Dog has an emotional support RAT

[@MelonCakeys]

THE TINY BANDANA

[@GirlWithTheDogs]

I KNOW RIGHT

[@chaliboy-wf7ol]

@@GirlWithTheDogs I KNOW RIGHT?????

[@Nixxori]

@@chaliboy-wf7ol I KNOW RIGHT???????????????????????????

[@TopazFire15]

TINY BANDANA!!!!!!!!!!!

[@puppydogs68]

@@Nixxori I KNOW RIGHT??????????????????????????????????????

[@Aburner1109]

As an emotional support rat myself, I appreciate the recognition of our craft.

[@robotoguts3165]

Thanks for all you do ❤

[@herobrine1847]

You as an emotional support rat needs an emotional support mouse. The emotional support mouse needs an emotional support snail. The emotional support snail needs an emotional support spider. The emotional support spider needs an emotional support ant. The emotional support ant needs an emotional support aphid. The emotional support aphid needs an emotional support E. coli bacterium. The emotional support E. coli bacterium needs an emotional support coronavirus. The emotional support coronavirus needs an emotional support atom. The emotional support atom needs an emotional support proton. The emotional support proton needs an emotional support quark.

[@Crobat7269]

@@herobrine1847 some spiders adopt frogs. The frogs eat the bugs that would eat the eggs and webs of the spider, and the spider becomes a bodyguard for the frog

[@AndySaenz]

Lmao 😂

[@user-CB69]

Wtf

[@slamshift6927]

Even at his most scared, he still seemed more composed than half the huskies on this channel lol

[@rowbot5555]

The only kind of composed they're doing is the composing of the song of their people

[@slenderslayer8203]

To be fair, every breed has a different way of showing how stressed they are. The song of their people is a Husky's first jumping point.

[@kiamaria331]

I don't think the huskies are even scared, just displeased and loud and dramatic 🤣

[@elektrastone7327]

I thought this was an Australian shepherd

[@shalinpipada3663]

husky composed ur funny mate xD

[@everlastingdragon4520]

I've heard of emotional support pets. I've never heard of emotional support pets for other pets. I love this.

[@chucklebutt4470]

Cheetahs are really anxious animals so some zoos give them emotional support dogs!

[@Ambipie]

Some dogs need emotional support dogs after their siblings pass

[@morganqorishchi8181]

My friend's cat needed emotional support after her beloved dog sister, who she'd known all her life, died. So my friend got a dog from the shelter who needed a home and is of the same breed as the original dog, and the cat loves him dearly. She no longer freaks out when her owner has to leave for work and has stopped stress behaviors like grooming patches of herself until she goes bald. Just having him around helps a lot.

[@Unknownrandomdude]

@@morganqorishchi8181 What was the original breed?

[@KCCAT5]

That's a first for me too

[@disneydork100]

I could hear Sully whining and whimpering while Benny was getting groomed!!! He was worried for his buddy!!!! My heart!!!!!!!!

[@kdrgaming3344]

I'm just now realizing how badly I need an emotional support rat.

[@jdgenjry]

SAME

[@EctoBabble]

You always have to get two or more or rats will get depressed!

[@pastelnut027]

I wouldn’t be able to do it with their short life spans, I’d get too attached.

[@minetruly]

@@pastelnut027 This is definitely a problem. It helps to keep about 3 rats at a time, so when one dies, the others can comfort you and then welcome the successor when you're ready to adopt again. Since rats are very social animals, keeping several is ideal for them.

[@pastelnut027]

@@minetruly Not a bad idea. I’d love to get rats at some point, but for now I’m not ready.

[@MMumbles]

I had rats in college. They actually do make fantastic emotional support animals. They love to cuddle and don't smell nearly as bad as hamsters. And they don't constantly try to die.

[@transformsupportedaccommod553]

there are rodents. they responsible for the black death

[@sanddry738]

Yeah unfortunately they have very short lifespans :( But if you can handle that they’re great pets

[@KL-ol8xf]

Hamsters don’t even have any smell though. If you don’t clean their bedding enough then maybe that.

[@misseselise3864]

i swear hamsters are born only to die. i had one as a kid and i only played with her while sitting down bc she constantly would bite my fingers so i would let my guard down so she could jump

[@Jurarigo]

In that last point they actually win against cats, who are in a perpetual race to unalive themselves in the stupidest ways.

[@mrzyx]

You know you've made it when your pet has a pet.

[@PaulAllen786]

❤

[@antman7673]

Petception. Now the rat needs a pet as well,

[@pokemongurlz]

It's like neopets. Neopets have Petpets and Petpets have Petpetpets :')

[@CanidRose]

I was gonna say! Neopets was onto something there lol @@pokemongurlz

[@kurgans]

​@@antman7673the dog is the rat's pet judging by the intelligence gap

[@what5579]

My dad had a terrifying experience with rats when he was a kid. My sister bought a rat when she was an adult, she named her Rosey, she was so sweet and calm. Dad was not a fan but he admitted she was sweet. My sister and niece have had several rats over the years and my dad has actually fallen in love with them! He will actually hold them and when the last one passed he actually cried because he was going to miss them. They are wonderful animals.

[@elenalatici9568]

You didn't tell us about the terrifying experience.. I'm assuming the rats weren't pets.

[@what5579]

@@elenalatici9568 sorry, no they were not his pets and a pack of them chased him when he was like 8.

[@ghostface490]

​@@what5579 Damn, I don't think I've ever heard of someone getting jumped by a pack of rats. That sounds interesting but also terrifying.

[@Hyperoptix]

@@ghostface490 Dude playing Dishonored in real life lmao

[@BryanOfKrypton]

Was your dad Bloodsport?

[@bot2510dx]

Recommending a rat as a pet is a difficult thing. Yes, they're adorable, smart, socially caring and loving but the downside is the short life span you mentioned. In the time of 2-3 years a rat becomes a superb friend and you can feel the love this tiny creature gives you. As a owner of - summed up- 11 rats in my life it was heartbreaking every time when one of my little fellows went to rat heaven. Really, who wants to see a grown up man like me cry like a baby?

[@SaphiraTessa]

I also own rats and the other day I heard a fellow rat owner say: "they're here for a good time, not a long time". You're their whole life and are grateful for everything you do for them. I lost many pets, including two rats (don't have rats for a long time yet) and in some ways I know I can handle it better each time.

[@SixArmedSweater]

I still miss my three every day. 💕🐀

[@malloryg4251]

You are so right. I hate that they live for such a short amount of time! They are such special little creatures and you become so attached to them. Saying goodbye is heartbreaking.

[@MrSchumisingh]

I recently lost our little robosky dwarf hamster and even though they’re not as friendly as rats it was so very sad to say good bye. So yes, rodents are very lovable pets but their short lifespans are something to take into consideration

[@skybug1706]

it's been well over a decade and I still miss and think fondly of my rat. he was an exceptionally sweet and good boy, and would squeak and dance around if he heard popcorn popping. he'd sit in your lap for a whole movie and just snuggle. and if you held him up to your nose and said kiss he'd kiss the tip of your nose! sweet boy. we buried him in a little wood cigar box within a tree hollow.

