Argentine group helps former lab rats find new homes
The initiative began in 2016 when founder Dominique Verdier adopted two rats from a university laboratory that no longer needed them.
In Argentina's capital, an unusual annual event is giving unwanted laboratory rats and mice a second chance at life.
At "Ratapalooza" in Buenos Aires, animal lovers gather to adopt rodents that were bred in research facilities and are no longer needed for scientific studies.
The event is organised by Team Ratas, a volunteer group dedicated to rescuing and rehoming lab rats and mice that would otherwise be euthanised.
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During the fair-like event, visitors can meet adoptable rats, learn how to care for them, and buy rat-themed items such as mugs, stickers, and keychains. The proceeds help cover veterinary treatment and food costs for the animals.
María Gabriela Aponte, one of the adopters, said many people have misconceptions about rats.
"Rats are very intelligent and affectionate animals," she told The Associated Press while holding one of her adopted pets.
According to Team Ratas, anyone wishing to adopt must have a large cage, enrichment toys, access to a veterinarian experienced in exotic animals, and enough time to spend with the pets each day.
A growing rescue movement
The initiative began in 2016 when founder Dominique Verdier adopted two rats from a university laboratory that no longer needed them.
Since then, Team Ratas has built a network of about 90 foster homes in Buenos Aires and surrounding areas. The group works with 11 laboratories and animal facilities and has rescued more than 8,000 rodents over the past decade, placing around 3,000 in permanent homes.
The organisation has also attracted a large online following, with more than 60,000 followers on Instagram.
Challenging the stigma around rats
Verdier said pet rats are often misunderstood and unfairly associated with disease.
She stressed that laboratory rats are healthy because they are raised in controlled environments and have no contact with wild rodents.
"They do not transmit diseases," she said.
Silvina Diaz, who studies rats and mice at the University of Buenos Aires, supports the adoption effort.
"It is wonderful that these animals can go to families that will give them a good life," she said.
Despite occasional criticism on social media, Verdier says she remains committed to the cause.
"Some people think it is silly," she said. "But I have been doing this for 10 years, and it continues to grow."
