Print Page - Rat-Sitter Directory -- Please help if you can!

Post your information here if you are willing to be contacted about sitting for members' rats while they are traveling or on vacation.

Use the subject heading to advertise your location--city, state, and country

Please make sure to post:
1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive
3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?

Please do not reply to posts in this thread--use a personal message to contact someone and work out details.

I am willing to rat sit in the Milwaukee area (Wisconsin):

1) I can check on the rats pretty much whenever and have time to play with them
2) I can also drive to your place
3) No kids, no other pets at our home. Just 2 female rats
4) At our house they could play in a play pen
5) I am not familiar with sick rats yet but I am willing to learn
6) I would be willing to care for other small animals and cats too.

Taking rats into your home to "sit" is a huge "no no" as far as quarantine. You're taking a huge risk and exposing your kiddos to whatever the other group has. The only way this would work out is if the "sitter" didn't have any rats (or rodents of any sort) of their own, or if they came to your home and took care of them there (and then spent a few hours out of the house before returning home to their own animals).

A different room is not enough- in actuality you may as well not quarantine at all. It must be a *completely* different airspace in order for a quarantine to be effective. Not the basement, not the back room. If you have a heated/AC'd out building for example, that might work, however changing clothes and showering before you held your own rats would be a must.

Of course it IS up to every person to decide what they, as an individual are going to do for their pets. However, if you've ever seen what SDA or Sendai can do and how fast these illnesses can work, you may re-consider that policy. We're here to be caretakers and do what's best for our kiddos - taking unneeded risks isn't in their best interest.

I am located about 50 minutes south of the Twin Cities, just a short ways off of I-35 on Highway 19.

1. I am only available from mid-June to late September
2. I am willing to drive up to about an hour away and will go to the Cities, however, the frequency may be every other day if the drive is significant
3. I can commit a few hours each day to provide care, stimulation and free-range time
4. I don't have much in-practice medical experience but I am always willing to learn
5. I have experience caring for dogs, cats, and some reptiles

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive
3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?

Duluth, MN until May 12th then in Lakeville, MN til the end of August.
1. College Student, class til 5pm M-Th I don't start class til 1 on MW 9-2 on F availible ALL weekend. After May I'll be working fulltime, but probably from 6a-2pm with 2 days off/week.
2. Would like to stay in the Duluth area but I can go to Hermantown, Proctor or Superior. After May I can go pretty much anywhere in the Twin Cities area (prefer south suburbs). Willing to drive every other day AT least. (I can go more frequently depending on your location)
3. I can spend lots of time on weekends and days off of work. Time would be limited on school/work days
4. No experience with rat medical care. Willing to learn (seriously considered being a vet tech until about 1 month ago)
5. I've cared for cats, dogs, fish, rabbits, mice, lizards, frogs, turtles, horses (riding horses and draft), cows, pigs, chickens, goats, and sheep. (summer job is working at the MN zoo Farm.) I'm willing to look after any of these animals as well.

Good point about taking rats into your own home if you have rats. I was always wondering about that. So, I am updating my post response:

I am willing to rat sit in the Milwaukee area (Wisconsin) - up to 20 miles:

1) I can check on the rats pretty much whenever (I don't take them to my house since I own two rats)
2) I am willing to drive up to 20 miles, once a day, every day
3) I have time to play with them for about one hour a day
4) I am not familiar with sick rats yet but I am willing to learn. Of course I would go to the vet if necessary
5) I would be willing to care for other small animals and cats too (only experienced in cat care).

Location around exit 3 Interstate-81 VA.

Schedule is open almost always.

Can drive up to 50 miles with gas reimbursement. Also can keep rats at mother's rat-free home.

Can commit at least 1 hour per day probably more.

No experience with sick rats but I can follow instructions very well and am definitely willing to learn.

I have experience in caring for ferrets, dogs, cats, snakes, fish, rabbits, rodents, and chinchillas.

I am willing to rat-sit in Pennsylvania (Altoona Area).

1. I'm a teacher, so you have a good idea what my schedule is like.

2. If I have to go to your house, it has to be within 20 minutes. . .although I'd consider further if I have a reason to be out that way (or if you're willing to help with gas). I'd rather watch your animals at my house, I have pleanty of room to keep them separate from my own.

3. If I'm going to your house, I like to make it a longish stay to make the drive worth it, so free-ranging is a definate.