[@happypillshelp]

I literally cannot handle how cute this is. My pupils have changed into heart shapes

[@ashyamivelitii1305]

Oh Gosh,,,mine too,,,,

[@TBone-bz9mp]

So have mine… OH GOD THE PAIN!!!!

[@eliminator173]

@@TBone-bz9mp lmao

[@doomfloof101]

SAME.

[@ozvoid1245]

You might want to get that checked by a doctor.

[@scorchedroseproductions3266]

I used to have a pet rat named Jamie. She was such a sweet little girl and would sit on my pregnant belly. And she always made happy sounds when my son would kick. After he was born, she would escape her cage to cuddle up with him in his bassinet. She never bit him and always gave him kisses. We miss her.

[@GamerGrovyle]

❤❤❤

[@MrEvan312]

How nice of you guys to carry her baby to term for her!

[@Amoogus]

Couldn't imagine having a pet rat. I had ferrets and they don't live nearly long enough, especially with their unfortunate health problems. Rats unfortunately die even sooner. I suppose on one hand, you can give them the absolute best life ever, but on the other. It's only a couple years at best. I miss those lil fellas, I still remember feeding my lil guy sugar water when he got sick.

[@spacerspud4816]

❤

[@marielahnum8824]

I love it so much that a big puppy has a little emotional support rat. And that you are so sweet for letting Benny come along. Not everybody would do that. It shows you have a sweet heart.

[@SpaceTravel1776]

Both should be allowed to fly on planes. Stop it.

[@ussxrequin]

@@SpaceTravel1776 Huh?

[@Omnihilo]

@@SpaceTravel1776 ???

[@SpaceTravel1776]

@@ussxrequin If the dog can be a legal emotional support animal and be allowed on a plane, the rat should be able to come too, along with any other other subset of emotional support animals. For example, if the rat had an emotional support animal, like a tiny lizard, all three should be allowed on airplanes as an “emotional support group.” Like this comment if you agree.

[@NightshadeGoddess]

@@SpaceTravel1776 i mean ... what does that have to do with the video? Nobody talked about planes. Besides, I'm almost 100% certain that that dog would not survive air travel since he's so nervous on the ground already.

[@EnchantedwithPoodles]

That tiny bandana is so stinkin' cute! I bet the pets' parents flipped when they saw it... Well done, as always.

[@milesromo1328]

@Pinko Slink edgy. Touch some grass.

[@_JOMOMA]

@Pinko Slink pretty edgy dude. Get some Sun and hydrate.

[@callumduffy1627]

@Pinko Slink you better get a nail file and smooth down those edges.

[@r3ignman735]

@Pinko Slink Seems like living life on the edge has finally caught up to you. Chill, get some sun.

[@impracticalmondoduke]

@Pinko Slink how unique and unlike the others you are lmao, edgy ass individuality complex

[@essi4341]

Our dog is scared of most other dogs but loves rabbits, she wants to lick them and them to play with her and it's so precious 🥺❤️

[@petradegroot3578]

🥰🥰

[@Chase-jc7rx]

How big is your dog because mine was to big to play with rabbits but did anyways and killed a bunny and our other dog killed a rabbit

[@saltfarmer4008]

Doggo likes booners 🤣🥰🐇🐇

[@Voidi-Void]

@@saltfarmer4008 please rephrase that.

[@MossMothMyBeloved]

@@saltfarmer4008 ?!?!

[@larissawilson2337]

How lovely that the owners recognized the anxiety and responded with the beautiful Benny. Just loved the tiny bandana too!

[@lilacheart_]

it is cute, but unfortunately they’re sacrificing benny’s care. he should never be bathed unless needed and directed by a vet, and NEEDS at least one other rat to live with.

[@cameronschyuder9034]

@@lilacheart_well, we don’t know whether there’s another rat at home that didn’t tag along.

[@lilacheart_]

@@cameronschyuder9034 possible, but given how he’s talked about, unlikely in my opinion

[@choconutsclips1488]

you can hear him whining for benny when benny is getting his bath. so adorable

[@nekkidnora]

Sitting here with my dog lying on my feet, a rat on her back and another being licked between her paws, and I was not expecting to see my two favourite pets on the same screen today. And Benny looks SO good, look at his lushious fur! Is he a Rex mix? He has a certain thickness to his fur that's uncommon!

[@charbieking8838]

Love this 😍😍😍

[@TheEnderKitty1]

Im not sure but my aussie has thick fur just like this

[@atreyu4ws]

He looks like a velveteen to me.

[@xhannahmcintosh]

@@TheEnderKitty1 she’s talking about the rat, not the dog lol

[@tenbearsreeftank5705]

I can only imagine where you're being licked by your animals

[@christinawolfe4255]

When I was a kid, we had 12 rats. Guy in the pet store assured my parents that both rats were male and would get along just fine because they were already friends, so we took them home and named them Ben and Bernie. After a few weeks, Bernie became Berniece when she produced 10 fine babies. They were all such nice rats.

[@Nikki-tx6kh]

There's a vet show in the BBC where that happen too, except with bunnies and they were told they were girls. They ended up with like three/ four more bunnies.

[@moonsigil]

how did you stop the issue from multiplying? did you get all the males neutered?

[@christinawolfe4255]

@@moonsigil we separated them. Berniece and the female babies in one huge cage, the male babies in another huge cage, and Ben in his own slightly smaller cage.

[@RubyLikeWhoa]

We had the same experience with hamsters. Left the pet store with 2 that were supposed to both be female, ended up with 11.

[@ingensubera8099]

how do people misgender their rats so poorly, lmao male rats are extremely easy to identify. that pet store dude knew nothing

[@desubysnusnu]

Woman: "I love animals in every form & size" The tapeworm in my intestine: aww ❤

[@SilverbackJellybottom]

Me inside the tapeworm: 😊

[@Arandomshark]

@@SilverbackJellybottom THE WHAT.

[@tuscansun2320]

@@SilverbackJellybottomit’s tapeworms all the way down!

[@MrCarcass1978]

🤡

[@brittdei]

How is this not a children’s book?! This is the sweetest duo ever OMG. Love this, look at the brotherly love. 🥹🥹❤️❤️

[@steveshay5364]

right? I’d read that to my dog for sure

[@cq9882]

Great Idea. 🐶🐀💗🇦🇺

[@GodsArtGallery111]

Yes!!! 😭🥰❤️

[@habbit9386]

​@@bibianaguadalupeislasherre9880I doubt it

[@wattie92]

so true @@bibianaguadalupeislasherre9880

[@bear4butch]

it makes me so happy that you're talking about rats in such a positive light, they're such wonderful creatures that everyone demonizes for no reason!

[@galacticbutterfly5590]

For no good reason at all

[@najah7781]

Rats carry and transmit almost every diseaso possible.. definitely demonized for a very good reason. Clean pet rats are different though.

