Applications, Contracts, & Rigid Protocols

If you're searching for a new pet rat, it is very common to encounter applications, contracts, and protocols to be able to purchase from a breeder. I recognize that Forest City Rats is the anomaly in that regard. I strongly believe that having no application isn’t a red flag; it’s a gesture of mutual trust and respect for my clients’ privacy, as they’re already supporting my small business.

These tools are often framed as ethical safeguards, meant to ensure responsible pet ownership. While intentions may be good, in practice, they can be invasive, rigid, and geared more toward control than care.

Some breeder applications go far beyond reasonable screening, asking for highly personal details about finances, household dynamics, mental health, or unrelated lifestyle choices - information no breeder should need. I completely understand the worry that comes with sending beloved rats to a new home, but I myself could never ask a client for a photo of their rat setup to prove they’re worthy of purchasing from me. Some breeders don’t stop there; they require that you write a specific phrase and the date on a piece of paper in the photo, just to make sure it wasn’t stolen from the internet. Nothing says "I already don't trust you" more than that.

There are even applications that ask parents to outline how they intend to supervise their children around the rat(s), an intrusive and frankly absurd expectation that treats normal family life as a liability.

Applications can provide useful information about a prospective owner. However, they cannot replace good communication, ongoing support, or careful consideration of the rats’ welfare. I don't ever want my potential buyers to feel interrogated or untrusted. You shouldn’t need to offer the blood of your firstborn to purchase a rat.

Legally, contracts may have some enforceability, but the reality is much more complex. Even if a breeder could prove a buyer violated their contract, the damages awarded would not cover the cost of pursuing the case. I prefer to keep things simple.

Courts are generally reluctant to get involved in micro-level disputes over pets, particularly when the value of the animal is relatively low (most pet rats sell for anywhere from $25 to $120). When you weigh that against the cost of pursuing legal action (lawyer fees, court filing fees, time), the financial and practical feasibility becomes clear.

Overly strict or invasive requirements can frustrate capable, caring rat parents, making the purchasing process feel like a test rather than the beginning of a supportive relationship. These practices, while common, highlight a broader concern in the rat breeding world: finding the right balance between oversight and accessibility.