Rat Fanciers of Ohio

Ohio Rat Fanciers Association
Breeder Code of Ethics

All members must agree to follow this standard code of ethics when becoming a member of our club.
(this Code of Ethics is still under Construction!)

I will provide my rat(s) with clean and fresh water, at all times.

I will provide my rats with only safe and healthy: bedding, food, and caging.

I will provide my rats with regular: Exercise, attention, love, and affection.

I will provide the proper medical attention for my rat(s) when needed.

If i am no longer able to care for my rat(s), i will surrender it to an appropriate rescue, or find it a good home.

I will promote domesticated rats to the best of my ability as: loyal, affectionate, and worthwhile companion animals.

I will follow the guidelines of Quarantine as stated by ORFA.

I understand that the rules of Quarantine are put into place for the safety of my rats, and the rats of other members, especially when there is an event where rats are welcome.

I will respect all my fellow members and value their opinions.

And pertaining to breeders;

I will not practice culling nor will i condone this practice.

I will not breed any rats with questionable temperment and/or health.

I will not breed rats to sell to laboratories, pet stores, or in any way else for food for another animal.

I will keep adequate (or better) records on temperament and health of all rats that are in my care from my breeding lines, and will try to the best of my ability, to keep track of the temperament and health of all rats that were adopted out.

I will keep adequate records of all placed animals and whom they were placed with.

I will keep adequate predigree and genetic information, and will pass this information on to all adopters.

I understand that ORFA strongly suggest not to breed female rats that are under 5 months of age, or over 11 months. And not to breed Male rats under the age 6 months. This is not only for safety, but gives adequate time to assess temperament and health.

I understand that ORFA strongly reccommends using Adoption Applications to screen potential adopters, and use Breeder/Pet only contracts when adopting out a rat.

**Right now this is still under construction, and i would appreciate for anybody to email me with suggestions or concerns regarding this Code of Ethics**