Wednesday, April 03, 2024

For me, this is a new one: World Rat Day (happening tomorrow).

Recently, I began following on FB some fancy-rat owners who have trained their pets to “do agility.” They capably photograph and video the cute and appealing creatures, maybe carrying a toy, navigating an agility course, or as a still life.

Why am I interested in following people who keep rats as pets?

In my high school years, I brought home a white rat from the biology classroom to care for over two weeks of Christmas Holidays. I called that fun and affectionate creature “Mable” and quickly grew fond of her, often letting her run freely in my bedroom. She loved finding her way into my chest of drawers and chewed holes in clothing. I don’t remember feeling either relief or sadness on returning Mable to school, but over many years do remember her as a charmer.

Upon retiring to Central Oregon and living beyond the city limits on a small property, I learned about the local wild rats, known as “pack rats.” Named for collecting, or “packing around,” for their nests, various objects, and bits of material. Here’s my thing: pack rats are nuisances like all wild rat varieties, but they look cute and are appealing, with big whiskers, bright eyes, and busy trails. After trapping a pack rat, I take the caged critter to a BLM and release it.

Sometimes, I think about adopting a couple of neutered/spayed fancy rats. The upside is that they’re social, intelligent, low-maintenance, and fun. Also appealing is that rats have a shorter lifespan. On the downside, free time is required for providing companionship and training for pet rats; moreover, they’re primarily nocturnal and, for certain, are great chewers.

Dear Friends: Ahead of World Rat Day, sweet memories and some thoughts. Diana