[@Anonymoose345]

Tbh rats ate my moms wire harness in her car soooooo

[@galacticbutterfly5590]

@@Anonymoose345 lol ok the wild ones could cause a bit of chaos .... and they where a huge key part in the plague as well... but that's all in the past 😁

[@baseddepartment6606]

some of them chewed my clothes bruh

[@matleenamyntti3436]

Curious: Is Benny specifically chosen and trained to be an emotional support rat, or did Sully and Benny just live in the same household and the owners noticed that Benny helped calming down Sully?

[@nataliemarshall7158]

I want to know that too, I think it’s fascinating

[@iosoi3145]

Their humans need to let us know this! Along with regular Sully & Benny updates. So cute how Sully really focuses in on Benny. That bandana though 😍

[@rebeccahicks2392]

My guess would be on the second just because a rat (because of their size) is an odd choice to be specifically chosen for this.

[@lilyhawthorne1196]

Perhaps one of the owners had Benny as an esa and noticed he had a similar effect on sully

[@themallimalli]

Like the comment stated above me it's probably just that they noticed that the dog was calmer with the little rattle around 😁 One of my cats is calmer when my big Rottweiler mix is around so when the cat has to go to the vet he gets to have his big emotional support dog with him 😂

[@kennithchapman9689]

When I seen the words emotional support rat for the dog I burst out laughing. But I got to admit the two of them together are just too damn cute. I'm a believer now 🙂

[@Syddddddddd12345]

Oh… my… gosh… this is the cutest pair I’ve ever seen! An emotional support rat! That is adorable! The dog is also so beautiful!!!

[@mas8705]

The doggo really does care for his little buddy from the amount of whimpering in the background while he was getting cleaned up. What a lovely relationship the two have.

[@purpletalons7682]

We had an accidental rat family, 12 in all. We raised them from birth to death. I still tear up thinking about them. One day soon I might be emotionally ready for 2 more potatoes to love.

[@lindseylindsey9200]

What was the accident

[@alex_bee_kind]

@@lindseylindsey9200 most likely the rat accidentally got pregnant, which was not intended

[@ceopet]

AS A RAT OWNER I AM SO TICKLED TO SEE THIS too freaking cute!

[@LB-ge8ih]

Funny, my response was a little less tickled. I worry about people seeing videos like this and thinking they can bring a rat home to play with their dog, or thinking they should be giving their pet rats baths (which actually is not advised). I mean, seeing the dog with the rat is cute, but it really needs a “don’t try this at home” advisory. And that she mentioned getting rats from breeders, but neglected to advise adopting rats from rescues was a bit disappointing, but this isn’t a rat-specialty channel, so I can cut her some slack…

[@dragonsember]

Same i have 3 rats and it's good to see them getting some positive rep. They're sweet and loving pets.

[@dawnadriana1764]

I'm such a wimp when it comes to animals, and admire how you combine strong and assertive with loving and caring. My Burmese cat has me wrapped around her perfectly manicured paw, and all she has to do is sniff disdainfully at her food that I go running to get another flavor. So I am in total awe of you! Love from Oregon... xoxo.

[@IamSureAndWhatAboutY]

i would do the same, but the other flavor would be hunger.

[@dawnadriana1764]

@@IamSureAndWhatAboutY LOL 😂

[@bananasmatter1321]

Have children

[@dawnadriana1764]

@@bananasmatter1321 I did.

[@doreenwatson-read]

you sound like my sister Dawn lol

[@tokitobe2450]

I'm so thrilled to see this! Rats are easily the MOST affectionate pets I've ever had and should be kept in pairs/multiples with other ratties. Their vet bills can be pricey (thousands of dollars) and often only specialists can spay or neuter them. So glad to see you treat rats with kindness too. You'd be shocked how many *rude* cat and dog owners are lovely to their own pets' species but absolutely callous and disgraceful toward fancy rats, which are in my view at least equal or better behaved than many mainstream pets. So lovely to see Solly & Benny's bond.

[@Thatonedude227]

Yeah rats are basically tiny dogs, tbh. I love them

[@ArmednotTriggered]

Eh, people hate anything they can't understand. I'm a snake owner and the amount of "I would stomp your snake" comments or something to that degree are pretty normal. You get used to it, even if it is frustrating. I've gotten use to retorting that I don't want anyone at my house who is going to be rude to my animals anyway. It usually shuts them up..

[@katbairwell]

I will never understand the whole "cat or dog person" mentality. I love all animals and would have everything from Isopods, a few snakes, a Tegu, all of the cats and dogs, rabbits, rats, horses and donkeys, pretty much any pet animal would be welcome in my family! Thank you for sharing your experience with keeping fancy rats (I have such a soft spot for the Dumbo types)!

[@crowleysgirl3257]

I had a pair of sister rats as a kids. The only medical expense I remember was get Jadzia's teeth trimmed a couple of times. They had chew sticks and other stuff but for some reason her teeth kept getting overgrown and cutting into her sinuses. 😬

[@katbairwell]

@@ArmednotTriggered So right, whilst I appreciate that anyone can be afraid of an animal, even one that to me seems utterly charming and harmless, but I will never excuse, or tolerate someone who would casually talk about killing animals the way we hear with snakes, tarantulas, and all of the "icky" animals. Your attitude is one I shall take up myself, "you don't have to like my animals, but this is *their* house not yours". What snake species do you have? I haven't kept a snake thus far, but would love to gat maybe a Hognose as a starter (though I suspect once I started.....Snake Discovery have the most gorgeous IMG Motley Boa and I would absolutely love, love to be able to add one, one day!)

[@Xeonerable]

Benny sitting in the blanket at 2:50 is just so damn adorable.

[@xanakify]

We had a pet rat that lived for 6 years and it lived in our back yard for an entire 5 months after going under the balcony and refusing to come out again, but one day in late summer she just walked in the balcony door and wanted to go back in her cage. Truly amazing little rascals

[@Brandelwyn]

6 years? That's really impressive

[@moublabla2306]

6 years is impossibly long! Hard to believe, congrats. My uncle had one (sadly only one) rescued rat that lived 4 years. He went with his rat to camping, and to hiking trips, carrying safety in the hoodie pocket. Unfortunately, they are rare exceptions as rats life is usually around 3 years.

[@jsml337g05u]

I'm so jealous you got 6 years with your rat... mine got a tumor and died at 3 years... still miss that little cutie

[@lucillefrancois150]

“I have touched grass, let me back inside”

[@Barnaclebeard]

@@moublabla2306 Literally impossibly long

[@kropotkinnie]

As someone who got lucky enough to have rats as a kid specifically because my parents wanted me to learn early on not to be afraid of any rodents, they're probably some of the smartest and most friendly, human oriented animals you'll ever meet. A lot of people see their size and immediately think they'll be intelligent for their size at most, but no, I've had cats all my life and can confidently tell you rats are just as intelligent as cats or dogs, if not more so. They're also insanely personable and love to interact with humans, especially because they can get bored easily and love the mental stimulation we provide. You'll never meet two rats who are the same, but you'll also never meet a bad rat. Seriously, if you're thinking about an apartment pet or something, rather than getting a dog or cat who will be too large for the environment and be stressed out, get a rat with a cage you keep open when home. You'll be just as satisfied, have just as close of a relationship, and will honestly get even more mental stimulation out of a friendship with a rat than with other animals. Serious proof that size doesn't equal brains. I work with horses and while they're smart, on a human intelligence scale, rats run circles around them. Trust me and adopt a couple, and you'll immediately see how brilliant and human-like they are.

