Question 1

Are mushrooms dangerous for pets?

Accepted Answer

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As with anything ingested by animals, there is always a chance that mushrooms will be toxic. Clearing the tops of mushrooms from the soil to prevent them from being eaten by pets is always a good idea. Since poisonous mushrooms can be deadly, we recommended that any mushroom ingestion is treated as a veterinary emergency. Watch for signs of lethargy and digestive distress in any animal suspected to have eaten a mushroom and contact your vet immediately.

Question 2

Are snake repellents safe to use?

Accepted Answer

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Some snake repellents are risky to use around people and pets because they use the active ingredient in mothballs, naphthalene. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified naphthalene as a carcinogen that can cause damage to the liver, neurological issues, and cataracts.

The Colorado State University Extension suggests there’s not enough conclusive evidence of the effectiveness of snake repellents to recommend their use.

Question 3

How do I prevent animals from building a nest in my house?

Accepted Answer

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Once the animals and their young are out of the house, remove the nest and locate any entry points. Some may be difficult to find because some animals can fit through very small holes. Once you’ve located as many entry points as possible, use materials such as metal or masonry to block off the entry. Ideally, you should choose materials that most animals cannot chew through. Create a one-way door or flap to allow animals to leave but not return. Additional methods include using repellants designed to make an area unappealing to the types of animals that find your home so inviting.

Question 4

Are squirrels hard to get rid of?

Accepted Answer

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Like many other rodents, squirrels can be a little difficult to get rid of (especially in the case of an infestation), but the best approach is to make the place as unattractive to squirrels as possible. If you do have an infestation inside your home, then professional help may be necessary so you can lay as many traps as possible.

Question 5

When are groundhogs most active?

Accepted Answer

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Groundhogs are most active during the warmer months, from spring through fall. On a daily basis, they exhibit peak activity in the early morning (dawn) and late afternoon (dusk), which are their primary feeding times. They tend to stay in their cool burrows during the hottest, sunniest parts of the day. Groundhogs hibernate during the winter, typically retreating to their dens from October or November until mid to late February.