29/08/2025
There are times in this job that make us question people's intent and reasoning for owning an animal in the first place.
Last week we got a call from a man who had over 24 rats - which were all living in a mixed s*x enclosure; pregnant mums and hormonal boys. This was an urgent case, as the numbers were only going to start multiplying. But that alone wasn't what concerned us the most.
For the newborn rats, the owner had already taken it into his own hands to deal with them. In a sick act, he had been taking the newborn rats away from their mothers and drowning them in water; also saying he should have "set fire to them". We were surprised someone would admit this, let alone almost boast about it. The newborns pictured in the first photo were born a day before we went to collect the rats. The owner had one last phone call - threatening to drown these newborn rats, too.
We felt like we were walking on a minefield while talking to him; worried that one wrong word would cause him to kill the remaining newborns and adults. He asked me over the phone "does what I've done make me a monster?". At the time I had to bite my tongue and put my emotions aside to ensure the safety of the rats.
I even bite my tongue while writing this now. There is a lot I want say, but it's in our best interest to keep it professional. I think everyone reading this post - whether you're a rat lover or even afraid of rats - would agree that no rat should ever be treated like this; nor should any animal.
Though our smalls unit is currently bursting at the seams with animals, I've never felt at such ease. Knowing these little guys are safe and will never have to be put through such misery ever again. Even after spending the smallest amount of time with the rats - they've shown themselves to be the sweetest, most gentle ratties. Within a day in our care, they've been climbing all over us and getting little head rubs!
These ratties have yet to be put on our website for adoption. But if you've ever been interested in owning rats, or just want more information about rat care, enclosures, etc -then please email us at [email protected]