[@shannybabes96]

Yes! The only thing I will add is that you should always have at least two rats. They’re very social and it’s not fair to keep one by themselves.

[@hollyhayes9640]

I've also had a rabbit, a dog, and a ferret, and I would say that my rats were smarter than all of them. 🐀

[@teeniequeenie8369]

You don’t need to keep rats in cages if you rat proof your place or room really well and they will use a litter box with training

[@hollyhayes9640]

@@teeniequeenie8369 I agree. Our rats were never in cages, and they never chewed anything. Typically, in my experience, rats will only chew things when they don't have anything to grind their teeth down with (rats have teeth that grow continuously; so they sometimes chew things to wear down their teeth).

[@LordSandwichII]

Did you have an electric rat by any chance?

[@agirlhasnoname6405]

This sounds like a story out of children's book! Adorable!

[@amrutkulkarni7859]

I would love to see a series of books called "Adventures of Sully and Benny" Either stuff where they do stuff around the neighborhood or where they go on crazy adventures

[@tmd2734]

Dog: what’s happening Rat: your gonna be ok bud I’m here too

[@FatherAdam666]

I had a pair of rats in college, and they really are little angels when taken care of well. I don’t think I could do again because of their short lifespans, but I highly recommend them to anyone who is interested in rodents. Just make sure you have the space for a big cage and check that you aren’t allergic if possible 🐀

[@janae5989]

We had a rat that was just like a tiny dog, he’d ride on our shoulders, knew tricks, and was just the sweetest thing. They definitely are great pets

[@xander-mk4ck]

I’m freaked out by rats . They’re disgusting but i understand they can be pets if well kept no matter what they freak me out

[@kedronmallia939]

@@xander-mk4ck they're cleaner than most pets but i get it if you have a phobia

[@Nocturnalday]

That's literally my exact experience. I love rats

[@sylverscale]

@@xander-mk4ck They're not disgusting - you find them disgusting. Sorry to hear they freak you out as they're really amazing pets. So clever, and like dogs they love to play and learn tricks.

[@vinjarholennordvik3667]

3:18 This is a Disney movie waiting to happen

[@mrsj3304]

It's definitely true about rats! They are so sweet, so affectionate, SO curious, way too smart, and they love their people with their whole tiny hearts. I've had one pet rat back in my youth, her name was Freya, and she lived an astounding 4 years. She was mostly free-range when I was home, always chilling with me wherever I was. If I decided to change rooms, she'd scurry up to my shoulder and give me a "go ahead" squeak in my ear. She'd even go outside with me! I'd lay out in the yard and read or draw and she'd explore and nibble on things nearby. All I had to do was pat the ground and she'd come bounding over to me. We had such a strong bond. After she passed, it wrecked me, I could never get another pet rat again. They have such short lives and they give you so much during their time with you, and even though I can't handle having another, I will always advocate for them being great pets. Also if you're interested in getting a pet rat(s), please also do your homework! They are pretty low maintenance but require plenty of enrichment, attention, and room to explore. And please be aware that sometimes rats will just develop benign tumors (Freya had 2), but they're usually easy for a vet to remove and the recovery for your little buddy will be quick and there should be no lasting complications.

[@MonkehBuns]

I had a rat in high school. He was free range in my room whenever I was home, and I even took him to school with me a few times. I had long hair and he could ride on my shoulder and stay pretty hidden, or go in my purse if he needed a nap or a snack. Such a sweet little guy.

[@nunyabisnass1141]

Rats are pretty chill. Ibe only known a few but rhey were very curious and not at all aggressive, and liked sittong on shoulders while the owner walked around the house.

[@margittkennedy9735]

My rats were all litter trained and happy! One named Taffy learned to play fetch! When we tossed a screw top from a soda bottle, she would chase it and bring it back. She did not give it up willingly however, we had to wrestle it back. Part of the game from her point of view I guess! Never bitten by any one of our 12 or so rats!

[@pixystixnfairycrack]

Thank you so much for praising ratties

[@sadietheratlady]

I'm bawling after reading that. I have a little man that is very special to me his name is Winky and I love him to pieces. He's getting older now about a year and a half and just even the thought of living without my Winkyboy is enough to make me cry and cry. I know no matter how much time passes I will always miss The Wink.

[@JoannaFalkowska]

Rats do not grow 5 years old. They just do not. If this had actually happened, he would be a scientific phenomena. But it didn't, like most likely everything else in this story.

[@sadietheratlady]

@@JoannaFalkowska Actually the record for longest living rat belongs to Rodney who was a pet rat in Tulsa, Oklahoma. According to Guinness Book of World Records, Rodney was born January 1983 and passed away May of 1990, he was 7 years and 4 months old when he died.

[@chaoticevil4038]

@@JoannaFalkowska my first rat died at 5. she was roaming free our house, but she went blind of old age and one day fell down when my grandad forgot to close the door to the basement. who knows how much she would have lived considering otherwise she was active and healthy. she was just a regular black rat. and she is the reason I do not understand why people say rats live only 2-3 yo. my second rat died at 3, but he got ill and just didnt make it.

[@ancient-lemon]

@@chaoticevil4038 As far as I know rats are prone to catching respiratory diseases. I think that might be the reason for the 2-3 year thing, but I'm just guessing.

[@Jay_T62]

The amount of rat appreciation I'm seeing on youtube recently makes me so incredibly happy 🥺 They are such amazing pets to have

[@zorn2017]

maybe now people can tell the difference between sewer rats and domesticated rats

[@gusgrizzel8397]

@@zorn2017 A vet told me all rats are really rattus norvegicus. I think the domesticated rats just learn to bond with humans rather than with the group...

[@zorn2017]

@@gusgrizzel8397 No, they are DOMESTICATED, bred to be pets, good pet-like traits selected and bred to make them good pets.

[@gusgrizzel8397]

@@zorn2017 But they are the same species.

[@aiden3627]

That is the cutest thing ever! He even got his own tiny bandana 😂

[@nekomasteryoutube3232]

When little rat Buddy started grooming themselves my heart just melted from the cuteness

[@NoNameAtAll2]

itself himself it's a single rat

[@Kitty255Again]

​@@NoNameAtAll2bro doesnt know about the hive lmao

[@drew7442]

I was REALLY hoping that Benny would somehow be wearing a tiny Happy Hoodie at some point, but the little bandana makes up for it 😇. This is maybe my favorite episode so far!