4. I have an excellent vet for all kinds of animals. I have had some experience with ratty illness. I have worked with rats with emotional problems in the past. I have no experience with rats with handicaps, but that doesn't mean that I'm not willing to rat-sit.

5. My family currently consists of two small dogs, a cat, three anoles, and a husband. I'm willing to care for any of these, but you'll have to find another sitter for your own husband ;) I also have experience with various other small animals, frogs, and snakes. I don't do fish unless there are VERY detailed instructions, because I have problems keeping fish alive.

1) My schedule tends to vary so that would have to be figured out as needed.
2) I would drive up to thirty minutes, I would make the drive at least every other day but if it is close then every day.
3) I could commit at least an hour each time I go.
4) The only rat medical care I have done is to administer medication, so I can manage that. I would be okay with caring for a special needs as long as it wasn't too complicated.
5) I have tons of experience with cats and dogs, and more limited experience with rabbits, ferrets, birds, and fish. :)

I know how hard it is to not only find someone who is willing to watch rats but also had experience so I am always an option to Tucson people. However I would hope to be more of a last resort then a first, if ever even needed.

1. My schedule is very open
2. I could care for pets pretty much anywhere in the Seattle area. I use the bus to get around though we do have a car (gas is so expensive!).
3. Right now I could commit to several hours a day easily if needed
4. My medical experience stops at basic medication but I would be willing to learn new medications if needed
5. I've cared for rats, mice, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, cats, dogs, iguanas, snakes, turtles, horses, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, parrots, lizards, various amphibians, insects, spiders.... I used to pet sit for spending money when I was a teenager ;)

I'm located in Weschester, NY

I'm available in the afternoon-evening hours

I will travel in and around Westchester (contact me if you're located around this area)

Time per day (and amount of times/day) is dependent upon how far I have to travel, although half an hour to an hour a day is expected regardless of travel time

I've medicated my own rats with the usual liquid antibiotics, and am comfortable with medicating other rats. Explicit instructions should come along with meds/special needs ratties. (And any animal, for that matter)

I have experience caring for mice, hamsters, rabbits, cats, dogs, and horses.

Please make sure to post:
1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive
3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?

Hi, I'm Brandy, located in the Reno, Sparks, Sun Valley area in Nevada

1. I am always available. My husband works during the day currently, while I stay at home and take care of bills and our babies.
2. I am always willing to drive anywhere your pet needs to go. If you have a perferred vet in the area, I will be sure to take it there.
3. As I stated, I can commit alot of time, due to me not working currently. I hope to instill as much free-range on your rat as I do all of mine. I will quarantine them so they will have their own space, their own free-range area, and won't come in contact with anyone else but me or my husband.
4. I worked in petstores for a while now, taking care of all their special needs and learning about each individual one. I am more than willing to learn something about rats that I don't already know, infact I'm learning more about them everyday.
5. I've cared for dogs, hedgehogs, ferrets, cats, any small animal like mice gunni pigs, hamsters, etc. I have cared for a vast knowledge of reptiles... but I have a policy against owning or caring for snakes for the time because I wouldn't be able to feed them what they needed. I've tried and it broke my heart.

Northern California (Butte County)

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available -----I am open most of the time.

2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive Butte County...Once a day

3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?A much as needed

4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?I have some Medical experience, I will will be glad to take care of special needs.

5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?Rats, dogs, cats, fish, goats, sheep, chickents, ducks, HORSES, cows....You name it.... and I have at some time in my life either owned or pet sitted for one.

I have 3 rats of my own, and have owned rats since I was very young.

I can sit anywhere in Ventura County and some places in Santa Barbara proper, but not other areas of SB county.

I also have experience with dogs, cats, small birds, hamsters, guinea pigs, and opossums.

I am available to rat sit any time after 2 in the afternoon 'til whenever is needed. So, yes, there would be lots of time to free range. ;D that's the best part of rat - sitting anyway, isn't it? I would make the drive daily! Rats need (and hog) all the attention they can get. :BlueDumboSmile:

I have experienced a few sicknesses with my rats and know the ammount of care and dedication it takws to nurse a sick rat back to health. I also know how to get them to take their meds without fuss! (It's all in the food when it comes to little ratties. :) ) It would be a pleasure for me to take care of special needs rats.

(modified 5/2008, I have relocated but am once again available for rat sitting and possible fostering for rescues)

Seattle, Washington

I have owned rats for about 4 years but am currently ratless. I would be willing to rat sit in my home as it would be a clean and safe environment. I have been away from the rat world for quite some time and I am not ready for more rats of my own but would love to help other rat owners.

