Meet Mona

Everyone, I would like to introduce you to the newest member of our family. Meet Mona!

Mona, what big eyes you have!

We picked her up from a local pet store about a week ago. John pulled her out of a tank of 6-week-old feeder rats and instantly fell in love with her. She’s a very classy little lady. She’s not overly shy nor afraid of people or loud noises or anything. Like the boys, she’s an arm runner. Her favorite place in the van is on the dashboard, where she’ll run around for a bit before burying herself under something and taking a nap.

She likes cleavage, too. She entertained us to no end one evening, when she discovered the ample nestling spot between the neighbor’s ample boobage and stayed there for some time, protesting by peeking out the top of her shirt if she moved too much.

She’s an adorable little girl. The pic only shows her face, but she’s all black, save for a little patch on her belly and all four paws. Her tail is even all black with a cute little pink tip. Coming straight from a crowded pet store (they’d JUST gotten in a shipment of feeder rats the day we showed up for Mona) she does have a couple of minor health concerns. She’s a little snuffly, for one. I’m not seeing any porphyrin on her fur or whiskers, and she’s gradually getting much better, so I’m thinking she most likely has allergies. She also has mites, which might also contribute to the snuffliness. Those are easily manageable without having to go into a vet, however. A few herbal baths, and she will be fine within the month.

Mona is a real smart girl. She’s learning to take food from our hands. She’s a natural shoulder rider, a little squirmy and excited when we first carry her, but she soon finds a comfy spot to settle down and nap and she stays there. She’s so soft, and it makes me happy to know that she’ll stay soft through her whole life, as female rats go.

I’ve never yet owned a female rat. We’re sticking with just one rat for now and we’re taking extreme care to make sure she’s healthy and comfortable. We love this adorable little girl already. I love rats. Can’t live without them. ^.^

Peace.

Ode to Jack and Jimmy

Very sad news. On Sunday, March 6th, our beloved friends Jack and Jimmy suffered heat stroke and passed away. We buried them under a cairn of desert rocks in a quiet, peaceful place. They weren’t quite a year old, but they were very good boys and we’ll miss them dearly.

Their sudden absence has left a hole in my life. It’s too quiet without them around. I miss our boys dearly. I doubt it will be long before another baby graces our little home.

We miss you Jimmy and Jack. You guys were awesome rats. I’m so glad that everyone here got to meet you. They miss you, too.

Peace, my beloved ones.