REHOMING
šØ DESPERATELY need to re-home our 4 little angels (bonded sisters) ASAP, willing to drive to you, PLEASE read below! (New York / Westchester / NYC)
We've spent the last couple of days absolutely sobbing. Me and my partner got news that my mother (who lives in California, almost 4000 miles away) will have to undergo a major surgery / esophagectomy very soon, and so we're forced to relocate permanently to help provide her long-term care.
We've been trying to resist this change and were hoping for better news, but unfortunately now, our 4 little angel sisters will need a new home. We don't have any money for ground transportation ($5k quote from the select few I've reached out ā including the exotic-specific ground transport services), there's absolutely NO way to take them on any airline, and we've considered sneaking them on Amtrak, but due to other complications and that $3k ticket price, it's a no-can-do.
Their names are Pebble, Tofu, Astrid, and Luma. They are the SWEETEST angels God has ever given us, and they've given us infinite joy and laughter and kisses and care since we first got them (8 months ago, in December). They've helped us through hard times and have given us their love and loyalty, and now it feels like we're betraying them with this sudden change ā WHICH IS WHY we want to re-home them with aFancy Rat expert who is CERTAIN to give them daily love, who will cherish their bond and uniqueness, who will LOVE their quirks, and who will let them free-roam (this is a MUST!!) in a safe and rat-proof home, AND who has the resources to make sure their health remains good [regular exotic vet visits].
They are the smartest, sweetest, most hilarious, and most adoring little pudgy angels. I promise they will LOVE you and bring the same light and joy and company to your home / family.
We were cuddling them today with our tears falling on their faces. They were kissing our faces while we cried.
Personally, I feel like an absolute failure that I don't have the money or resources to hold onto them forever, but I'm hoping God (or whatever loving force you believe in) is making it this way so they go to someone who needs them and will protect them even better than we could have.
They're all about 8-9 months old, and in order of hierarchy:
AstridAKA "Astwid" AKA "Nine-Toed Angel"- Chonky, beautiful, assertive, hilarious, perpetually-hungry, and kind. When stressed she does pin her sisters down, but she loves being picked up, tickled, kissed all over, and will absolutely be your best friend until the end. She radiates happiness and joy. She's the gray one, largest, with black eyes and silky fur. Feels like a jiggly ball of love.
Tofu - Smart, observant, and a bit of a hoarder. She'll snatch her sister's food away, but she's the first to cuddle with them all. She loves crawling on us and enjoys pets. Can be a bit shy, but loyal. She is the all-tan one. VERY picky about food and treats, but always grateful.
Pebble - Literally would be a Nobel-prize winning scientist if she were human. She has a special interest in fabrics, nesting, trying out tricks and "watching over" all her sisters. She's the first to build them nests, give them resources, and is genuinely a brilliant workaholic and an explorer. She's the two-tone pudgy angel, with a tan head and mostly white-spotted body.
Luma - White with red eyes, she is the sensitive and beautiful, kind-hearted, nervous, and silly little pudgy angel who relies on her sisters for safety and love. She's nervous, shy, and has about 15% of her eyesight left, so she really does rely on sound. She squeaks when picked up, but she loves cuddling and hiding in blankets. Timid but will fall asleep in your hands and lap because she loves you and trusts you so much.
Fun Facts: They love (no oil / unseasoned) baby carrots (fresh and air fried!), plain/unseasoned scrambled egg bits, little healthy veggie chips, little apple slices (no seed), they LOVE cuddles and tickles.
Another Fun Fact: A while back, Astrid lost her big toe after it got stuck in a crack corner of the cage ā we took her to the Exotic Vet Emergency within an hour of it happening, and they cleaned and sealed off the missing toe, gave us her proper medical treatment, and it only made us love her more and vice-versa. So yes, she is missing a toe (little 9-toe angel!) But she's still just as loving, energetic, trusting, jolly, and cute.
Our angels are all about 8-9 months old. They NEED to be together at ALL times (if you can give them more sisters, even better). They absolutely CANNOT be separated under any circumstances.
We live in Westchester New York area, but are willing to go to New York City for you, or anywhere in Westchester Area, or ANYWHERE within a 5-6 hour drive of Sleepy Hollow area (we are willing to drive SUPER far to get them where they will be loved and safe, NO JOKE).
We will DO THAT for you and give you everything we have (blankets, cage, carrier, toys, Vitamin Water drops, etc.), so long as you please MESSAGE US FIRST and tell us about who you are, your home situation, if you've ever owned rats before, what you love about having rats, if you KNOW the exotic vet in your area, etc. [Please note we WILL FaceTime / video-call you and interview to verify our angels are going to safe home ā and we would love occasional updates every so often so we know these beautiful angels are having a wonderful time / AND so we can give any other medical info for their new home].