[@kodyeldridge5847]

That's it, I've done it, I've officially seen the cutest thing I will ever see.

[@lavendermagic84]

This is the first time I've ever seen a rat being bathed, and that little red bandana looks so adorable on Benny!!

[@Bogdan221192]

thats because you should not bathe rats, unless they somehow messed up in something completly gross. they pretty much take care of their hides themselves

[@jamesmflynn]

@@Bogdan221192 You can bathe anything that gets dirty.

[@Bogdan221192]

@@jamesmflynn the thing is that rats's primary sense is smell, so when you bathe them, you erase their smell and they will try to bring it back as soon as possible, laying in their pee for example, so you dont want to wash your rat, because rat doesn't want to be washed

[@lavendermagic84]

@@Bogdan221192 Thanks for the information! I'm definitely not an expert in keeping pet rats, but I did read that bathing it every once in a while (and not constantly) is okay, although I get what you're saying about their smell and their need to bring back their scent. They don't really need to be bathed unless extremely dirty, kinda like rabbits.

[@Coco-pr4di]

As a huge dog lover, and former rat owner, this is the most adorable, and wholesome thing I've seen all day.😄

[@cynthiacole9328]

Same ... ☺️🐀🐶

[@kabob0077]

Cheetahs with Anxiety: *Have Emotional Support Dogs* Dog with Anxiety: *Have Emotional Support Rat* How adorable.

[@ThatGuyRBY]

What do you get an anxious rat then? An emotional support... cockroach?

[@Kris-wo4pj]

@@ThatGuyRBY another rat. Always have rats in pairs or else they die faster due to stress and anxiety like rabbits.

[@ThatGuyRBY]

@@Kris-wo4pj yeah, but we're currently operating under the assumption the emotional support animal must be a smaller species

[@eco2geek.]

If they were all together, the anxious cheetah would eat the anxious dog's support rat as an hors d'oeuvre.

[@reagan.butler]

@@ThatGuyRBY NOT THE COCKROACH

[@MarieAmicalola]

0:52 I couldn’t handle the cuteness of him handing her his paw.

[@mulqueen2023]

My older sister had three rats. I loved it when they wrapped their tails around my fingers, like rings. Their little licks and nuzzles resemble that of a puppy. Definitely much cleaner then the dog we have now, they'd bathe themselves constantly, while our dog just rubs himself against the wall and couches 😂

[@Teenage_Mutant_Ginga_Ninja]

There's a reason rats are referred to as pocket puppies! I'd love to have them if not for their really short lifespans.

[@mulqueen2023]

@@Teenage_Mutant_Ginga_Ninja That's their nickname? That's so sweet 🥰. And fully agreed, I'd get myself an entire brood of them, but I'd constantly be plagued by the thought that they're gonna die soon. And I would miss living in the moment and be constantly fearing the future

[@marialouise3450]

bro what do you mean clean? Ours peed all over themselves and always, without fail, sat their butts as close to the cage as possible to pee outside the cage

[@mulqueen2023]

@@marialouise3450 uh that doesn't sound normal, or even okay. They're might have been some issues regarding territory and feelings a constant need to mark everything. The cage could have been too small or cramped, or they simply lacked proper training. I'm not calling you a bad owner, just to analyse the rats and yourself before coming to any definitive conclusion. Most owners blame the pets before themselves, which tends to be the main root of the issue.

[@marialouise3450]

@i we got them as grown ups, and they were super aggressive no matter what we did Had them outside the cage whenever they wanted out, let them roam freely etc.

[@ILoveWoolerbear]

Adorable !!!! I love seeing this. Sully is gorgeous and Benny is very cute

[@melindavansandt5168]

Omg...my Aussie totally needs an emotional support animal of some kind..lol His name is Java and he's a red Merle. He is 200% the most anxious and neurotic dog I've ever met! He likes to watch ur vids with me!

[@Saturnthroughstars]

You can't even fathom how much I relate to your dog 😅

[@fluffyphoenix8082]

my dog has pretty severe anxiety, as well as a disability. he's a handful and we love him so much. maybe I should get him an emotional support animal! lol

[@perrytheplatyhoe3501]

Weird that it almost seems like Aussies are more prone to anxiety or something lol Our dog is an Aussie mix and she has pretty bad anxiety that she has to take meds for

[@chie261]

I did in fact get my Aussie his own emotional dog. It really helped a lot!

[@TeenDream888]

@@perrytheplatyhoe3501 the merle coats tend to have the most neurological issues, but I will say intelligent breeds need more stimulation and firmness or just like people will develop anxiety. weird to think that some dogs can think 'what if', but Aussies are definitely one of them.

[@woolymitten7812]

What an absolutely adorable combo!! Benny needs a cute little “Support Rat” harness so he can go everywhere with Sully. And maybe a little jacket for Sully to wear, with a pocket for his buddy to sit in. So he can go EASILY go everywhere he goes. ((And are those pugs on your pants?))

[@kokuhakuqiun4215]

That’s be a great idea! Getting the rat a “Support Rat” harness would be great, and maybe a jacket for Sully to wear with a pocket for the rat. That would be so great! Then just tell people “the support rat is for my nervous dog”. It’s nice to see a Rat and a Dog just snuggling together.

[@whalesharks]

unfortunately rodents on harnesses (easily crushes ribs) or balls (feet get caught and mangled, also acts as sensory deprivation) are super dangerous, i wonder if theres another way for him to go on walks?

[@bluewardog]

Maybe not with a aussie, there is a good reason there nicknamed wigglebutts. Benny mipe get flung somewhere by mistake if no secured.

[@ERuth0420]

@@whalesharks I mean they have little strollers for cats and small dogs, and they have clear domed backpacks for cats...

[@mattlantzy5093]

0:32...."BENNY.....WHERE ARE YOU!!!!" - Sully

[@joshuadpathfinder]

In Jr. High I adopted a pet rat who lived almost until graduation. Anubis was a good friend who often took naps with me, and would ride on my shoulder whenever I was at home. He lived till he was about six years old; which is unheard of for rats, but as stated in the video, a good breeder will always make sure their pups have good genes. He gave me many years of comfort. I'm glad Benny is holding true to the name of good rodents everywhere.

[@trinenielsen4288]

You have no idea how much positive and varm energy you are sending around the whole world with your amazing videos.. Me, a random girl in Denmark is smiling with a warm fuzzy feeling inside now.. Thank you beautiful soul...

[@Hoffenditty2081]

I was having such a bad day today. I absolutely love her posts. She's wonderful.

[@Geveret.develia]

Same I’m from and really like her

[@Geveret.develia]

Israel *

[@screamingmimi90]

She is a treasure, that’s for sure. I like the comment section, too. 🥰 Warm fuzzies all around the world.❤️❤️❤️

[@tylociraptor8131]

Rats are such intellegent and emotionally aware pets. It doesn't surprise me at all that he helps his dog with anxiety!

