Any Rat Rescue is dedicated to the memory of Gus and Walter, the first rescue rats of original rescue director Therese Hitesman, who now lives in Washington state. Someone had set two male rats free in a Glendale, Arizona park and Therese knew they would not have the instincts needed to survive. She persisted through several monsoon showers, ultimately capturing the boys and moving them safely to her home.
A group of local pet rat owners had met through an online forum for rat owners and, at Therese’s urging, ultimately decided to formalize efforts to find homes for unwanted pet rats. The group of friends joined together to form Any Rat Rescue in the spring of 2004.
Any Rat Rescue (ARR) operates as a network of foster homes throughout the Valley. ARR is incorporated in the State of Arizona and is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The rescue, which is dedicated to finding loving, forever homes for any rat in need, now facilitates adoptions for more than 150 pet rats per year.
Latest news
Any Rat Rescue selected as charity recipient for 2023 Arizona Fur Con
October 13-15, 2023, Mesa Convention Center
Arizona Fur Con is a furry-related, family-friendly convention, founded in 2013 and designed for fans from anthropomorphic communities and costume enthusiasts to gather for a weekend each fall. Fans socialize, compete in masquerades and dance competitions, attend themed cafes, meet fandom guests and attend several panels and workshops throughout the weekend. Games can be found in the gamer room, the dealer’s den provides shopping, and fans can experience new performances, art and other fantastic creations brought to life by their community.
This year, convention organizers Monkey Paw Entertainment have selected Any Rat Rescue as the event’s charity recipient. The rescue will be on site during the event and will receive proceeds from two charity auctions held during the weekend. For more information, visit www.arizonafurcon.com
Any Rat Rescue, a PACC911 member, is a 501(c)(3) organization, incorporated in the State of Arizona in 2004 and dedicated to finding loving, forever homes for any pet rat in need. Visit them at https://anyratrescue.org
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One Last Rat
by Any Rat Rescue Director Jenna Lillibridge
June 23, 2023
We have noticed a recent trend in families contacting us to surrender their remaining older rat after the others have passed. Regrettably, they’ve become convinced that keeping their remaining furry friend at home alone is cruel and they do not wish to get more rats.
We disagree. We know that rats are mentally and physically healthier with companions, especially during their first year. However, they are incredibly “in the moment” and adaptable. Most rats respond perfectly well to living their remaining time in their home as solo rats.
Is discarding them to the unknown really in their best interests? They will go through quarantine alone, in a completely different home and cage. They will wait at a foster home for adoption, although most adopters do not want a pet who will die soon.
There is no guarantee a rat will get along with a new friend at the rescue or at an adopter’s house; if or when that may happen.
Rarely, a rat may show signs or grieving, and Any Rat Rescue will be happy to discuss options. In our opinion, the best thing for your last rat, like any family member, is staying in their home where they are most known and loved.
(Cute rats snuggle in a hammock. Photo by Noah Benson.)
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Click here to read 2022, issue V. Meet Alfred, and read other rattie stories submitted by readers like you!