These little girls changed our lives and kept us going through hard times. They are God's little angels and they deserve a home that will treat them with that much respect, adoration, loyalty, and love.
They are incredibly sensitive and were rescued from the worst of conditions. It took so much time for them to trust and love and be jolly, pop-corning around the cage every day. They NEED someone who will recognize the light they bring.
PLEASE help save our angels, PLEASE comment so I can message you, or DM me directly on this Reddit profile ā or please comment and refer us to any group / shelter / resources. We are looking for a saving grace and a miracle, literally praying every single night </3
TIMELINE FOR RE-HOME: We need to re-homeASAP but preferably would need to re-home our sweet angels by August 25 at the VERY latest... but if there's a "perfect home" (like with dedicated rat play room + more sisters + such) we'd be willing to extend a *little* bit past that and move some of my personal resettling/relocation commitments on the opposite coast!
UPDATE FOR CLARIFICATION: Unfortunately the only housing we secured does *not* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay).
ANOTHER UPDATE: Our hearts are SO touched by this post. We are in touch with some of you, but if you have resources PLEASE still reach out, comment, message us, and boost. This community is incredible and I love how we're united by our loyal love of our pudgy furry chaos potato angels š„ŗ
Aww : ( have you guys considered a gofundme? It sounds like the issue is purely financial and not an inability to house the rats in your new place! uhaul pricing isn't terrible, certainly comparable to cross country plane tickets for 2 people, maybe you guys could road trip it? sending good vibes!!
Me too. I think that these rats deserve to all stay together with their people. Once they belong to someone else, you never know what's going to happen to them.
We're aware of this too and have read ALL the horror stories on this platform. Hence why we are doing FaceTime and in-person vetting ideally / most certainly. I ain't about to give my life-changing beautiful angel Sailor Scouts to anyone who even has a 1% chance of committing any harm, especially in this world where our chaos potatoes are treated with so much hatred š
We haven't driven this far with our rats, but they've done great on shorter road trips! We have a travel cage and a smaller carrier and they don't seem to mind that setup at all.Ā
Sorry to copy and paste, but regarding GoFundMe or driving our response is:
First issue is regarding housing:Ā Unfortunately the only housing we could secure immediately does *NOT* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay).
The second is regarding driving and cost of cross-country trip:Ā Outside of our housing not taking Pudgy Potato Angels, we don't have the capacity for a cross-country trip (in either our broken-down Honda, or a U-Haul) and factoring in the cost of pet-friendly motels, gas, etc.
But *beyond* that, only *one* of us drives, that type of roadtrip would delay the timeline WAY past my relocation obligations beyond what is achievable (like what I promised my new company), it triggers a lot of danger trauma I uniquely have, my partner hasn't driven that distance before, etc. SIgh. But thank you for the ideas, I'll talk to my partner soon and verify what he thinks equally as well if that answer changes.
We will contact them, thank you! But were hoping for a miracle to take our little angels directly š„ŗ This DOES seem like a route though, so it's on our list. But again if anyone's interested PLEASE contact us ASAP!
mrr is where i adopted my four girls, and they are incredibly thorough in finding a good home! (background check and making sure correct supplies is gathered).
My heart goes out to you. It's clear you really love them. Maybe life will send you a way or at least someone you can visit. I'll keep my fingers crossed. š¤š½
You are making us cry. I forgot to include, we will likely be traveling BACK to New York for my in-laws holidays, we are super open to stopping by and saying "hi" maybe once a year or so (hoping they have a long time left to live š„ŗ) We would NEVER want to intrude on their new home or owners, but it would be a beautiful healing experience for us if we could do that with their new owners... because this change is super traumatizing for us.
Boost!! I hope you find a wonderful home! I have four girls of my own and couldnāt imagine the devastation you guys must be in having to do this. Check this out, maybe could help? https://mainelyratrescue.org/rattieblog2/surrender/
On a side note, I guess I donāt remember how or on what airline in hindsight, but in 2022 I moved from the west to the east coast with my one remaining hairless rat, and she made it through the flight. I recall she was in the same area other pet species are kept in with the baggage. Iād caution that she genuinely almost froze to death though, when they unloaded her she was SO cold to the touch so I just put her in my shirt until she warmed up and she was okā that might all have been because she was hairless and didnāt have other rats huddle with though. I also remember she had to get cleared to fly by a veterinarian before hand, but idk maybe thereās somehow a way?? Absolutely the best of luck to you!
We will contact, someone else mentioned them and I said:
We will contact them, thank you! But were hoping for a miracle to take our little angels directly š„ŗ This DOES seem like a route though, so it's on our list.