1. I leave home at 7:30am and return at 5:30 pm for work, Monday through Friday but I am home all day during the weekends.
2. I would prefer to rat-sit in my home (S. Seattle) but could possibly consider visiting your home if necessary.
3. If the rats come to my home I can spend as much time as needed meeting their care/attention needs before and after work.
4. My previous rats lived very long lives but did have some health issues (unfortunatly as most rats do). I feel very confident in providing meds or special feeding if needed and would not hesitate to bring the rats to their vet if needed. During the time that I owned my rats I was very active with forums and research.
5. I do have two dogs of my own. Both are very well trained and are in a fenced yard during the day so they would never be left alone with the rats at any point in time. I do have experience with rabbits as well.

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available: Afternoon and at night all year
2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive: Across state if needed, depending on how often- we would have to discuss it
3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging? I can commit an hour or so, and free-ranging is fine.
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs? I have experience in upper respiratory diseases and tumors. And yes, I'd be comfortable with it.
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for? Cats, hamsters, guinea pigs, and, of course, fish

I'm thirteen, but very experienced with animals.

1. I am availible before 10 am and after 8 pm, depending on how far I have to drive obviously. I might be availible earlier as I might be changing jobs.
2. 30 min only please. everyday visits would be fine.
3. I can commit however much time needed as long as I am not late for work ;)
4. I would be fine with caring with a rat with special needs, I have a background working as a vet assistant, so I have no problems administering medicince, giving injections, ect.
5. I have experience caring for sugar gliders, lizards, frogs, snakes, tarantulas, fish (salt and fresh) horses, tortoises, game birds, large birds, small birds, hedgehogs, and of course cats and dogs. Basically anything cept maybe cows or piggies-but I could learn that.

Pending a further decision I might be accepting my old job back at the vet clinic making vet care for emergencies easily accesable. I am also within 30 min drive of airport emergency clinic (they know me well)

I will not be rat sitting until my rats lab results have come back and presented a clean bill of health as well as my quarentine period is over. (I will not rat-sit in my home without comprehensive testing and a recent visit to a competent rat vet *AND* I would have to accompany you for the visit)

Due to the nature of my work, I am available at some times of the year- other times not-you would have to call ahead to find out.

I would be willing to drive a half hour total.

I could spend a minimum of 1/2 hour at the house. I am comfortable with free ranging other's rats only with instructions.

Yes, I can care for a rat with special needs.

I can care for birds, from finches up to macaws, reptiles (I am comfortable feeding live fish, crickets, meal worms, wax worms and frozen mice), Other rodents, chinches, cats, dogs, fish (fresh, brackish and salt), Horses, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens- Pretty much everything.

All instructions must be written down clearly, and all of your vets must be listed.

Dallas Area

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
would have to contact to see at the time, usually available often

2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive
can drive all over the dallas area, maybe fort worth

3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
I can provide playtime and cleaning time. contact me during this time to see how much time

4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
I have had rats for about 5 years now. I haven't had any special experience in really intense medical care. I have experience dealing with injuries and cleaning and doctoring wounds. I also have experience caring for elderly rats

5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have
I have 3 small dogs that play with my rats all of the time. The rats have free-range time and the dogs are very gentle. THe rats actually chase the dogs around sometime. And some of them groom the dogs alot.

I can rat-sit in the Detroit & Ann Arbor areas of Michigan

1. My schedule varies but I am always home in the evenings and sometimes in mornings and afternoons.

2. I am willing to drive within a half-hour radius, maybe a little more.

3. I'll commit every minute I can and I'll be sure to at least do some free range activities before I leave.

4. Depending on the special needs I can give medications and such, just may be pressed on time some days so it would depend on the needs of the rat in specific.

5. I am very experienced with dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and sugar gliders. I am not incredibly experienced in caring for ferrets [hands-on] but have done plenty of research to care for them properly.

Personal Note: I can bring animals into my home temporarily if people are comfortable with it so that they can get that maximum amount of attention while the owner(s) are away.

1. I am currently available at all hours.
2. I am willing to travel around the Greater Cincinnati tri-state area (OH, KY, IN). Basically, 30 miles or so from where I'm at (east side). Might be willing to travel more if need be.
3. I can commit as much time as you'd like.
4. I have handled respiratory infections (including nebulizer treatments), stroke, wounds, lice, tumors and abscesses. I've given shots and oral medicine. A special needs rat is something I'd be comfortable with.
5. Hamsters (including from birth), dogs (including from birth), cats, fish. I'd be willing to learn about the care of any animal.

