A Woman's Guide to Getting Rid of Mice

Chances are, at one time or another, it's going to happen. You'll move out your microwave to clean the kitchen counter and there it is. . .a fresh pile of mouse poo. Maybe you'll actually see the foul little creature. Okay, calm down! This situation can be easily handled and without much expense.

You have a few options before petitioning the use of an exterminator, so let's examine them.

Option Number One: The Glue Trap
I would strongly advise against the use of glue traps. They have, in my opinion, only one upside - they are cheap. The glue trap works on the concept of the rodent climbing across the exposed adhesive surface and becoming unable to free itself. This method is undeniably inhumane. True, you want the rodent gone, but allowing it to suffer for hours, possibly even days is unnecessary. There is also the chance that the rodent may choose to chew off his limb in order to save his life. This is a very messy option.

Option Number Two: The Spring Loaded Trap
This is the trap that we all know and love. The spring loaded trap is a very efficient and humane way to dispose of your little mouse friend. By placing a treat such as creamy peanut butter on the set, the trap lures the mouse in, the arm deploys and the mouse's neck is snapped. These traps are inexpensive, costing less then $3.00 a piece. This method will require you to pick up the dead mouse, but if you are squeamish, appeal to some kind soul or use a shovel. There is also a spring loaded trap with a plastic cover which can possible cover the entire mouse, but there is no guarantee. However, it might be worth spending an extra dollar or two if you are light hearted.

Option Number Three: The Live Trap
A live trap is the more expensive trapping option. It will require you to relocate your mouse as well. I do not recommend using this option if you will be away from your home for more then twelve hours as the mouse can easily dehydrate and die painfully, negating the whole purpose of the live trap.

Option Number Four: Adoption of a Feline
The option of cat adoption brings the added expense of food, cat litter and vet visits, and there is the chance that your cat may just refuse to hunt. You can take comfort in the fact that you have a new companion, however. Of course there's also the option of adopting a black snake, but that's something else entirely!

Option Number Five: Rat Poison
Quick, inexpensive, effective. The downfall of poison is not only that other pets may ingest it with fatal results, but that once the mouse ingests it, one can never be sure where he will expire. You do not want him decaying inside your walls!

Option Number Six: The Exterminator
Very effective and very expensive! Prepare not only for the hefty bill, but for spending hours out of your home.

Mice come with the territory when you live near any tall grass, field, wooded area, factory, grocery store or dumpster - just to name a few. The key is to keep calm and to not let yourself become upset with the situation. Remember - YOU ARE BIGGER!! Now smile and go buy some peanut butter.