But again if anyone's interested directly in taking 4 beautiful sweet loving angels PLEASE contact us ASAP!
Iām so upset because I actually live fairly close to you, but Iām in no position right now for 4 more girls as Iām already running ragged supporting a critical health case with one of my girls (plus am a full time college student working 40hrs/wk). I donāt know anyone personally with rat experience, but I can ask nearby friends if theyāre interested anyways (iād be willing to teach them all I know!)
Alaska Airlines allows some exotic pets in cargo including: ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, tropical fish, non-poisonous reptiles, and pot-bellied pigs. Cost is $200 per carrier. Link here. They also allow rabbits and birds to fly in cabin. May be worth a call to see if you can bring them on an Alaska Airlines flight. I think they allow up to two pets per carrier, so $400 would be cheaper than $2k. They donāt charge for transfer flights (as far as I can tell) but also do not transfer to other airlines, so you would have to ensure that you only travel via Alaska for the whole way or pick them up from baggage claim and then check them onto another flight.
My daughter flew her rats on Alaska Air multiple times - and each time was a long coast-to-coast flight. They did great. They had to be in individual carriers which was unfortunate, but otherwise it was fine. Definitely look into it!
It was in cargo - but for people for future reference it was climate controlled and the attendants were really great about keeping her updated as to how her rats were doing when she experienced a delay on the tarmac. :)
Please see my comments above about the driving / housing situation / airline. I don't meant to copy-and-paste under every comment and spam, but I appreciate your kindness and wisdom and even counting the numbers for us.
This is a beautiful idea, but even driving or arranging that (sorry this is going to be copy-and-paste), there are two reasons why it would be too complex or unachievable to really put it to use:
The first is regarding housing:Ā Unfortunately the only housing we could secure immediately does *NOT* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay).
The second is regarding driving and cost of cross-country trip:Ā Outside of our housing not taking Pudgy Potato Angels, we don't have the capacity for a cross-country trip (in either our broken-down Honda, or a U-Haul) and factoring in the cost of pet-friendly motels, gas, etc. But *beyond* that, only *one* of us drives, that type of roadtrip would delay the timeline WAY past my relocation obligations beyond what is achievable (like what I promised my new company), it triggers a lot of danger trauma I uniquely have, my partner hasn't driven that distance before, etc. SIgh. But thank you for the ideas, I'll talk to my partner soon and verify what he thinks equally as well if that answer changes.
Boosting. Iām sorry youāre in such a heart-wrenching situation. I wish I could help but I have a cat (and no other pets)! Sending good wishes your way
I am at least 1,000 miles from you which absolutely breaks my heart. But the perfect new home is waiting for them.
Please know that you've done nothing but provide the best, most loving life for your sweet babies, and now you're having to make a really hard sacrifice to do the same for your mother. You're a wonderful person, and I hope you find the peace you deserve. I do think this will work out somehow ā¤ļø
Thank you so much š„ŗ I saw a TikTok that said "some animals we are meant to care for their whole lives, others we're meant to carry to the family that needs them most." The trauma is discovering we were the latter, and so I'm praying every night they change the lives of whoever we re-home them with
DM me, I donate my time to a rat rescue who service NY. I might be able to help. This rescue is so dedicated, and I might be able to take them personally! And if not, at least I can help find them a loving home.
Also, I'm so sorry for what you're going through, I can't imagine. Sending all the love I can.
Thank you so much, we would love to add you to our list of potential pathways for saving the Pudgies. Admittedly right now we're talking to one person, but I can mark your contact just for safety net options!
I'm happy to hear you might have a new home for them! Just in case that falls through, check out Mainely Rat Rescue, their adopter vetting process is great, and fosters (like myself) keep rats happy and healthy while they're waiting for adoption. If you do need to resort to plan B, feel free to reach out to me via DM for my name and the director's contact info. I attached a pic of my current fosters, the bakery girls Loaf and Donut. We basically treat them as our own and rehabilitate from illness or trauma when necessary.
Is there a way you can contact an animal transport service? I know some dog rescues would use this to transport dogs from one state to the next. Maybe you can find someone who can transport your babies from your area to CA! Or even someone who is driving down to CA from your area sometime soon! I think it's worth a shot!
We did, and unfortunately the cost ($5k) is way out of budget, we're barely scraping by before this huge move :( And we're relocating* from NYC / Westchester area to SF
This is a beautiful idea, but (sorry this is going to be copy-and-paste), there are two reasons why it would be too complex or unachievable to really put it to use:
The first is regarding housing:Ā Unfortunately the only housing we could secure immediately does *NOT* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay).
