Black Berkshire

Rocky was a pet shop find, or rather the pet shop found us. Some ignorant person had got him as a pet, but returned him to the store after deciding that they didn't want him. The store's policy was not to resell returned animals, but the store owner knew of us and our love for rats, so they asked if we would take him. We visited him and discussed whether we wanted him or not (although, it never really was a question), and obviously we ended up bringing him home! After being neutered and going through quarantine, Rocky went to live with Peewee, who ended up being his best friend.
Rocky was always the source of a giggle no matter what he happened to be doing. He was the ultimate clown! We even named his distinctive walk the Rocky Ramble. His trot like move was a side-splitter! He also was an 'evolved' rat, with exaggerated thumbs that he easily used to help grasp food. In fact, he ate with one hand more often than not...I think he was bragging! He had also taken to bruxing and eye popping, especially when riding in the car. He and Peewee would ride on my dashboard whenever I'd let them and they loved it. Of course, those in cars nearby, weren't too sure about the whole thing. You should have seen the looks and finger pointing! It was hilarious!
Rocky was the picture of health his entire life, which goes to show you, that you never can be sure of what you're going to get. Pet stores get a bad rap because of unknown histories on pets, but knowing the history does not always make an ideal pet. Rocky is proof of that. In the end, as is typical, with large old males, he was lost to congestive heart failure. He fought hard right along with us, though and had a wonderful long life! Rocky will always be remembered as our silly old man. It was with Rocky that we first started keeping detailed records and began learning everything we could about rat health and disease prevention methods. Rocky tought us a lot and we are forever grateful to have had this loving and accepting rat in our lives! To see Rocky's gravestone memorial, click here. To view all of Rocky's pictures, visit here. To view Rocky's medical history, click here!