I am more then willing to care for pets in my home as well.

Actually, my partner is the official pet-sitter, but I figured it'd be good to post here.

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
I have a full-time job (8-4), but depending on the area, Rachael is available at various times throughout the day.
2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive
Can't drive too far on a regular basis (suburbs of Syracuse), and once or twice a day.
3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
A regular "visit" is between 20 and 45 minutes, but for just sitting with some freeranging smatters, that can be extended--she's worked out "custom-visits" before
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
We've had plenty of rats with lung problems, lots of antibiotics/liquid drugs, given sub-Q fluids, she's given insulin shots (to cats, not rats), and we had a disabled rat as well.
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?
Cats, dogs, birds, lizards, amphibians, fish, pretty much everything allowed to be kept as pets (little experience with barnyard animals--a couple horse/llama interactions, but limited) I practically own a zoo (Parrots, Parakeets, Cockatiels, Bunnies, Cats, Rats, Guinea Pigs, Mouse, Hamsters, Gerbils, Frogs, Anoles, Bearded Dragons, Geckos, and Fish)

Thanks!

Meriden, CT

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
Open Schedule

2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive?
I can either keep them at my house (2 floor house), or I can drive at most 30 maybe 40 min.
As far as how often it can be from every day to every other day, depends how far the drive is.

3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
I'm used to free-ranging. My rats have always been free-ranging. I can spend upto 1-2hours. If I go more then once a day (if it's with in my home town area, give or take 5-10 miles) I could split it up 1 hours in the morning/noon time and 1 hour in the later evening.

4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
I have never cared for a rat with a special need. Although i've had to medicate my own rats before. I've been owning rats for 3 years now and have owned 9 rats.

5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?
Small animals (Hamsters, Mice, Rats, Gerbils) Rabbits, Guinea pigs, Ferrets, Dogs, Cats, Birds, Fish.

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive
3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?

1. I am a college student so I do spend significant time in class... but I am home several hours each day.
2. I live in Martinsburg, WV... about an hour outside Baltimore and DC and 30 min. from Frederick, MD/ Leesburg,VA. I would be willing to drive to pick up the rattie to keep at my home.
3. I can commit several hours a day for play. I have four female rats that I spend a lot of time with everyday. I don't "free range"... exactly... because I don't have a totally rat proof room. But, they do get supervised play outside the cage in certain areas. I also have a play pen for them.
4. I've given liquid Baytril via a syringe to all of my rats. More comfortable with mixing with food. If the rat has a NON-contagious medical problem such as a tumor or bumble foot or something of the sort I can take care easily. I used to pet sit dogs with cancer and external tumors where I had to apply iodine and other medications. I can also administer vitamins and pills. However, if the rat exhibits any signs of Myco or URD or anything of the sort I won't agree. If the rat has frequent Myco flare-ups... I'm not going to risk my babies. Sorry.
5. Like I said, I used to pet sit cats and dogs for several days at a time. Also, I have owned cats, hamsters, gerbils, dwarf hamsters, anoles, blue elsavadorian iguanas, skinks, geckos, frogs, turtles, and all kinds of fish. I currently own one cat (and I take care of a stray) and four 4 month old rats.

1. What your schedule is like when you are available.
2. How far are you willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive.
3. How much time can you commit per day. Can you spend enough time to allow for free ranging?
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be compfortable caring for a rat with special needs?
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experiance in caring for?

I'm a college student, but take my courses at home. So my schedule is pretty much free.

I don't drive, but my mother is willing to drive me. I'm willing to drive anwhere in the city and immediate areas outside the city, up to Portland, TX.

I can commit to 1 1/2 to possibly 2 hours a day. I think that would allow enough time for free ranging.

I have experience with medical need rats, some of my rats have had problems in the past. I feel compfortable taking care of a special needs rat.

I've worked at a dog kennel in the past. I've taken care of dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and other small critters, so pretty much anything. I'm fairly compfortable around dogs, as long as they are not aggresive. I can take care of reptiles, but it depends on what kind of reptile you have. I'm fine with everything else. I am trustworthy and dependable. Any questions you can PM or email me.

I run my own rat rescue and have been rat-sitting for local rat-owners in the area for over 5 years. References available.