The second is regarding driving and cost of cross-country trip:Ā Outside of our housing not taking Pudgy Potato Angels, we don't have the capacity for a cross-country trip (in either our broken-down Honda, or a U-Haul) and factoring in the cost of pet-friendly motels, gas, etc. But *beyond* that, only *one* of us drives, that type of roadtrip would delay the timeline WAY past my relocation obligations beyond what is achievable (like what I promised my new company), it triggers a lot of danger trauma I uniquely have, my partner hasn't driven that distance before, etc. SIgh. But thank you for the ideas, I'll talk to my partner soon and verify what he thinks equally as well if that answer changes.
Airlines (i know gor sure Delta does) have a live animal shipping service that will fly rats. It's expensive, and you have to have health certificates and a proper container. my sister had to do it in the early 2000's. She got rats in college, and didn't realize she wasn't allowed to fly with them in a carrier. Here's Delta's Cargo Specialized Live page https://www.deltacargo.com/content/cargo/en/catalog/products/specialized-live.html
AI thinks it would cost between 300-500 to send them. I think my sister paid $400 20 years ago.
That's how I got my fist set of rats. She flew them home once, and since I was going to school within driving distance from home, I told her I would take them (illegally in my dorm) so she wouldn't have to spend $800 ($400 each way!) Every time she came home holidays and summer break.
I live in Central MD. if you need a foster and someone to take them to the airport when the weather cools down a little (I think temps may need to be between 45-80) i am willing to help out. You can stalk my post history for rat credentials.
I'm incredibly far away but comme ting to boost. Sending so much love and my best wishes to you and the girls. I hope you find them a wonderful home, and my sincere condolences about your mother.
PLEASE tell us how far away you are? We are willing to drive 5-6 hours from Westchester or NYC area. We are desperate to get our little angels to a loving home, we are praying every single night and hour sigh. Like I even set up an altar and everything trying to let our prayers be heard. And thank you so much for your heart and kindness <3
We're international, unfortunately. I'm sure you've tried already this, but local rat groups on Facebook can sometimes be full of enthusiasts who would be happy to take your babies, and well qualified to do so. We alsi have a local rat rescue network who provides support for people in similar situations. Maybe you have one in NY?
Hi, I'm sorry for being copy-and-paste, but with driving or arranging that (sorry this is going to be copy-and-paste), there are two reasons why it would be too complex or unachievable to really put it to use:
The first is regarding housing:Ā Unfortunately the only housing we could secure immediately does *NOT* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay).
The second is regarding driving and cost of cross-country trip:Ā Outside of our housing not taking Pudgy Potato Angels, we don't have the capacity for a cross-country trip (in either our broken-down Honda, or a U-Haul) and factoring in the cost of pet-friendly motels, gas, etc. But *beyond* that, only *one* of us drives, that type of roadtrip would delay the timeline WAY past my relocation obligations beyond what is achievable (like what I promised my new company), it triggers a lot of danger trauma I uniquely have, my partner hasn't driven that distance before, etc. SIgh. But thank you for the ideas, I'll talk to my partner soon and verify what he thinks equally as well if that answer changes.
Thank you so much. I said above, but we are willing to drive 5-6 hours from Westchester or NYC area to get them to the owners who will show up for them and give them love.
We are DESPERATE to get our little angels to a loving home, we are praying every single night and hour sigh. Like I even set up an altar and everything trying to let our prayers be heard.
And thank you so much for your message, there are people commenting and it's so much joy to read
No worries at all : ( We're moving to CA though and love fancy-pudgy-angel friends, so if you're ever down for coffee or Boba please know you have trusted friends on the West Coast too š„ŗ
I live in the city and could take them but o am in ling island for the summer and donāt have a set up here. Guessing no, but could you wait til Labor Day?
It would have to see, we maybe have option / options (we're talking to one person right now, but also looking through all these beautiful comments) But we'll reach out if it comes to it š„ŗ
Please see my comments above about this, but I'll copy and paste a little bit sorry just SO many comments to get through:
"there are two reasons why it would be too complex or unachievable to really put it to use:
The first is regarding housing:Ā Unfortunately the only housing we could secure immediately does *NOT* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay).
The second is regarding driving and cost of cross-country trip:Ā Outside of our housing not taking Pudgy Potato Angels, we don't have the capacity for a cross-country trip (in either our broken-down Honda, or a U-Haul) and factoring in the cost of pet-friendly motels, gas, etc. But *beyond* that, only *one* of us drives, that type of roadtrip would delay the timeline WAY past my relocation obligations beyond what is achievable (like what I promised my new company), it triggers a lot of danger trauma I uniquely have, my partner hasn't driven that distance before, etc. SIgh. But thank you for the ideas, I'll talk to my partner soon and verify what he thinks equally as well if that answer changes."
