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Dozens of whiskered companions are up for adoption after one of the largest rat surrenders MSPCA-Angell has seen in years.
Dozens of rats are available for adoption at MSPCA-Angell. MSPCA-Angell
Looking to adopt a pet? It might be time to join the rat pack.
MSPCA-Angell in Boston is searching for homes for dozens of rats after 163 rodents were removed from a home in Essex County last month.
After taking in the animals, the organization kept 53 rats for adoption and coordinated with fellow shelters across Massachusetts and New Hampshire on the others, according to a statement from MSPCA-Angell.
“This is the largest surrender of its kind we’ve seen in at least five years,” Vice President of the MSPCA-Angell’s Animal Protection Division Mike Keiley said in a statement. “A well-meaning person got into a tough spot, and we were able to help.”
Among the organizations lending help were the Dakin Humane Society, Lowell Humane Society, Berkshire Humane Society, and the Animal Rescue League of Boston. Outside of Massachusetts, the New Hampshire SPCA and Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire also welcomed some of the animals.
The MSPCA-Angell now is caring for more than 70 rats — nearly three quarters the total the organization adopted out last year, the shelter said.
“As a humane law enforcement department, we want to work with people who love their animals to make sure those animals are getting the care they need,” Keiley said. “Sometimes that means helping with resources, other times it means facilitating a surrender, which was the case here.”
Taking in such large groups of small animals can stretch resources thin, Keiley said.
“It pulls our attention to accommodating one species when we’re caring for so many at the same time,” he added.
Rats from the Essex County surrender are now spread across MSPCA-Angell’s four adoption centers — in Boston, Methuen, Salem, and Centerville on Cape Cod.
A rat, surrendered in Essex County. – MSPCA-Angell
Keiley said the organization typically only houses cats and dogs, but given the size of the surrender, they were able to engage all their locations.
And while wild rats in Boston have a reputation for ruling alleyways and raiding trash cans, Keiley said their domesticated cousins make a great companion.
Despite the stigma, pet rats are known for their intelligence, cleanliness, and social nature, forming deep bonds with their owners, Keiley said.
“We’re hoping that rat lovers — and anyone looking for a less conventional small pet — comes out and gives these great animals the happy homes they deserve,” he said.
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