* Joxter has been adopted by his foster family! Yay! *

Joxter was found as a stray and brought to Hamilton Animal Services. He’s a lovely little guy! Very friendly and gentle.
He’ll have a vet appointment soon for a check-up, and hopefully he’ll be able to find his forever home shortly after.

Welcome to Ladybird, Joxter! We’re glad you’re here!

Sadly, Joxter’s situation seems to be yet another case of an owner releasing their pet into the wild, thinking the animal can survive on their own. Domestic rabbits, rats, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils and other small animals do not have the genetic traits to survive without human care. They cannot find food on their own, and because of their colouring and lack of “wild animal” instincts, they easily fall prey to predators. If for whatever reason you cannot keep your pet and are considering releasing him/her into the wild, please don’t. Their chances of survival are slim, and their life until that point may be one of constant suffering…

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Wondering if a rat is the right pet for you? Check out this article.

Wondering about how to care for rats? Check out this website.

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Ladybird recommends Critter Nation cages. They are hands down the most spacious, and best quality enclosure for small animals on the market. They come in single and double sizes, and can be modified and customized to create enrichment and provide comfort. Their design and solid manufacturing almost entirely eliminates the possibility of accidental escape. Critter Nation cages are available (or can be ordered) at most local pet supply stores.

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Can’t adopt but want to help?
Monetary donations are always needed, but if you’d like to donate something specifically for the rats in our care, donations of rat food, small pet blankets (used for cage lining), rat hammocks and fleece liners for Critter Nation cages are very much appreciated!
Donations of these items can be dropped off (and purchased) at:
– Dundas Pet Valu – 86 Main Street, Dundas, Ontario.
Or you can purchase items and have them delivered to us through our
– Amazon Wish List
– Tiny Paws Emporium (ask items to be delivered to Ladybird Animal Sanctuary)

Visit this page of our website to see all the ways to donate.