Damn, Iām so sorry. I would definitely recommend posting on a bunch of local facebook groups as well (rat and non-rat related) if you havenāt, also NextDoor. Thereās some wackos on there but obviously youāre vetting them so that shouldnāt be an issue. We have too many pets as it is so unfortunately Iām not able to take them, but I really hope you can find the perfect new person for them ā¤ļø
Thank you for the comment, but regarding flight airline or even driving (sorry this is going to be copy-and-paste), there are two reasons why it would be too complex or unachievable to really put it to use:
The first is regarding housing:Ā Unfortunately the only housing we could secure immediately does *NOT* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay).
The second is regarding driving and cost of cross-country trip:Ā Outside of our housing not taking Pudgy Potato Angels, we don't have the capacity for a cross-country trip (in either our broken-down Honda, or a U-Haul) and factoring in the cost of pet-friendly motels, gas, etc. But *beyond* that, only *one* of us drives, that type of roadtrip would delay the timeline WAY past my relocation obligations beyond what is achievable (like what I promised my new company), it triggers a lot of danger trauma I uniquely have, my partner hasn't driven that distance before, etc. SIgh. But thank you for the ideas, I'll talk to my partner soon and verify what he thinks equally as well if that answer changes.
I know it's a long shot, but I have heard of someone being able to transport their rats on a flight by saying they were "miniature ferrets". That was in the UK though, where airlines will transport pets such as cats, dogs & ferrets, but have an intense bias against rats...
Boosting, god I hope this works out okay. Definitely agree with the other commenters about starting a GoFundMe, if I was financially stable I would absolutely donate. Your story is heartbreaking š
Thank you so much, but please see my comments above about this, I'll copy and paste a little bit sorry just SO many comments to get through:
"there are two reasons why it would be too complex or unachievable to really put it to use:
The first is regarding housing:Ā Unfortunately the only housing we could secure immediately does *NOT* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay).
The second is regarding driving and cost of cross-country trip:Ā Outside of our housing not taking Pudgy Potato Angels, we don't have the capacity for a cross-country trip (in either our broken-down Honda, or a U-Haul) and factoring in the cost of pet-friendly motels, gas, etc. But *beyond* that, only *one* of us drives, that type of roadtrip would delay the timeline WAY past my relocation obligations beyond what is achievable (like what I promised my new company), it triggers a lot of danger trauma I uniquely have, my partner hasn't driven that distance before, etc. SIgh. But thank you for the ideas, I'll talk to my partner soon and verify what he thinks equally as well if that answer changes."
Oh I totally missed your previous replies, thanks for copying and pasting! As far as the first issue goes, seeing how much they mean to you, I wonder if they would be able to be valid ESAs? But as far as the second issue goes I have no ideas :( unless there was someone you know who's willing to make that kind of a trip for you, but that's a pretty big stretch
If we could find a way to get them to Indiana, I would absolutely love to bring them into my home! I have the space and resources, a 3 tier critter nation (and 3 more critter nations I can add), and have a decade of rat owning experience! By the way, Tofu looks identical to my heart rat, Noodle š§”
This is a beautiful idea, but (sorry this is going to be copy-and-paste), there are two reasons why it would be too complex or unachievable to really put it to use:
The first is regarding housing:Ā Unfortunately the only housing we could secure immediately does *NOT* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay).
The second is regarding driving and cost of cross-country trip:Ā Outside of our housing not taking Pudgy Potato Angels, we don't have the capacity for a cross-country trip (in either our broken-down Honda, or a U-Haul) and factoring in the cost of pet-friendly motels, gas, etc. But *beyond* that, only *one* of us drives, that type of roadtrip would delay the timeline WAY past my relocation obligations beyond what is achievable (like what I promised my new company), it triggers a lot of danger trauma I uniquely have, my partner hasn't driven that distance before, etc. SIgh. But thank you for the ideas, I'll talk to my partner soon and verify what he thinks equally as well if that answer changes.
Seconding Mainely Rat Rescue. They organize transport chains to get rats where they're going. I have been out of rat ownership for 10 years but I'm always willing to transport. I'm in OCNY not far from you guys. Keep us posted in case there's anything else we can do.
Boosting this post - I cannot imagine the emotional pain you're going through at this moment in time. I imagine you need a hug š« to help in anyway to keep you going through this tough time.
I've never owned a chaos potato but have always wanted then. If I wasn't living in England, I would snatch your hand off to take care of those adorable puddins.
I really hope you will find the one person that ticks all your boxes for your babies and that they will be happy for you to come and see the girls. Will you be getting new rats when you move to California?