[@cynthiacole9328]

I love this ! The buddies got matching bandannas ... So cute !!! 💓🐁🐀🐶

[@edderz101]

I cannot stress this enough, rats are absolutely wonderful pets. I used to have a white rat called Spook (because she looked like a little ghost). She would roam around the flat, climb up my leg and sleep in the hood of my hoodie. She was the best.

[@IAmQube]

“Their dog’s emotional support rat”…this line broke the internet for me.

[@eskeline]

@@faroffspring2430 and wheres the hamster's emotional support ant?

[@alexandramilos392]

@@faroffspring2430 an emotional support animal/person is ment to lift up the mood or calm down the subject(and be supportive, duh). So yes an animal can have another animal be their emotional support animal just the way a human can have an animal or other human as emotional support. Friendly interactions with members of different species make us and that member of the other species feel less lonely, more happy/calm and can even make us curios.(that shoud be common scense but some of us instead of thinking logically more than 0.1 seconds prefer to be rude and unempathinc for no reason)

[@alexandramilos392]

@@faroffspring2430 also not knowing that "X is someones emotional support animal" is sometimes said truthfully and other times said as a cute joke or even both and in witch context/situation IS the true definitive evidance of social degeneration

[@alexandramilos392]

Ok first of all the "oh you are just projecting on your animal, they don't accsually need that" is just an excuse made by people who can and could take better care of their animals and make them happier but decide not to beacose they are either too lazy to ,they don't know how to read animal body language and understand animal social cues and vocalizations(the fact that those things differ from animal to animal dosen't help) or they don't understand the importance of mental-emotional health and how it works(or even belive animals don't have feelings and emotions in general, bad/negative/good/positive) or they don't pay attention to their animals and think that they live in bliss(false lots of animals suffer and have problems all of the time for lots of reasons some are caused by us and some not). Just beacose animals seem more content dosen't mean they are, animals can feel bad, have problems and be traumatized just like us, yeah sure the way we do it is more complex but it dosen't mean we are the only ones "The rats necesity to acompany the dog is in question" well a child dosen't have to sleep with a teddy bear to survive either but it is a preferance of theirs and if you pay attention you can see the dog preffered to be with the rat rather than without it even if the rat dosen't help with the dogs phisical health "Dogs can have a fucking shower and be ok" wrong, they don't enjoy it and they are clearly not neutral about it either, they dislike/hate it, and that is NOT what i would call being "ok" with something at all. Yeah sure the shower isn't going to kill/phisicaly hurt them, but that dosen't make it any more ok for them, as seen by their reaction) Edit: if people joke/hurt themselfs that dosen't mean they would do that to others beacose while outsiders can get mad at you but it's harder for you to get and at yourself, same thing about careing for or mistreating other members of our species vs members of other species, 2 wrongs don't make a right, and animals are like children(vulnerable)in many ways thats why people care about them so much.

[@alexandramilos392]

Being empathic towards animals dosen't stop people from being empathic towards other humans,(usually somebody who isn't empathic to animals won't be the best at empathy towards other humans either, and stopping from being empathic towards animals isn't going to make them more empathic towards humas, it will just stop them from haveing empathy towards animals and that's it)in fact it can help them learn how to use their empathy in a usefull nice way when they interact with other people, it can go the other way around too, and I woudn't say pets don't need our love/care/empathy as much as other humans, in fact they need even more .I never said the dog got traumatized by the shower, i said that dogs do and can get traumatized by things, that dogs are not ok with showers and they are unpleasent for them at the very least.(it was mentioned the dog in the video got traumatized as a puppy beacose it's nails got cliped the wrong way, im guessing they cut it's paw a little but idk, witch was extremly clear from that part of the video where she tried to clip it's nails,)The rat was supposed to, and got a bath, too and since it helps the dog be more calm(witch is better than if the rat wasn't there beacose it's better to feel more calm and therefore probably act more calm then to not, also again dogs usually don't like the shower and can react badly)in the shower i don't see your problem with the rat being there when the dog was takeing the shower. (Other then the fact that rats skin, from what i know, i might be wrong, is sensitive and can be damadged by soap, but don't quote me on that, im not a rat expert, i do know rats clean themselfs so they don't need a bath, unless they enjoy swiming)

[@carriehunt9741]

I love that Benny got his own bandana! 😀😀😀

[@vikic.7717]

The markings on the dog were beautiful.

[@ellawalker2272]

seeing Benny almost made me cry. I love how much attention your giving him. My rat passed away just last year, and i still cry myself to sleep. Im so happy you didnt freak out and not let him in! Love you and all your work!

[@IHJB666]

Cry yourself to sleep over a rat? 😂 Ay you're not gonna make it in the real world

[@sunsettip6167]

@@IHJB666​​⁠that’s a really rude thing to say!! people grieve in different ways and rats are just as amazing as something like a dog or a cat!! don’t be rude or perhaps it will be you not making it in the real world!

[@ellawalker2272]

@@IHJB666 Yes. I cry myself to sleep over a rat. Why did you feel the need to do this. Ruin something someone loves deeply, over a comment. I don't think you know what I've went through in my life, and how much a small little animal can do to change that. Your action is despicable. How could you be so cruel. If you have a pet, or family member you love dearly, imagine them dying. wouldn't you cry? that's just what i thought. And by the way, I'm doing absolutely fine in the real world. I'm in the best vet school in the entire world. I'm in the University of Guelph, learning to change lives for animals, and the people who love those animals. So, jokes on you, looks like you're the one who's not going to make it in the real world with your shitty act. So put your shit together, and cry to your mommy if you really need to.

[@ellawalker2272]

Thank you. 😘

[@nina_2807]

​@IHJB666 I hope one day you will have to cry yourself to sleep and someone else will say it is stupid what you feel.

[@vanillaskies5186]

I actually deeply like rats ever since i’ve experienced them as classroom pets It sounds weird but I feel like they kinda like being talked to Much like a dog or a cat and respond positively to being held and cradled as long as they’re free to move around a little I would definitely recommend them as a pet for kids that are gentle and really like having a friendship with their pet

[@kathrynturnbull990]

this is correct: rats are very social animals, unlike most other rodents (that are kept as pets) who tend to be solitary. I think that all of the naturally more social animals tend to respond well to human interaction when kept as pets.

[@MonkehBuns]

Rats are definitely the best rodent type pet, not stinky like mice or bitey like hamsters. Just friendly little dudes.

[@shaigray2999]

honestly i wouldnt recommend any small child a rodent or any animal for that matter. kids are mean and in my opinion shouldnt be kept around any pet espcially if its someone elses

[@audreymuzingo933]

This has to be the most ethology-affirming grooming I have ever seen. Never mind accepting the e.s. rat for a moment --just the fact that the groomer and the owner agreed that Sully didn't need to have EVERYTHING done at his first appointment, that's huge. I've read a lot of grooming customer reviews, and sure there's the odd complaint about a groomer giving the dog a ridiculous haircut or whatever, but the most common complaint is that some of the services were left undone or only partly done. And those complaints tend to paint the groomer as either lazy or too scared of dogs. Well, if the dog is literally trying to BITE because it is THAT opposed to whatever is happening, that should tell you something about the amount of stress its' feeling! Not only should a person earning relatively low wages for a specialized job not have to risk a trip to the e.r., the dog should not be made to endure something terrifying through brute force! That will just make it even harder the next time, and the next, and before you know it, you'll find yourself settling for having a filthy shaggy dog all the time, because the alternative is too much of a nightmare. Unfortunately, some groomers fold under the pressure of demanding clients and do whatever services they demand, whatever restraint is necessary, and that is so sad.

