Lisette,
 
I'm very sorry to hear about Lovely.  Anytime workers come into your
home you should make them aware that you have animals that can be
harmed or killed by toxic substances and inform them that it is their
responsibility to make sure none of those substances are left out when
they leave.  It's best to get this in writing, stating they will be held
accountable for any damages their negligence may cause.  This will make
them be more careful with their materials.
 
A few years ago something in my bedroom bit one of my ferrets.  In about
12 hrs. he had a lesion 4 inches long by 2-3 inches wide.  Whatever it
was it was, it was a big nasty and had to go.  As much as I hated to do
it, I had an exterminator come in and spray.  I was very specific with
him about how fragile ferret systems are and that I didn't want anything
sprayed that could harm them.  I caged all the ferrets and the
exterminator came in and did his job.  None of my ferrets were harmed but
the nasty never bit again.  I like to think it died an agonizing death.
 
It is always best to make workers informed of your situation so they can
be pro-active about protecting your animals.  I doubt there are but few
who would intentionally do harm.
 
Tea`
[Posted in FML issue 4619]