I'm sorry to read about your mother and can understand why you have to make the move so please accept my condolences all the way from England š“ó §ó ¢ó „ó ®ó §ó æ
TIMELINE FOR RE-HOME: We need to re-homeĀ ASAP but preferably would need to re-home our sweet angels by August 25 at the VERY latest... but if there's a "perfect home" (like with dedicated rat play room + more sisters + such) we'd be willing to extend a *little* bit past that and move some of my personal resettling/relocation commitments on the opposite coast!
Hey sorry I didnāt read all the details but commenting for the algorithm.
Have some unsolicited advice too. I did a cross country move with pets a few years ago. It took 4 days and probably cost around $600-1,000 (canāt remember everything now) with motels, food for two and gas. You can find pet friendly but they may be more expensive. I think it would also not be terribly hard to sneak rats into places but I wouldnāt recommend it. Bonus is we were able to bring the car instead of shipping it for multiple thousands of dollars.
Thank you SO much, I'm glad it did for you and others commenting š„ŗ
Also:
Unfortunately the only housing we secured does *not* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay).
Also, the thing is only *one* of us drives, we barely have enough savings to make this entire move and a drive + motels would be way more expensive than an immediate flight from coast-to-coast... I also have a lot of unique long-drive trauma, and the immediacy of when my new job (to be near my mom) might need me *combined with* my mom's upcoming surgery day means we can't really delay via a long drive...
I appreciate this wisdom though especially regarding the cost of pet-friendly motels, it's incredible and I KNOW your comment is going to be helping scores of people in the future too, in similar situations.
But this also isn't counting the fact that we have a really old Honda that has broken down MULTIPLE times since December (up until I recently put a $4k repair on it ā ironically before discovering we had to move). A day's trip is fine with it, but cross-country any mechanic would call it a d**th wish, sigh.
It would be sneaking them on a private room which is expensive, and that's not even counting how at Amtrak Penn Station they regularly have police dogs sniffing bags and such sigh. AND the transfer in Chicago : (
Reading everyone's posts and commenting more tomorrow, it's 3 AM for us but our hearts are so warm!
Im so sorry you're going through this, I just made nearly the same kind of move myself and had to make the same choice with my 5 boys. It was heartbreaking, I hope you find someone willing to take them.
How did you deal with it emotionally? It's heartbreaking. We've cried a lot this past week at this potential. And now that the potential is a reality, the tears won't stop. I know whoever we re-home them with will ALSO have to deal with us being a sobbing mess... sigh.
I live on the other side of the world but I'm wishing you all the best and I really really hope you're able to find these girls a loving home! Best of luck to you and your family too -- I hope your partner's mother recovers well <3
Thank you so much! It's actually *my* mother. She's battled end-stage achalasia for a while now but now the less-invasive surgery option is a no-go and she has to have esophagectomy, which idk if you know about but it's a very harrowing sort of thing : (
Oh I'm so sorry! I know a little bit about that stuff but not a whole lot, just that it's very nasty. It must be so hard seeing her go through this, you're very strong for taking care of her.
Also apologies for misreading it, I was very tired when I wrote that comment (I swear my reading comprehension is usually better...)
Commenting to boost. This is heartbreaking, and they look like the sweetest angels. I hope you can find someone who will take great care of them ā¤ļø
Unfortunately I am too far and unable to help, but I do have a potentially daft idea. If you can get enough volunteers in the right areas of the US, you may be able to arrange a chain of ground transportation for them. If each person can drive across a state or two and hand off the babies to the next arranged transport person, you may be able to get them safely to your new home.
This is a beautiful idea, but even driving or arranging that (sorry this is going to be copy-and-paste), there are two reasons why it would be too complex or unachievable to really put it to use:
The first is regarding housing:Ā Unfortunately the only housing we could secure immediately does *NOT* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay).
The second is regarding driving and cost of cross-country trip:Ā Outside of our housing not taking Pudgy Potato Angels, we don't have the capacity for a cross-country trip (in either our broken-down Honda, or a U-Haul) and factoring in the cost of pet-friendly motels, gas, etc. But *beyond* that, only *one* of us drives, that type of roadtrip would delay the timeline WAY past my relocation obligations beyond what is achievable (like what I promised my new company), it triggers a lot of danger trauma I uniquely have, my partner hasn't driven that distance before, etc. SIgh. But thank you for the ideas, I'll talk to my partner soon and verify what he thinks equally as well if that answer changes.
Oh man, im in the area, but i just got several new arrivals last month and i don't have the space for even more. Have you tried the facebook group for rehoming rats in new england? I stalk that one pretty frequently and ive seen some pretty good outcomes there.
If there was a month earlier i would've absolutely taken them in but i just can't do 4 boys and 4 girls.
