NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — The least interesting thing in the house for humans is our trash, but to pets, it can be a source of nourishment and fascination. However, when pets forage through the trash, they leave a big mess, so how can people combat that? "Mostly, our pets are our best friends," said Brian McDaid, a recycling expert from Eagle Dumpster Rental. "But our garbage can smell incredibly appealing to our pets, drawing them in and turning them into wild foragers raiding our waste bins. As a result, they can turn into a domestic nuisance. However, pet-proofing your garbage is easier than you might think." Fortunately, McDaid is explaining how to do this, and it's a simple pantry hack. "There are numerous rather elaborate ways that claim to pet-proof your garbage — but one way is by far the easiest to implement, and seriously cost-effective," he explained. "All you need is a pantry staple and some leftovers." McDaid says all you need to keep your family, friends, and other night prowling buddies out of the trash is to rub vinegar or citrus peels around the lid of the bin. You can spray a combination of diluted vinegar and citrus oil or juice on the outdoor trash bin as well. You only need to put a few tablespoons of dark or white vinegar with several drops of citrus oil or squeezed citrus juice in a bottle, and fill it with water. But note, that if it's strong to you, it'll be overwhelming for them. Taking the trash out at night can be a hidden danger "You can also use lemon or lime peel instead of citrus oil or juice," McDaid advised. "You can buy cheap citrus fruits and use those, or better still, use the citrus peel you were going to throw out. Don't use citrus peels that have had time to decompose as their odor diminishes rapidly over time." Make sure to prioritize the lid and base to prevent them from climbing. However, if they do, try to stop them from opening it. The smell of vinegar and lemon or lime is strong when it's fresh and regularly applied, which discourages cats and dogs from trying to get to the garbage. Remember to do this regularly, otherwise, the odor will fade and become useless, so spray every few days. "This hack will work better than most things to deter your instinct-driven pet, who has decided to rummage in your garbage for what to them are odorous wonders. Why? Because it will hit your pet where it hurts. In their nostrils," McDaid concluded. "Using this hack should prevent you from having to clean up the mess your foraging four-legged friends have made of your patio. It can also help them avoid ingesting something that may do them serious harm, or getting trapped in your bin. The great thing about it is that it's so cost-effective, and uses up pungent fruity foodstuffs that you would otherwise discard immediately." Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW ...read more read less