New to forum I have a urgent issue

[Nicodemus123]

Hi, I am new to the forum.  I have a very large problem.  Ok, I am now located in east TN.  I am going to be somewhat abrubtly moving to Key West, Florida in early January.  If I find a place to live before I go everything should be fine.  However, if I do not I don't what I will do with my ratties.  It breaks my heart to think of it.  But I don't think hotels and hostels would be very compassionate about them.  People don't really understand that rats can be pets.  I thought of just leaving them in the car overnite everyday and then keeping them with me during the day but it just seems really unrealistic.  I really need help thinking about this, and sadly I may need to find them a new home- at least temporarily.  I would let someone here in TN take care of them, but few would and those that would wouldn't take care of them properly.  I don't know if it will come down to this but would anyone be interested in two males?  One is about 1 1/2 years and the other is 9 months.  The younger one is a spaz, but he loves to play.  The older one is slowing down, he mostly just hangs out in his hammock.  He's very loving though.  They have a cage, but it's kind of crappy.  A marchioro rabbit cage.  Thank you all 

[LifeInCircuit]

If it makes you feel any better, I have brought rats with me to hotels on more than one occasion. Often cheap hotels(not dirt bag or anything..just not the freaking hilton) will allow pets..just tell them they're norwegian long tailed hamsters.

[Nicodemus123]

Well I will more likely be in a hostel, in which everyone will see them in plain veiw.  I don't know it just seems grim to me, maybe I am being a pessimist.  Also, I have no idea how long it will take me to find a place.

[rapforjane]

I'd start making phone calls if I were you. Call as many hotels and hostels as you can and find out what you can do. You're not hopeless yet.

[Kendra]

Try sending out a message to the TNsgotrats yahoo group.  I'm in far, far West TN (near Memphis), but I'm sure at least some of the people on the list are closer.  Good Luck!  TNsgotrats@yahoogroups.com

[Nan]

I'm in Huntsville, Alabama.  How far are you from me?  If I'm on the way to Florida you could drop them off with me.  I think you should weigh your options as far as taking them with you.  That would probably be the best for you. 
Diana

[Nicodemus123]

Thank you all for your responses, I suppose I will call the hostel in Key West tomorrow.  Maybe I jumped the gun as far as asking people about adopting them.  It's not something I really want to do.  If it turns out that is what must happen I am glad to know there would be options.  I guess I will just keep you all updated.

[rampantrats]

Maybe one of us Florida residents could help you.. like.. rat sitting til you find a place. I live about and hour and a half north of Miami. And if you are driving.. well... Let me know

[Nicodemus123]

Maybe one of us Florida residents could help you.. like.. rat sitting til you find a place. I live about and hour and a half north of Miami. And if you are driving.. well... Let me know

This may not be necessary as I stated before, but I would pay you for the trouble.  I can't believe how close you will be to me in Key West.  I would like to keep in touch about this.  We are leaving Jan 2nd for Key West, so it is looking bleak as far as finding a place beforehand.  We may even be camping.  I am afraid having the rats with me camping would be dangerous.  This is wonderful news.  I would really like to talk about this option!!!!!  They are such sweeties you would love them 

[rampantrats]

Keep me in mind.. My email address is regil68@adephia.net or you can post here.. or send me a private message here.

I wouldn't want you to worry about your rats. I have an excellent vet even if she is a bit on the pricey side and they have bent over backwards when I have had a problem. So... Let me know.. Sorry it took me so long to get back to you. I don't come to this section very often.

[Nicodemus123]

Wonderful wonderful news!  I have found a place to live in key west.  I was scared to mention the rats because I will be sharing the house with many other people, but the owner of the home is cool with it.  She wanted to know their names and everything!  Everything has really worked out.  Thank you all for your concern, and thank you rampantrats for even considering taking them in!  I am so very happy.

[Han]

Nothing really to add, but that I was really moved by all the care and love that just came out on this list.  And I'm so glad your new home will be rat-friendly! This is a lovely Christmas story

Enjoy your new life in Florida!

HAN

[lotsorats]

I travel a lot with my rabbit and 50 lb dog. I have never had any problems staying at motel 6 chains with pets. They just ask that you have a crate for the dog if he is left alone and a cage or crate for the rabbit. I don't think they would have issues with cages rats.

[rampantrats]

I am glad you found a place that will let you and your rats live together.. Good Luck.