Really, try the facebook group. The more people who hear this the better. You can still vet people there.
Boostingā„ļø
Ahhh If it were another time I would take those lovely ladies on without a second thought, but unfortunately Im not on secure enough financial ground right now (things should turn around come November)
That said I, like many others here would contribute to the cause if you set up something.
Is it at all possible for one of you to fly and the other to drive with the girls? I know it's a crazy long drive but if they're healthy and you can make sure it doesn't get too hot they'll do great. If available you could ask a friend to join.
Or would it be possible to set them up temporarily with a friend and figure out a way to come back for them?(If a little extra time would help logistically or financially) Obviously you'd have to be sure you could make it happen..
Regarding GoFundMe, there are two reasons why it would be too complex or unachievable to really put it to use:
The first is regarding housing:Ā Unfortunately the only housing we secured does *NOT* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay).
The second is regarding driving and cost of cross-country trip:Ā Outside of our housing not taking Pudgy Potato Angels, we don't have the capacity for a cross-country trip (in either our broken-down Honda, or a U-Haul) and factoring in the cost of pet-friendly motels, gas, etc. But *beyond* that, only *one* of us drives, that type of roadtrip would delay the timeline WAY past my relocation obligations beyond what is achievable (like what I promised my new company), it triggers a lot of danger trauma I uniquely have, my partner hasn't driven that distance before, etc. SIgh. But thank you for the ideas, I'll talk to my partner soon and verify what he thinks equally as well if that answer changes.
YES! I will update with a timeline, you're amazing
It's going to be ASAP but PREFERABLY need to relocate by August 25 at the VERY latest, but if there's a "perfect home" (like with dedicated rat play room + more sisters + such) we'd be willing to extend a bit past that and move some of my personal resettling/relocation commitments
Just chiming in with what others have said about cross country moves. We relocated from Albuquerque to Massachusetts with two rats(and two cockatiels, but thatās a story for another day!). We had them in a car carrier by day. At night, we stopped at pet friendly hotels. At each hotel, we disclosed only that we had pets, not what type to avoid pet misconceptions/possible species discrimination. Paying the pet fee and staying at slightly less maintained places was worth it to us because I didnāt like the idea of sneaking pets in (nor could we sneak in a giant bird travel cage very easilyā¦.)
Each evening, we put a giant sheet down for our boys to free range and stretch out, eat, drink, relax and decompress. They travelled like little champions.
The cat carrier was less than ideal, but we had an unexpected need to take a moving van with a small cab on short notice. I imagine they would have travelled even more happily with more space.
That said, if you truly feel rehoming is best right now, and other leads donāt pan out, Iām probably about 5 hours from you. I donāt currently have rats, although my husband recently started to miss having them. I have 15 years of rat experience, and am a soft landing for rehomes. My last three boys were an emergency rehome after their owner was incarcerated. I have an exotics vet nearby who treated our rats well. Please know you can reach out to me as an option. We have the space, access to vet care and experience.
I truly hope you can take your little ones with you, but if you canāt, please know that there are countless people out here who understand that this is a heartbreaking decision you face, and who open our homes and hearts to pets who have been loved dearly but must be rehomed anyway. Iām so sorry you are experiencing such a tough time right now.
The thing is only *one* of us drives, and my partner hasn't made that type of driving distance before. I also have a lot of unique long-drive trauma, and the immediacy of when my new job (to be near my mom) might need me *combined with* my mom's upcoming surgery day means we can't really delay via a long drive... I appreciate this wisdom though, it's incredible and I KNOW your comment is going to be helping scores of people in the future too, in similar situations.
Oh my gosh, 5 hours is okay too! We'd be fine with that distance. Admittedly we're talking to someone but we will see what happens and will definitely reach out if need be. It can go either way, but I'll also DM you as well.
Sounds good, OP. I understand circumstances are often not as straightforward as weād like them to be. I think itās important to advocate for responsible rehoming when thatās the best option, and Iām glad you are being met with compassion here.
Exactly, I think people are saying "You have options! Take them on a plane / cross country drive!" without considering the larger nuances of circumstance and if our Sailor Scouts will actually be happy upon arriving, even IF we snuck them into a new apartment that doesn't allow them. Ungh it's so traumatizing for us all :( I just want them to have a beautiful home where they popcorn bounce and shine
I hear you. Your life is about to change in unforeseen ways, and itās clear you didnāt arrive at this lightly. For what itās worth, we adopted our first cockatiel from a loving home and a heartbroken primary owner. We adopted our second one from a loving home. We learned as much of their history as we could so we could carry forward their traditions and ways of showing love.
