Rats are excellent pets for people of all ages. They are a good size to be easy to handle by children or elderly and do not tend to jump and wiggle away as quickly as hamsters, mice or gerbils. They are as likely to be awake during the daytime as at night, and they can be trained to perform simple tricks. They enjoy the company of people, are rarely aggressive and,  they are easy to care for. They are intelligent, clean, loving, trainable and fun to watch and play with.  Great pets for kids in small apartments. They don't require much space, can be litter trained, taught tricks and cuddled. They have the personality of a puppy and not only make good pets, but they make great friends. They are clean. Unlike mice, rats do not smell (unless you neglect to clean out their cage). Their lifespan is short (average two to three years) so they do not require long-term commitment.
      If you are unsure about rats, just stop and take a look into their cute little faces. It is common amongst those who are owners of white rats to say that "You are owned by your rats", instead of saying "You own rats."  Once you own a white rat, you will never be ratless again!
 

                               SOME RABBIT FACTS
                           

     A pet rabbit can be a delightful addition to your household, but before you decide to adopt one, it is always wise to weigh the pros and cons of this kind of a pet.  Rabbits can be trained to use a litter box and, like a dog, will come when they are called. They have also been known to play an engaging game of tag with their owners. They are loving, inquisitive, intelligent and sociable, and, if they are well cared for, they will live from 7 -10 years or even longer. Contrary to the belief that rabbits are a low maintenance starter pet for children, rabbits are fragile and delicate and require specialized medical care. Children are naturally energetic and loving, but cuddling, squeezing, hugging and holding are behaviors that children often exhibit and these same behaviors are precisely what rabbits fear the most.  Rabbits are not capable of crying out when distressed and turn to chewing or biting to show their fear. It is very important that an adult be the primary caregiver, and not the child. 

Is a Rabbit a good family pet? Yes, it is, given the right care and handling, a family rabbit will bring many years of joy to every member of the family.

                      
          
 GUINEA PIGS MAKE GOOD PETS TOO
                                                 
Guinea pigs are not only incredibly cute, but they also make ideal pets for children. They are very docile and rarely bite and are extremely sociable. Most guinea pigs are very affectionate, and will grunt or whistle happily when petted or given this kind of attention. Being larger than other small animals such as hampsters, gerbils, or mice, it is easier to handle them and to catch if they should run away. They have their own little personalities and are trainable if you have the time and patience to work with them.

The guinea pig is a low-cost, low-maintenance animal whose bedding
should be changed once or twice a week. Fresh water should be
provided every day or two and food and hay should be given on a
daily basis. These endearing little pets live an average of 5-7 years.  More information can be found on the following link:
www.guinealynx.com