As the pandemic prompted many to adopt dogs, we took a different route and welcomed rats into our home.
My partner and I have always been dog enthusiasts, particularly fond of Labrador Retrievers. Our chocolate lab is devoted to my husband, while our yellow lab is my son’s loyal companion. Despite my nine-year-old daughter sharing her love for the dogs, she has persistently requested a pet of her own. “How about a goat, Mom?” she suggests eagerly. My husband, however, quickly dismisses reptiles, declaring them off-limits due to his aversion to anything with scales. Unfortunately, cats are also out of the question because of my allergies.
Living in suburbia, our choices narrowed down to smaller animals such as guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, and, yes, rats. Guinea pigs are friendly but require daily cleaning due to their larger size and strong odors. Hamsters might be cute but can bite and are nocturnal, making them unsuitable for a light sleeper’s room. Rabbits, despite being adorable and soft, need ample space to roam and can be destructive chewers, not to mention they can growl at dogs.
Why Rats?
So, that brings us to rats. While the idea may initially cause discomfort, pet rats (or fancy rats) are vastly different from their wild counterparts. They are known for their intelligence and can even learn tricks, respond to their names, and come when called. Plus, they are surprisingly clean and have minimal odor, using a cardboard litter box that needs changing only once or twice a week. With a lifespan of two to three years, they are a manageable commitment for families. However, the stigma of having a rat as a pet still lingers for many.
Interestingly, fancy rats are gaining popularity on social media platforms like Instagram under #ratsofinstagram, showcasing their adorable appearances. Ratteries offer a variety of fancy rats in numerous colors and types. When we reached out to a local breeder, we learned that rats must be adopted in same-sex pairs due to their social nature. It’s deemed cruel to keep a lone rat, as they thrive on companionship.
We discovered that adopting from ratteries involves waiting lists and contracts, similar to adopting a dog. We explored Craigslist but were wary of the sellers’ ability to properly identify rat genders. Pet shops were also not ideal, as their rats might lack socialization.
Finding Our New Pets
Fortunately, we found a local rescue organization, Tiny Companions, where we could adopt. They focus on fostering a range of animals, including fancy rats. During our visit, my children fell in love with two five-month-old sisters, who were friendly and playful. Watching them explore my kids’ shoulders and snuggle into their hoods was heartwarming.
Setting Up for Our New Pets
Setting up for our new pets was cost-effective, with all essential supplies available for under $300. The adoption fee for two rats was just $20. Their diet is affordable, consisting of pellets and a variety of treats like fruits and cooked vegetables. The joy my children derive from caring for their new pets, building play areas, and spending quality time with them is invaluable, making the two years we have left with them feel painfully short.
Related Resources
For more insights on parenting and pet care, check out this related post on home insemination. Additionally, if you’re seeking expert advice on home insemination techniques, you can visit Make a Mom, a trusted authority in this field. For a comprehensive guide on what to expect during your first IUI, Parents.com offers excellent resources.
Conclusion
In summary, while many are choosing dogs during the pandemic, we found joy in adopting rats, discovering their unique personalities and the love they bring to our family.
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