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Post by Kim on Aug 24, 2007 18:04:07 GMT 10
Just wondering if anyone here other then me has ever owned or currently owns or is thinking of owning in the future a Fancy Rat as a pet? I have had them for 17 years and have bred and shown them. I have a number of ribbons and cards showing that I have many first place, second and third place show rats as well as a couple of Champion and Grand Champion show rats. ;D They are actually just like a mix between a dog and a cat. They are very smart and they bond to people like a dog will. You can teach them tricks and they will come when you call their name.
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Post by Kim on Oct 25, 2007 13:12:03 GMT 10
Ok, now I know that rats are not for everyone, but surely people must have some thoughts on the subject?
By the way I wont be upset if people have negative comments or thoughts about rats, as going to shows and display events you tend to hear many negative comments along with the good comments.
We've taken our rats to many of the Agricultural shows around Victoria as well as the Caulfield Pet Expo and the Melbourne Royal Show.
At all of these, the public can come up and see the rats, ask questions and so on.
So dont be worried that what you say may upset me.
I mean one of my own sisters is terrified of rats and hates them, my husbands sister is also the same and wont come near our place.
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Post by kate on Oct 27, 2007 23:59:48 GMT 10
I am not into rats, but my brother had one a few years ago. He trained it to do heaps of stuff, but my Mum was never keen on having him (the rat not my bro) in the house.
Cheers,
Kate
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Post by Kim on Oct 29, 2007 10:27:16 GMT 10
Hi Kate, Yes rats are actually as smart as dogs and can be taught just about any trick thata dog can be taught. They come when called, you can teach them to fetch a ball, to jump through things, to sit up and beg, to roll over and much more. Although people dont realize it rats are actually cleaner than dogs and a rats mouth is more sterile than a dogs. They are also quieter than a dog The only problem is that they dont live very long. On average a rat live to be between 2 and 3 years, with many passing away between 18 months and 30 months of age. (1 year 6 months to 2 years 6 months) But they have so much personality. I've had rats for 17 years now and really couldnt imagine not having at least 2 in my life. I do actually have a lot because of being a breeder and also having show rats, although many of mine are old and I've stopped breeding to concentrate on the adoption. So by the time we have our baby I may only have about 4 rats. Which really is nothing when you have been a breeder and rescuer as well as showing them. I just love them. ;D
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