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available?: My schedule is very open, and there are two of us to help care for them.
2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive? I would prefer to bring them to me instead of making a daily trip to the owners home. I am willing to do pickup/deliver within 3 hours of Houston with gas reimbursement. We have a separate house 1/2 hour from our main residence where boarding animals are kept. It's climate controlled and has a play area. Quarantine will not be an issue. We are willing to make a daily trip within an hour of our home.
3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging? Several hours. Yes.
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs? Absolutely. We have cared for some of the worst medical cases I have ever even heard of. We are experienced with respiratory problems, congestive heart failure, parasites, megacolon, tumors, stroke, SubQ fluids, oral medications, wound care, etc. etc. We have an E-Vet and two other Exotics vets within a five minute drive.
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?

Haha. Rats, wild rats, mice, wild mice, hamsters, gerbils, chinchillas, prairie dogs, rabbits, cavies, degus, jirds, spiny mice, lemmings, short-tailed possums, hedgehogs, roo rats, finches, canaries, parakeets, lovebirds, conures, quakers, parrotlets, parrots, macaws, cockatoos, snakes, lizards, turtles/tortoises, geckos, tarantulas, scorpions, cockroaches, millipedes, fresh and saltwater fish, ducks, chickens, horses, dogs, and cats. No 'hot' snakes or illegal wildlife.

And I probably forgot a few...

Portland, OR

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available? This is totally dependent on what classes I'm taking that quarter, ask for specifics.
2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive? I can only commit to places that I can reach by bus (sorry).
3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging? Depending on my classes I'd say that I can certainly commit to at least an hour a day.
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs? I don't have much experience. With explicit directions, and an emergency contact I would care for most special needs.
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for? Experience with cats, dogs, fish, birds, horses, rats, gerbils/hamsters/mice, rabbits. I'm not willing to spend out of cage time with hamsters/gerbils as I am afraid of them, I can certainly feed and water them and clean their cages though. (Laugh if you must.) I've never cared for ferrets or Gpigs, but I've read a lot about them and would give it a try!

Chicago, IL

1. My schedule is currently pretty open but in the fall I will have a new schedule.
2. I can go short distances (within 4-5 miles of 60659 area code) to your home, OR I can care for your rats in my own home. I do not have any rats or other rodent pets in the home.
3. I can commit several hours per day, or if the rats were in my home they would get a lot of playtime out of the cage during the day.
4. I have experience with pet medical care. I have worked with pets and have given oral medications and used a nebulizer with my previous rats, provided post-surgical care and 'nursing' care. I have also done sub-q shots/fluids with dogs/cats.
5. I have experience caring for rats, mice, hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets, dogs, cats, gerbils, frogs, snakes, lizards, turtles and rabbits.

1) Right now, I'm a stay at home mom so my schedule is fairly open. After Sept. 07, you'd have to call.
2) I will travel up to an hour a day with gas reimbursement.
3) I am flexible with the amount of time I will spend. Free range time is no problem.
4) I have some exp. with ill ratties- oral meds., ointments, sub q. I have no exp. with special needs except nursing orphans, spec. diet, but am willing to learn.
5) I have exp. with mice, rabbits, ferrets, sugar gliders, pot bellies, dogs, cats, iguanas and other lizards, turtles, fish tanks, prarie dogs, chinchillas, certain snakes- I will feed -only- mealies, crickets, etc.

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
I work from home, self-employed, so I can work around other people's schedules to an extent. Please call ahead.

2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive
I'm willing to go within the immediate Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Hawthorn, Lawndale, Torrance, Inglewood and Gardena areas.

3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
1 hour, which should be able to squeeze in a bit of time for free-ranging. :)

4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
I have no exprience with rat medical care except administering medicines and using a nebulizer. I have cared for a few special needs animals in my lifetime, though, so if it isn't anything drastic I can follow instructions.

5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?
Dogs, Cats, Hamsters, Mice, Guinea Pigs, Fish Tanks (Saltwater, Brackish Water and Freshwater), Birds (Budgies, Lovebirds, Sun Conures, Cockatiels, Finches, et cetera), Reptiles (Turtles, Lizards, and Snakes - will feed pre-killed only. Will not monitor for live feeding, plus I think it's too dangerous to the animals). I also have experience in feeding and preparing specialized diets - Cooked, Raw, et cetera.

If you are comfortable with me administering basic care to other pocket pets or small animals, (IE - chinchillas, ferrets) provide a care sheet - I'm excellent at following directions (comes with what I do :S). However, no experience with livestock.

I'm new to the forums but I figure offering help is a good way to get to know everyone here.

