I just wanted to write a brief post as I've received a few messages and emails recently which have been quite frustrating. There also seems to be a lack of understanding about how breeding, and getting rats from breeders works. This process is something that is frequently explained on breeders pages and Facebook groups, however some people are obviously missing this information or just not quite getting it.
Like many breeders, I have made it very clear on all my social media pages and my website that breeding is purely a hobby, and that I breed for my own lines. I do not breed hundreds of rats in order to cater for the number of enquiries I receive. I only breed for certain varieties and these are also very clearly listed. What is then frustrating is to receive emails asking for "a blue rex dumbo" with a timescale of...next week for their son's birthday. In case it wasn't obvious, I don't breed/have blue rex dumbos! Please take the time to read the pages and information provided by breeders. Look at what varieties they breed and research them before you apply. I've had numerous people apply to me saying they don't want rats with red eyes which is really helpful when the rats I breed have ruby eyes. Unlike pet shops, ethical breeders also do not have kittens available all the time. I generally only plan to breed twice a year and I hold a waiting list so my kittens usually go to people that have already waited months.
If you are thinking about getting rats, or adding more rats to an existing group, then I highly recommend researching local breeders and applying to their waiting list in advance. Wait times can range from a couple of months to over a year, especially if you are after a specific variety. If you are planning on buying rats for your children (with the full guidance and support from yourself), and breeders do not have kittens available when you want them, a lot of people recommend buying them the cage/accessories as a present instead. You can then spend time together setting the cage up and doing research whilst waiting for your rats!
Finally, I quickly wanted to mention messages and response times. As I've already stated, this is a hobby, not something I do 24/7. I think compared to some breeders I probably reply to messages and emails fairly promptly (usually 1-7 days, as opposed to several weeks/months). However, there are days or weeks where I'm particularly busy so I won't respond as quickly. I'm happy for people to give me a nudge if I've not replied after a week but chasing me after a day or two is unfair.
Obviously I've spoken about this from my point of view, however most of what I've said will apply to all breeders. We all have lives outside of our rats/ratteries so please be patient and kind. Being rude is certainly not going to get you rats any quicker! Not wanting to end on a sour note, thank you to all of the individuals that send lovely messages. I really do love chatting with people, especially about rats!
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