Are wild rats safe to handle?

So, I had pet rats for years. They were lovely, friendly little critters and lived in a controlled environment that I could keep reasonably clean. read more

Wild rats may carry rabies, salmonella, leptospirosis, and many more. Not to mention, rats are one of the animals that is known for spreading bubonic plague (the Black Death). So no, it is not advisable to handle wild rats. read more

Rats are incredibly hardy animals who have never shown any problem adjusting to change. Usually that change is the introduction of a new poison, as humans constantly work harder and harder to exterminate these animals. read more

Always hold a rat close to your body, do not hold them at arm’s length as this will make them feel extremely insecure. Only one student should handle the rat at any time. Like many small animals, rats can be quite sensitive to over handling and should not be handled by multiple students or for long periods of time in any one session. read more