[@shaigray2999]

"low wages" sure chain groomers earn low to minium wage earnings but private groomers arent underpaid at all especially if they do a good job as they charge an average 200-400 per dog and if multiple dogs are coming in a professional private business the the owner of the store is earning thousands per day, not per week, per day please do research on wages small business dog groomers they dont charge or earn low

[@audreymuzingo933]

@@shaigray2999 Is that really all you got out of my post? I'm not going to research what was a very minor part of what I was saying, that someone shouldn't have to risk a bad bite just to please a fussy customer, which you are probably one of. And you even admit that some groomers do get low wages.

[@shaigray2999]

@@audreymuzingo933 yes because its what i can take from your post and idc about fussy owners because its not fully their choice what the groomer decides to do its the owners responsibility to have the dog accustomed to grooming processes at a young age no fault to the groomer

[@audreymuzingo933]

@@shaigray2999 Great, glad you agree with me then.

[@shaigray2999]

@@fluffybuttss ye especially with the recommendation as a pet for kids since kids absolutely should not have a rodent as a pet also my E key is stuck so sorry if my words are missplelled

[@rs-mt6kl]

2:37 - 3:02 I've rewatched this bit so many times, this lil guy is absolutely adorable

[@Fyreflier]

Love that you're advocating for pet rats! My sister and I had two when I was a kid - our first pets that were all our own and not a fish. They were the loveliest critters. They liked mazes and climbing inside sleeves. You're totally right about them being clean. They actually _hate_ being unclean or being in an unclean environment; grooming is a social activity for them and they probably spend more time tidying and washing themselves than cats do. 11/10 good babies, highly recommended.

[@janae5989]

I’m a huge fan of rats as well, never thought I’d think so highly of them but once we had a few as pets I was sold. They’re so loving, like tiny little dogs!

[@charbieking8838]

Rats are some of the best companions ever! I miss my 5 girls so much, but I swore they were my last set because my heart couldn't take losing them so quickly. All lived to 3, except Floss who made it to 3 and a half 😊 Benny stole my heart! What a sweet grey potato he is!

[@Missuskeefe]

if more people would give rats a chance, they would find out how awesome they really are. Spanky was my little guy, he was amazing with the kids and so stinking sweet.

[@charbieking8838]

@@Missuskeefe Spanky sounds wonderful 🥰

[@GilraenTook]

Same reason I don't have rats any longer either

[@mierardi88]

I loved Benny's little shake to get the water off! Rats are super cool and cute animals, I'm glad good channels like this one are helping to rehabilitate their image.

[@KeelySG]

As someone who has pet rats....this is AMAZING!!!! What a beautiful relationship and thanks for posting this! I hope it brings more awareness to how amazing pet rats can be!

[@tashacolee]

Never knew a rat and dog could become besties ♥️

[@sll255]

I have known this since watching tom and jerry 😄

[@saturnitiez]

rats are pretty much the dog of rodents; intelligent and can learn tricks :)

[@minakatsama2014]

Me neither... 🤔

[@LB-ge8ih]

This is a rare thing, and not generally advised, as many (if not most) dogs will kill rats. Rats should be kept with other rats, they are very social amongst their species. And really they shouldn’t be bathed - it’s stressful, and it isn’t usually necessary as they are very fastidious groomers.

[@KHTimeProtecter]

This is quite possibly one of the most wholesome video you’ve uploaded. I’m just a sucker for rats and I’m so glad Benny and Sully have such a nice bond.

[@care4557]

We had two rats for our sons. They were so sweet and smart. Tom Hanks was my favorite. Sadly since they we’re bonded the passed the same day. They were about 3 years.

[@cherylhurst7093]

This was the sweetest. Love their bond. How cute and a tiny bandana to boot.

[@RachelG1979]

Being brave taking Benny outside! I was terrified a bird was gonna swoop in for him.

[@StAmander]

Not with an Aussie around…. I have two aussies, one rescued a gopher from one of my cats, and nope I never trained my aussies to be good around rodents just cats, small dogs and some humans.

[@a.i.9588]

It broke my heart listening to the puppy cry for his little friend rat while it was having their bath!!! My heart is all mush now!!! ❤️🥰🥰🥰 Thank you for making my day better!

[@StephenLewisUniverse]

The friendship between something so small and something so big made me tear up a bit. They are very special animals.

[@isleuntoherself]

i’m tearing up and screaming because of how cute the RAT THE RAT IS

[@laurenl22]

I don't know why this made me cry but it did. How sweet!!! Their bond is so precious. This totally changed my opinion of having pet rats.

[@Catelyna]

You never fail to amaze me. I love rats and this little bond is soooo cute! But not as cute, as his little bandana, omg 🥰

[@delaneyreyes8995]

You have NO business putting a tiny bandana on Benny! 😭😭 that was so adorable I nearly passed away lol! I HIGHLY recommend rats as pets. They are the most incredible, intelligent, and affectionate little beings ever. They are so fun to own and interact with. It’s like having a mini puppy! I’m gonna try and take a picture of my rats with bandanas on now 😂

[@SkyNessa321]

I too reacted with a rage sourced in cute aggression to the adorable tiny bandana! I feel this comment down to the depths of my soul!

[@lauriewilson4741]

She may have only put the bandanna on for the photo then removed it. She’d never harm an animal

[@danireydon762]

I think all animals that come to you for whatever reason leave you happier than when they first arrived. You are so great with them all. Keep up your wonderful work as I enjoy your videos very much. This one with the dog and his support rat was one of the best. Thank you for sharing 🎉🎉🎉

[@GusPD]

I never expected to enjoy watching someone bathe and groom dogs everyday, but you continue to surprise and amaze with great new content! great channel

[@Voltaic_Fire]

Oh man, Sully is going to be heartbroken when his little friend passes away, I hope his owners get a few more rats before that happens.

[@atlkidz1]

That’s why you make sure you have a new pet rat already established

[@GilraenTook]

I must say, especially watching this, how much I adore you. I quit watching the first two grooming channels I watched pretty quickly because both groomers are so harsh with their dogs. It's really nice to see someone who knows that dogs thrive on praise and people working with them to deal with fear instead of just manhandling them or yelling because the dog is "acting up."

[@Juliamay67]

I totally agree. Especially the channel that rhymes with Dover. :(

[@lisaturtle1106]

@@Juliamay67 lol was just thinking of her

[@Sivanot]

@@Juliamay67 Assuming i'm thinking of the same channel, i don't recall her ever being that harsh with dogs? Though i havent watched all of her content, so i could be missing something.

