Can’t adopt? There are plenty of other ways to help.
Transporter
Overview
Do you have a car? We often need help moving ratties or supplies from one place to another. This is a great way to get involved without a big commitment.
Time commitment
The frequency that big transports need to happen will vary greatly, but it helps if you a) have open morning availability, b) have open evening availability, or c) make occasional travel across state lines. Sometimes travel might mean helping a foster in MA get their rats to a vet in NH for surgery, while other times it might mean driving from NY to MA to help distribute new fosters from a large hoard. You are always welcome to refuse any travel that doesn’t fit into your personal schedule.
Skills
A valid driver’s license and access to a car.
Adoption Counselor
Overview
Adoption Counselors work with prospective adopters to ensure they are well-educated on the care of the animals and have all necessary materials (proper cage, food, toys, etc.). Adoption Counselors play a key role in the adoption process. We need counselors most greatly for rats but can also use people well-versed in the care of guinea pigs, mice, hamsters, and/or gerbils.
Time commitment
Because there is some initial training, we would ask that you are available to be a counselor with us for a soft commitment of 6 months minimum. After the training period, counselors typically work on 1-2 applications per week. The time to complete each application will vary greatly but is flexible due to the email-only nature of the position.
Skills
We prefer that you are an already-approved adopter with MRR so that we have already confirmed you know your stuff! Must have access to email and ability to edit MS Word documents. Clear written communication and punctuality (24-48 hours) in answering emails are very important to this position.
Background Checker
Overview
Background Checkers confirm applicants’ information and cover the first round of making sure an adopter seems like a good fit! You should be a google sleuth who is maybe a bit nosey, but also someone who is able to show discretion in keeping others’ personal information private.
Time commitment
We ask for a soft commitment of 6 months minimum. Each application should take 20-35 minutes. You should expect to work on at least one application per week in general, but can easily take a week off now and then : )
Skills
Must have Facebook and strong Google-searching skills. Must be able to use discretion with others’ personal information.
Foster Home
Overview
Open your heart and home to animals in need! Fosters house and care for our rats, guinea pigs, and other animals. MRR is entirely foster-based, so as a foster you would be the very heart of our rescue. Must be located in New England or NY.
Time commitment
Daily care of animals, possible occasional vet visits, possible travel to meet adopters or surrenders (not required). We would ask for a soft commitment of 6 months minimum, so please do not apply if you anticipate your living situation changing soon. MRR pays for vet visits and food for fosters and provides caging upon request.
Skills
It is preferred, but not required, that you are already familiar with general care of the species you would like to foster. Must be comfortable handling animals to assess temperament and health.