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
I work Mon-Thurs 7:00am - 5:30pm. I am available outside of these times.

2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive
I live in Cornell, but will go to Streator, Pontiac, and everything in-between or near. (Ransom, Cornell (obviously), Flanagan, etc.) (Within 20 miles.)

3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
Depending on the number of animals involved, I will spend whatever time is needed. Extra time if pets need special attention, and will plan time for free-ranging.

4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
I have given injections, oral medications, and am familiar with treatments for other animals as well. I am absolutely willing to help any animal in need.

5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?
Other small animals, cats, dogs, birds, reptiles, and fish (freshwater or saltwater).

I live in San Luis Obispo, CA

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
My schedule depends on the week, but I'm usually at least available early mornings, evenings, and weekends.

2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive
I'm willing to drive from Paso Robles to Santa Maria (in other words, about a 30 minutes from where I live), although I ask for gas reimbursement. I'm also willing to provide care in my own home. I own two healthy rats myself.

3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
About an hour a day if I drive to your place, longer if they're in my apartment.

4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
I've never cared for a special needs rat, but my live-in girlfriend is a vet tech and would be willing to rat sit for you in those circumstances (contact me for her info).

5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?
Hamsters, Cats, Fish, Dogs, and I once pet-sat for a frog as well.

I'm near San Francisco, CA!

1. At the moment my schedule is fairly open. I am most available in the afternoons and evenings.
2. I can drive 30 minutes (one way) every day, or further, up to an hour, every other day.
3. I can stay for an hour or more. Definitely long enough to freerange.
4. I am comfortable giving oral meds, nebulizing, and have a fair ammount of rat experience. I am not comfortable giving injections.
5. I am extremely allergic to cats, so no cats please! I adore dogs, and have dog sat many times, even for "problem" dogs. I also worked at the zoo and have experience caring for a variety of amphibians (toads, newts, etc), reptiles (large and small snakes, tutrles and tortises, alligators, lizards large and small etc.), birds (everything from doves and parrots to raptors and owls), and mamals (ferrets, rabbits, chinchillas, even a racoon, skunk, and kinkajou).

I live in the west end of the Twin Cities, in the state of Minnesota.

1) I tend to write my own schedule and keep myself only at 4-5 days weekly; my availability suits my activities for the week (which would be included around proper feeding times, administrating of medicines, etc)

2) My partner and I make a hefty commute for his schooling every day (100 miles, six days a week!), so driving is totally negotiable. Gas prices are to be considered (damn you, big oil!), of course, but it's all a part of the love for ratties.

3) I give my boys around 3 hours "out of the cage" time to just hang out with me. It's up the owner, as to how much hands on time each rattie needs, and I'm willing to care for them in any such way as the owner sees fit.

4) Medical care is a part of owning animals; the worst "special treatment" situation ever was giving a series of anti-inflammatory injections to my chinchilla, Rimshot. But we got through it together, with lots of raisins. I'm fine with administering shots, hand-feeding supplements, and bathing special needs animals.

5) In my life, I've cared for chinchillas, horses, guinea pigs, several breeds of canines, hamsters & gerbils, both miniature horses & miniature donkeys, cats, a very special sugar glider named "Bug" and a seven-foot iguana named "Lurch". Oh, and rats, too. :) I have no allergies that I'm aware of, and if you have a red panda as a pet, I will move into your house and never leave... just to let you know.

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
Right now I work part-time mornings and afternoons, that could change, I work in retail and it's week-to-week sometimes.

2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive
I probably couldn't drive more than like half an hour each way unless there's compensation... This is because my dad would have to do the driving and he might not want to, you know how dads are.

3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
Some days I have more time than others, but I spend at least half an hour with my rats per day. Caring for someone else's rats, I'd try my best to devote a lot of time, because I would want the same done for me. It would be hard for me to give an estimate right now though. We can discuss it if/when we need to.

4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
I've never injected medicine, but I've given my girl pain medication orally, and I've dissolved doxy in water bottles (for hamsters), and treated rat wounds with antiseptic and neosporin.

5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?
I work at a pet store so I have at least a little bit of experience with most common animals. I'd have the least confidence with dogs, cats, and saltwater fish. But with just about any small animal I'm good.

