Canine rat-catcher

While cats have a long history of catching these rodents, certain types of dogs are also efficient rat and mouse catchers.

Cats are, of course, very good at catching mice and rats — at least some of them are; others can’t be bothered. Unfortunately, once they have caught a victim they like to torment it before finishing it off. This can be upsetting to humans. Also, when the cat decides to present the owner with a gift of deceased prey, placing it carefully in an empty slipper, this can also lead to loud displays of ingratitude by the owner.

Fortunately, cats often keep rodents away from the home just by living there. The rats know there is a cat in the home and simply stay away.

Several small terrier type dogs are excellent, natural rat and mouse catchers. Of the less well-known terriers, the cream, rough-haired Portugese Podengo is still kept as a house dog because of its abilities. Terriers are more humane and efficient killers than cats, as they simply grab their prey, flick it with a sharp shake of their head which breaks the neck, lay down the body and look for the next one.

Don’t overlook other dogs with special talents for rodent control. Dachshunds may have been bred to catch badgers but willingly divert their energies to wiping out the mice in your home. They will wait patiently by a mouse-hole and pounce when the occupant shows its whiskers. Lastly, the local favourite, the Pom-Pek ,is a very efficient “Rodent Control Officer” and many have rung up impressive lifetime-time scores of rats and mice caught in the line of duty.

e-mail: animalwelfarenetwork.org