Ben came to us on 4/15/19 because he had gotten out of his cage and was living in one of his previous owner’s cabinets! Since he came to us he has shown no tendency to try to escape and is a very sweet boy. He has done well in introductions with another adult boy in the past, but has not yet moved in with other rats.
Fostered by Theresa in Somerville, MA.
#2019169N, “Ben Hur”, Rat, Beige, , Standard Ears/Standard Coat, Male, DOB: 11/01/2017, Spayed/Neutered?: No
UPDATE 4/26/19:
“Ben Hur, AKA “Cabinet Rat” is our rescue miracle. He should not have been caught, he should not be alive. Ben Hur was a pet that escaped his enclosure and spent over three months inside, under and behind his owner’s kitchen cabinets. In desperation, and in preparation to begin kitchen remodeling, the homeowner turned to less than humane attempts to capture him, without success. Ben Hur was too smart and too lucky for that. Eventually the homeowner contacted Mainely Rat Rescue. The day demolition of the kitchen was to begin, MRR was on site to try to help this poor rat find rescue instead of something worse. Cabinet after cabinet was cut away with a loud saw immediately over his head, yet Ben Hur continued to hide and survive! Eventually he found himself tangled up in the wires under the dishwasher and had to be cut free and quickly grabbed. His capture was quick and rough, but he was saved.
He suffered great emotional trauma, but he is still so very sweet, so deserving. He does not bite, and when holding him he is calm and does not scratch or squirm. But he is still frightened, having not had human contact for so long. He has not yet moved in with other rats, but I feel like he will not be the alpha guy. He eats well now, but he won’t eat if you’re watching, and he has not learned yet that he can take treats from us. Now he needs a special adopter that will continue to be patient, slow and gentle with him, and to help him realize that he is now and forever safe.”