My location: Coney Island (D, F, N, Q; Cropsey Ave exit on the Belt Pkwy)

LA, California (Southern), USA

My contact email- crazypony@ca.rr.com

1. I am home most of the day, and my schedule is flexible most of the time.
2. I can not travel too far from home. But if I am sitting your pet, and it is an emergency, we will go the distance.
3. I can commit many hours per day.--As I have many of my own pets. Free range--yes.
4. Regarding my experience with rat medical care, I think my knowledge is pretty fair.--I am not a vet, but my judgement is trustworthy. Yes, I would be comfortable caring for an animal with special needs.--I have done so before. I have applied skin medication to rats, that is about the only medicine I gave to a rodent. Although, I have given pills orally to dogs, and could do a cat if needed. I have treated wounds, and can wrap a horses' leg (both for protection and medical reasons).
5. Horses, dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, snakes, fish, toads/frogs, mice, hamsters, newts, chickens, turtles (both aquatic and land).

**Note: I know of 3 vets that care for rats in one of my neighboring cities.***

I live in Northern Virginia area
1. I go to school from 8:00am and get home at 4:00pm. After that I finish my homework about 4:30-5:00pm. Mondays I am usually free after 1:45. I am available all year except for August 2008
2. I would prefer it to just be at my house.
3.The rat/pet could have about 30mins just by themselves and then 1 hour playtime/free ranging.
4. I do not have expeirence with small pet meds, but i would be comfortable with it.
5. Any small pet! I have researched all pets for 4-5 years!

High Desert, CA (2 hours North of San Diego)

Please note: I have no rats or other small pets currently, so I can care for your rats in my home.

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available

My schedule is ever-changing, but I don't typically work for more than 6 hours during the day, so there's plenty of time each day, 7 days a week.

2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive

I can drive up to 30 minutes once daily. More than that they have to come stay with me, and can do that either way if you prefer.

3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?

At least an hour, but will try to match how much time out they typically get. Yes, I can.

4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?

I've adminstered topical and oral medications many times. Cleaned abcesses/open wounds. I think I'd be comfortable with most special needs.

5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?

Dogs, cats, hamsters, fish, rabbits, guinea pigs.

Hi! I'm in Des Moines, Iowa, and would enjoy caring for rats so long as it was in the person's home since my rats are here and shouldn't be mixed with others. Actually, I'm in the process of getting licensed and insured as a pet-sitter in this area. If interested, IM or email me and I can provide you with the link to my site.

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available

I am a student (two nights a week) and work part-time, so it shouldn't be a problem. We'd need to discuss any scheduling at that time though.

2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive

Approximately 8 miles. I prefer to stay in Des Moines-West, West Des Moines, Urbandale, Clive, or Windsor Heights.

3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?

I should be able to. An hour a day isn't out of the question.

4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?

I do not have much experience in terms of medical care, but can administer medications orally or topically.

5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?

Dogs, cats, mice, hamsters, and fish (particularly freshwater).

Thanks! :wave2:

Abbey

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive
3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?

I'm Stephanie and I've had pet rats ever since I was a little kid (am in my 20's now) and have always loved having them as pets. I'm always happy to show people what great pets they make and have managed to turn a few friends over from hating rats to absolutely loving them!

My schedule is always varying these days, but I always make time to spend with the ratties. We'd have to go on a case by case basis to find out what my schedule is like at the time :)

I'm willing to drive up to an hour away from my home, particularly if you are really in need of a sitter. For distances over half an hour (one way) I would visit at least every other day. Closer and I would visit at least once a day.

I can commit at least an hour a day to spend time taking care of the pets and allow some time for free ranging as well. Just contact me and if I am not able to commit a lot of time at that time then I will let you know immediately.

I've had various rats with different ailments over the years. I know how to give them medicine orally and have had to put ointments on as well. Not at all familiar with injections though.

I have also grown up having fish and dogs in the household and can take care of them if need be. I haven't owned a cat, but I have pet sit for a friend who has one on a number of occasions. I'm pretty good at following directions, so if there are others to take care of, just let me know what they need, any contacts, and if I am uncomfortable with a specific animal I will let you know then.

Hi! I hope I don't get in trouble for posting this here, but I DESPERATELY need a rat-sitter in Alexandria, VA for April 20th - 26th.

My husband just found out he had to leave town for work the same week I'm going to be out of town at my parents' in FL.

If you live in Northern Virginia and can sit six boy-rats for a week (we can bring them there, or you can come here), please let me know!!!

Thanks very, very much.

Jennifer

I am willing to rat sit ;D...I live in North Reading, Ma (roughly 25 minutes from Boston). I will be 20 in may and I have had 7 rats. I have 2 females now.