[@MenTB]

Thanks to you, I ordered a Happy Hoodie for my anxious cat Wolfie for her vet appointment today. It really really helped both her and the vet have a good experience. The vet was really impressed and wants to order some for her practice to use for other pets while they are there :)

[@CarrotFlowers421]

Sully being so nervous yet still handing you his paws is beyond adorable

[@ceerstar851]

0:50 He really did that. Smart dog.

[@acediaethos4469]

was wondering if anyone else noticed that. cutie pie caught on and wanted to help speed the process up

[@ceerstar851]

​@@acediaethos4469 Right, he offered his paw to be dried as if he knew the process and wanted to be helpful.

[@MoraytheJoyBoat]

When videos tell me to “wait till the end” I’m usually annoyed and click away because the big surprise is never anything worth seeing. That tiny bandana was worth EVERYTHING 😂❤️

[@davidschmidt6013]

I saw the ear-wrap and knew it's basic protective purpose but never realized that it could also provide some emotional support, since it would feel like the dog is having its head held. Luv yur channel!!

[@clarissa-om8qs]

I love that you've add some accurate info about rats! They are so misunderstood animals, and every opportunity to educate people about them is a good one. Also doggo with support animal made my day. Love them

[@paulobiwankenobi]

This broke my heart 😢 I’m a rattie lover, my two rats passed this year and I cannot explain how much I miss them. One of them look a lot like the one on the video. If you’re thinking about getting rats, make sure you know where you adquiere them. We never could know mine were ill since they were babies and they make it to live 2 years but always on meds and going to vet every two weeks for 6 months… So yeah, I freaking love them, but my heart is still broken. Taco & Queso were the best 🐀🐁🤍

[@minetruly]

I feel so sad for you. Please get proper grief counseling. Don't let anyone tell you your grief isn't valid enough to be worth a grief counselor "because they were just rats." It can be every bit as real as grief over the death of a human, and if you're still having trouble processing after a few months, it's time to get guidance on healing from their loss. 💔

[@randomvielleuse527]

I'm so sorry your sweet rats died so young. Losing a pet is devastating. I had to do multiple sessions with a talented therapist before I was ok enough to go on after a cat I adored was rehomed. She wasn't mine, but I loved her with all my heart. She went to an awesome home but... It damaged my heart and I'll never be the same. I highly recommend a sympathetic counselor who understands the grief of losing a pet. xo

[@emogeane]

❤️

[@marindarademeyer3399]

I also had 2 rat brothers .casamigo was put down on 6 ag 2022 due to microplasma. He was 18 months old. His brother dies yesterday 2 march 2023 of a heart attack and he also had a tumor. He was 2 years old. His birthday was 19 february 2023.i cry my eyes out. It take months to overcome that loss. Marinda rademeyer from south africa

[@paulobiwankenobi]

@@marindarademeyer3399 I send u a huge hug Marinda 🤍

[@snazzyjo13]

That life span fact kicked me in the gut ngl. Love your channel, love that you're able to do what you're clearly so suited for.

[@redbunnytail9528]

Thanks!

[@alyssammiller]

Thank you so much for spotlighting how wonderful rats are! They are the dearest little things and I’d feel very incomplete without mine. My dog Lucy requires an emotional support rat for car rides. She’ll pick one out and wear him in a modified hoodie around her neck. When she gets nervous she sticks her nose in for cuddles. I’ve kept probably more than 60 rats over the past 20 years and rehabbed/rescued most of them. They are truly the most wonderful pets or “pocket puppies” that one could get. I only wish they lived much longer. Two years is far too short.

[@chrissy2356]

Ok that is adorable af!

[@pamelacass9642]

Well....the rats probably are amazed they've lived so long with the competition, other animals, the occasional screaming human, and the so-called "normal" humans.....🐀🐁😱😨

[@kathleenorr9237]

This has to be the best thing I’ve seen for ages…poor Sully looked so nervous, you could see Benny calm him down 😍

[@sethamederat5841]

I will die for benny Also, just have to say, as a person that worked at rodent rescue And fostered dozens of rats for years - even tho rats are wonderful with kids - please don't buy a rat as a pet for a child below 10. Domestic rats are very fragile and kids can not know their strength. 80% of all discarded rats at my rescue that had permanently disabling injuries were victims of cruel or just not carefull children

[@macabrecitrus2127]

True. Most pets really aren't a good fit for small children. Maybe some dog breeds ? That's all

[@testerwulf3357]

I wouldn’t let ANY pet be around a child under 10 unsupervised for the pets safety..many are monsters or just don’t understand why they need to be gentle

[@rizahawkeyepierce1380]

@@testerwulf3357 Depends a lot on the kid. Some kids would be responsible enough at 7 or 8, while others are casually cruel to animals into their teens.

[@eldritchtourist]

Really do not agree with this. I'm someone who grew up constantly around animals and who was a very sensitive, over-gentle, empathetic child. It's not children, it's personality, plus parenting. I knew about death, knew how easy it was to hurt things, knew exactly what the consequences would be if I was careless from a very young age. A lot of people want to keep their kids innocent from those consequences or don't focus much on delicacy, and that's the problem here, along with low general exposure to animals that aren't treated like toys and decoration. It should be on a case by case basis. Rats taught me so much about death (from their short but meaningful lifespans) and intimacy with their sweetness and intelligence and I doubt I would've had such a rich childhood without them-- I love and was around all sorts of animals, but none left such a huge impact on me or relieved as much loneliness as rats. In general, I'd say pets should not be seen as a coming of age right, but a highly specific living entity that should match your child's needs as much as possible, not just be thrown at them because that's what you do, get a puppy or hamster or kitten, just Because It's Normal or out of envy for peers that have them. Mind you, even bigger animals get abused and abandoned and if they don't come out of it with injuries they'll come out of it with trauma that they have to live longer with in comparison to the rats.

[@sethamederat5841]

@@eldritchtourist my guy i think ure missing the point "kids' being cruel and uncareful and easily damaging their brittle little pets", "i turned out fine" and "its not their fault they were raised like this" ane statements that do coexist no matter how long u write ur ted talk on how benefitial it was to u it doesnt negate that *hundreds of little pets are njured or disabled by a child owner" and most of them end up in rescues

[@angelahagood3639]

Sully is beautiful! I love his face freckles! Thank you for showing us that there are dogs that need emotional support too. What a sweet relationship. Is there anything you can’t do??? Wow!

[@brikramberg8084]

Their bond is so precious! I'm not a rat person but seeing that made me kind of love them. Totally squealed when I saw that tiny bandana! OMG so cute!!

[@jmr9735]

Oh my gosh...how cute was he when he helped her dry him off by giving her his arm. :) What an adorable pup...and rat, too, of course. The bandana on Benny was too much for me to handle. How absolutely precious!

[@kelliejimenez2125]

What a perfect best buddies! That’s so sweet he has an emotional rat. I didn’t know that about rats. That’s awesome. What a beautiful dog.