A woman was left terrified when she felt a rat ‘brush against her’ while sitting on the toilet. Professional rat catcher Kieran Sampler, 30, was called to the scene where the woman discovered the rat had climbed up her drains and was hiding in the loo. The rat was found drowned upside-down in the water, trapped at the bottom of the toilet. Kieran described the situation as alarming, stating that it was the first time he had encountered a rat coming up through a toilet. He recounted the woman’s screams, emphasising the shock of having something touch her while on the toilet.
Kieran shared some of his bizarre encounters with rats, including cases where a rat lived in a bed’s wooden lats and another where a cat brought a rat into a bedroom. He highlighted the importance of humane pest control methods and spoke about training his two dogs to locate and terminate rats swiftly. Kieran, based in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, runs Vermicure Pest Control and advises people to take preventive measures against rat infestations, especially as winter approaches.
With the winter months looming, Kieran warned of an expected rise in rat sightings. He recommended trimming garden foliage, rat-proofing decking, and promptly disposing of pet waste to deter rats. Kieran also explained how rats are attracted to drains and suggested steps to limit their access to properties. Amid his unusual encounters, Kieran listed five peculiar places where he has found rats, ranging from inside wellington boots to the back of tumble dryers.
As a proactive rat catcher, Kieran anticipates a busy season ahead due to the growing rat population. By educating the public on rat prevention methods, he aims to help homeowners avoid potential infestations. His advocacy for humane pest control practices and reliance on trained dogs for rat eradication set him apart in his field. As communities brace for heightened rat activity, Kieran’s expertise and guidance serve as valuable resources in safeguarding properties against rodent intrusions.