1. The only times I must be out of the house are for class (normally 11am-2pm) and on Sundays I work 7am-11am. But other than that I can be home I usually am other then errands and such.
2. I would gladly drive to meet you half way if your more than an hour away. Other then that I'd be able to pick them up.
3. Since I am home a lot I can give lots of attention to each rats. My rats usually get to free range around my room for a few hours a day while i do my homework etc. Most rooms are rat proofed. I try to hang out with them as much i can, I mean who wouldn't :wink5:?
4. I've had to treat mine for a couple mico flare ups. Most of the time its given orally some others in their water. I'm a quick learner with medication, I also work with horses so I've learned a lot about that sort of stuff. I would be comfortable taking care of a special needs rat.
5. Other then the two females I have now(my trio died a month ago they were 26months, 28months, and 30months :( ) I have a husky, Allie, who is completely rat proofed, shes always been around them so now she basically ignores them. I never let them come in contact though just to be safe, instincts can kick in when you least expect it. When I let my rats out she goes outside in the yard for a while (she doesn't complain she loves being outside, so it works out). I also have a fish tank and I have a bearded dragon who hangs out. (yes yes i have a zoo but they are also a spoiled bunch)
I have experience with: parakeets, conures, horses, alpacas, goats, donkeys, dogs, cats, chinchillas, hamsters, gerbils, ferrets, guinea pigs, geckos, anoles, and a bunch of others lol

I currently am a mom to rats, cats and a leopard gecko

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available:
I'm available pretty much all the time, I do not work.
2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive:
20 minutes max, everyday
3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
Most days I can commit at least an hour
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
I have no experiance with rat medical care, but I'm sure I can handle giving medicine.
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?
Cats,dogs, leopard geckos, fish, rabbits,guinea pigs, small rodents, small to medium sized birds, snakes.

Ottawa,Ontario or Hull, Gatineau.

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available im available almost all the time
2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive with in my city.(ottawa,ontario hull,gatineau.
3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging? 2 hours a day or as long as you wish.
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs? i do not have any experience but im willing to learn.
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for? i have fostered cats for the SPCA here where i live. i work for the SPCA here where i live so have taken care of alot of animals.

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available
I do work ft but most evenings are mostly open (and can work around other committments)
2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive
Up to 20 minutes once a day, twice if you are within 5/10 minutes
=> mornings are tough, however, evenings would be the longer visit
3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?
Evening freerange can easily be done
4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?
My rats are a disgustingly healthy bunch, but I have administered meds.
Special needs would most likely be fine, although I've done more special needs dogs than rats (we had a blind beagle).
5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?
Cats, dogs, rabbits, mice, hampsters, gerbils, frogs
Our current zoo includes a dog, three cats, a frog, a rabbit, a snake,
and (latest count) 25 rats (3 with future homes, 4 to be adopted out, and 18 residents)

1. What your schedule is like and when you are available

I'm a disabled veteran with no kids...all I do is doctor's appointments, so I'm free a lot.

2. How far you are willing to drive to provide care and how often you can make the drive

About 30 miles / 1 hour away from home. I'm in Reading, PA. Zip code is 19606, I'm around an hour west of Philly.

3. How much time can you commit per day? Can you spend enough time to allow for free-ranging?

1 to 3 hours. I am unable to lift or carry heavy cages though. I currently have a Martin's 695, and that is pretty much my limit for what I can carry or move around.

4. What is your experience with rat medical care? Would you be comfortable caring for a rat that has special needs?

I have been a rat momma since I saw a sick little girl at a pet store in 1999. The most I have had at one time was 24, and this was because we purchased a pregnant rattie from a pet store that was selling her as a "Large Feeder." :o I have had a couple ill babies that were on meds from the vet and special diets. Also cared for tumor removal surgery rattie. All of them are beautiful, and if I am capable, then I would love to care for a special needs baby.

5. In addition to rats, what other animals do you have experience in caring for?

Guinea pigs, mice, cats, dogs, anoles, fish, parrot. Currently we have 1 dog (shiba inu girl), 4 cats, 2 girl mice, and 2 baby boy ratties.

I know I'm new to the board, but I have enjoyed the company of rodents for years now. My animals are very special to me, and I do everything within my means to keep them healthy, spoiled, and happy. :BlueDumboSmile:

Goosemoose Pet Portal

Rats Rule! => Rat Care Corner => Topic started by: mandycoot on February 21, 2006, 02:02:37 PM