Since you already said you have a dog but are still having a problem with the rats, I'm guessing he's not much of a mouser! It might still be a good idea to pick up the poison and traps and have him do his business in and around the areas where the rats nest. The smell might put them of enough to pick up and move house. If that doesn't work and you're open to adopting another pet who will serve a dual purpose as rat control, a good dog breed to consider is nearly any type of terrier. It's what they were bred for and these tenacious little guys will go so far has to dig up the burrow the rats are living in! Be warned though, that terriers also tend to be very smart and high energy, a combo in a breed that should only be attempted by a more experienced dog owner who has time and energy in spades to deal with training and supervision.

If a cat is more your thing, nice mixed breed alley cats tend to have better instincts for mousing. Adopting one from an animal shelter is always a great option since they're often over full with them and the staff who've taken care of the animals will be able to guide you to the right one. From personal experience and accounts from freinds, females tend to take to hunting more than males but that more a generalization than a rule of thumb.

Grea : I have a thought for Cheska with the rat problem, I have had great success keeping rodents at bay by having a few ducks around. There is nothing quite as ferocious as a duck hen who has just spotted her lunch! They swallow them whole and the entire flock gets in on the chase.

Guinea Fowl A Guide To Raising Guineas CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS