July 28, 2010 2.55 pm This story is over 164 months old

Fancy rat! Lincoln village to host pet show

Oh, rats! Pet rat enthusiasts will be helping Lincolnites gain an understanding of how loveable the rodents are.

Rats from across the country will be descending on Fiskerton’s Village Hall next month, but don’t be alarmed — it’s a fancy rat Pet Initiative event. Hosted by the North of England Rat Society (NERS), the event is aimed at raising awareness of the rodent as a pet, as well as a pet show.

“The day is all about raising the profile of rats as pets — enjoying them together, and encouraging and welcoming newcomers,” said Alison Campbell, Chair of the NERS. “Some people might not have even thought of taking their pets to a show before, but hopefully this rat focussed event will be a great place where people can talk, share their experiences and hopefully go away having learned something new too.”

Activities on the day will include pet shows such as the Agility and Curiosity sections, a hands-on section, trade stands, Lincoln Rat Rescue stand, make-and-do stand, competitions, quizzes, and showing pet rats to NERS standard. There will also be refreshments and meals available.

“People who are yet to be convinced will be surprised at how easily they’re won over by the very friendly rats in the ‘cuddle corner’. The agility section always proves popular with rats and people alike. This is where the owner encourages their rat to negotiate different obstacles like miniature ladders and tunnels. The rats really enjoy the interaction,” Campbell added.

Lloyd Allington from Lincoln will be entering Hattie, his black hooded rescue rat into the show. “My love for rats began the minute I rescued two girls who were nervy and jumpy due to mishandling and no socialisation,” he said. “But after coming home with me they became the rats they should have always been: affectionate, intelligent, confident, engaging and rewarding.

“I think people struggle to get past the common misconceptions and myths around rats, which is why I’d encourage anyone who’s interested to come along to the pet initiative and see what these amazing animals have to offer!”

The event begins at midday on August 14 and everyone is welcome. People are allowed to bring their pet rats, but must contact the show secretary in advance.

Source: North of England Rat Society | Photo: Patti Haskins