03/14/2024
Well, it seems like something is in the air. I avoid making posts like this because I don't want to come across as negative, and often I just have one or two frustrations that eventually clear up. But tonight, I'm frustrated in a way I never have been before.
I have had a record number of approved adopters back out. I had more people approved than I had babies to offer. Now? I have two baby girls reserved, and two adult girls pending reservation. The rest you see here without green dots are available and no one wants them.
People have dropped out because I'm too far away (I cover my location in my application), because I don't accept their only form of payment (covered in my policies which are agreed to in my application), because they couldn't make the proposed meetup dates (even though I offered to set up alternatives) or because they got rats elsewhere, etc. A lot of work and time could have been saved on our mutual parts if these folks had paid attention to my policies and application/not expected exceptions at the last minute.
I never want someone to take rats they don't want. But honestly, I am frustrated. And I'm a bit hurt because I love these rats and am proud of where my lines are at. I know they're not flashy colors or trendy coats, but a massive amount of work goes into my rats. It takes a load of effort to keep them all socialized, cleaned, fed, and plan litters. It takes even more hours to process applications, communicate with people, take photos, organize them, organize adopters, and ensure people get the right rats.
I had been on the fence about halting my program, but I think the behavior around these two litters has sealed the deal. Once these litters are placed, I don't intend to make any more available to the public.
My heartfelt thanks to those who have supported me and given my rats amazing and loving homes. I'll always be here for you; the page will stay up and I'd love any updates people care to send.
