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Verminators (Discovery Channel)

common sense media says

Pest-control reality docu isn't for the squeamish.


parents & educators say

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this reality docuseries -- in which pest control technicians search for and eliminate bug and rodent infestations -- is iffy for kids who are afraid of bugs or other "icky" creatures. Lots of pesky critters are shown crawling around; technicians use poison and other methods to get rid of them. There's some potentially disturbing footage of rats being killed with sticks and rodents hanging from jaw traps. Although these scenes are offered in an educational context, they may upset younger and/or more sensitive viewers or anyone passionate about animal rights. The series prominently features the Isotech pest control company, its logos, and its phone numbers.

Positive messages: The exterminators offer a service that helps protect clients' physical and psychological well being -- albeit at the cost of animal and insect life. Includes information about the cause of infestations and the health risks they pose.
Violence: Pest control is approached as a "war" that requires "tracking the enemy" and carefully planning "battles." Technicians (sometimes gleefully) state that their job is "to kill." Scenes show technicians killing rats with large sticks and crushing them behind doors. Some potentially disturbing images of dead rats hanging by their necks from jaw traps and piled up in large buckets.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: The Isotech company is blatantly promoted by owner Mike Masterson. The company's logo and toll-free number are prominently visible on the company trucks in many scenes/shots.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.

More on Verminators

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

Families can talk about how the series shows animals and insects being treated. Is it appropriate to show animals (no matter how pesky they are) being hurt or killed? Why or why not? Families can also discuss people who work in pest control or other fields that many folks wouldn't be comfortable with. How do people get started in these careers? Do you think shows like this one are intended to help viewers appreciate the work and risks that go into these jobs? Or are they more meant to entertain and/or be voyeuristic?

What's the story?

What's the story?

VERMINATORS follows the pest control technicians of Isotech, a Los Angeles-based company committed to doing whatever it takes to win the "battle" against roaches, rats, and other types of vermin. Under the leadership of company owner Mike Masterson, the technicians intrepidly examine every crack and crevice in order to locate the source of an infestation. Once they find it, they use strategy -- as well as poisons, traps, and even hand-to-hand combat -- to eliminate the creepy critters.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

This reality docuseries offers some informative explanations about the various causes of bug and rodent infestations and shows technicians hard at work eliminating these pests. But the real drama comes from the show's vivid images: thousands of roaches crawling around apartments, hundreds of rats scampering around after the sun goes down, etc. And then there's the footage of technicians picking up cockroaches with their bare hands, beating rats to death with large sticks, and carrying large jaw traps (which hold dead rodents by their necks).

While these images may be disturbing or even frightening to some viewers, the technicians point out that their actions are necessary to protect both people and animals from very serious health problems. Still, sensitive kids and squeamish viewers of any age might not find Verminators particularly enjoyable. And those who are passionate about animal rights may not react positively to what they see, either. But for those who can stomach it, the show offers a chance to see what goes into succeeding at a job that most people would never dream of doing. It might even make us all a little more grateful to them for doing it.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-PG
Network: Discovery Channel
Cast: Mike Masterson
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: Discovery Channel

This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

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What parents & educators say

Most useful reviews by all members

 
amazing
Very imformative show. Even the best of animal lovers refuse to live with rats, roaches, and other pest. Pest control companies a very underappreciated and not respected. Hopefully this show brings out a positive image of pest control technicians.

 
Land Version of Jacque Custo
I was very surprised at the professionalism of the exterminators and quality of the show. I have a new respect for exterminators. What impressed me was the knowledge that Mike had and the ability to find problems where most would have missed. I learned quit a bit about insects and rodents. There were definatly areas that were gross but I thought the show was well balanced. Unlike most reality shows these days I will watch again.

ew1075
adult
 
Educational and interesting, but also a bit creepy.
I like watching this show. For one reason, I live in an apartment and I want to ensure I never have pests. Watching this show is educational and teaches you how to know if you have pests, and how to search for pests. It is also just plain interesting to watch. You see some of the worst infestations and what true professionals use to handle the situations. This one is not for the kids, or the weak at heart. Not only do you see a lot of creepy crawlies but you also see some dying animals. It doesn't bother me any but I could see how this could be disturbing for some.

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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age