocate the animal once trapped. Consulting a pro ensures you handle the situation responsibly, humanely, and within the law.

Gophers are ubiquitous in certain areas, and the only way to completely get rid of them is to put down gopher wire two feet below the surface of your soil and vertically along the edges of your yard. Unfortunately, this may not be a practical solution unless you’re completely redoing your yard or installing an aboveground garden. Alternatively, you may consider putting underground rock barriers around the edge of your yard to discourage gopher visits. However, you’ll still likely get some pests because they can dig as deep as 6 feet below the surface.

Yes, rats will go near a sleeping human, especially if there is food or crumbs nearby. What’s worse, they may even bite humans while they are asleep. Common places for bites are exposed fingers, toes, hands, and faces. To minimize the risk of rats approaching you and your family members while they’re asleep, do not eat or leave accessible food packages in the bedroom.

Dawn detergent does much more than clean germs on your dishes. It can also help remove flea eggs from your pet. Give your pet a bath using a few squirts of Dawn in warm water—be sure to keep it away from their eyes—to wash away those flea eggs. Note that Dawn doesn’t actually kill the eggs, nor can it help you with any eggs that have already fallen off your pet and taken up residence in your household, though.