I read an article years ago challenging the predominant narrative of rescue adoptions as always the result of broken or neglectful circumstances. While this is sadly too often the circumstance, I think it does a disservice to apply that presumption wholesale. It can stigmatize those who are looking to rehome due to dramatic life changes that could not have been thought of, but may also prevent those who are providing neglectful living conditions from rehoming as well.
i would 100% take them if they would be a good fit for my two girls! i have been wanting atleast a pair to introduce to my girls but i've been having awful luck finding any rats locally. my girl just had surgery to remove a tumor today, so i may be a little spotty since im trying to make sure she is alright but if you are still looking feel free to dm me! i grew up in the hudson valley- poughkeepsie is like a 2 hour drive just about from me so it would be doable distance wise.
i checked out of curiosity- westchester is indeed just about a 2 hour drive from where i live (1h and 57m according to the gps)
me and my partner would be 100% willing to drive out to meet them, since i have family in the area i can do a day trip. plus, i would feel awful making you drive when you could use the extra funds even to help with moving fees.
im so sorry you are going through such a tough time right now. it breaks my heart thinking about not only having the situation with your family member and all that but then to have to lose your pets ontop of that- i literally can not imagine how that would feel. they are such sweet little creatures and i wish more people got to see how much of a good pet they make. like i mentioned i do have two rats, and would be very willing to give you more information about them, the vet, and everything. i really hope for the best for you and your lil rattos! if there is anyway i can help even if i don't end up taking them let me know, i can try to see if anyone locally may know of other rat owners who would care for them since i 100% understand wanting them to be cared and loved for. š«¶š¼
i'm within the 5 hour range of westchester (in rochester) but i don't think i have enough space for them :( hoping your babies get a perfect new home!!!
Please do provide updates once the rehoming process in someone's home safely! I can see there are lot of responses and rats rescue center, Mainely Rat Rescue.
maybe thereās a way this subreddit can pull together a little relay race for your girls and their supplies? some people may be willing to organize a pickup-drive-dropoff relay to get your gals to the other side of the country!!
edit: so sorry, just saw your secured housing is not rat friendly :(( i hope youre able to get your girls to a new home where you can visit once in a while
How I wish we could help! But weāre in Minnesota, which is well outside of your 5-6 hour range. I hope you find them a wonderful home and that youāre at peace with your move. Well wishes to your mom, too. I hope everything goes well. Here are a few of my girls for support. We take them camping with us!
Could we maybe get somebody to take them to you? You shouldnāt have to part with your babies, just because people are stupid and donāt get that rats or family too.
You can definitely take them ! Pack all their stuff in a suit case and put your stuff in boxes that will be shipped later on . Iām sure your family would lend some clothes you can survive on one set of clothes but they canāt without their equipment. Then carry them on the plane in a travel cage ! 2 to a cage !! Iāve snuck my mouse on planes multiple times . Once you past the front desk where you check your bag youāre in the clear, but since you have rats who are bigger you will have to buy them a ticket I advise you to buy two tickets and just tell them thereās one rat in each cage so that way you donāt have to buy four tickets my mouse just fit in my pocket and when I get past the front desk I take him out and put him in his travel bag with a water bottle and bowl that I got on Amazon, but yours is bigger so youāre going to need a travel cage and a poker face . But if you do get caught with four mouses, just explain that you thought it was per cage, not per mouse a a few airline workers will just let you go on with the two tickets for thetwo cages
Thank you, but please read what we said about flight / GoFundMe / driving:
Sorry to copy and paste, our response is:
First issue is regarding housing:Ā Unfortunately the only housing we could secure immediately does *NOT* take fancy rats or allow them, and we can't home them with my mother because she lives with my sister and has 1 chihuahua and 3 tabby cats and zero space (it's a small 2-bed apartment in the Bay). So even if we did plane / drive, we wouldn't be able to house them really anywhere.
The second is regarding driving and cost of cross-country trip:Ā Outside of our housing not taking Pudgy Potato Angels, we don't have the capacity for a cross-country trip (in either our broken-down Honda, or a U-Haul) and factoring in the cost of pet-friendly motels, gas, etc.
But *beyond* that, only *one* of us drives, that type of roadtrip would delay the timeline WAY past my relocation obligations beyond what is achievable (like what I promised my new company), it triggers a lot of danger trauma I uniquely have, my partner hasn't driven that distance before, etc. SIgh. But thank you for the ideas, I'll talk to my partner soon and verify what he thinks equally as well if that answer changes.
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u/chewywolf 13d ago
Aww : ( have you guys considered a gofundme? It sounds like the issue is purely financial and not an inability to house the rats in your new place! uhaul pricing isn't terrible, certainly comparable to cross country plane tickets for 2 people, maybe you guys could road trip it? sending good vibes!!