I chose Helen and Grendel about two and a half years ago.
In our early days together, Grendel was a feisty biter; this is how she came to be named Grendel, not Fluffy or SweetieCakes. In time, she mellowed and became merely indifferent to humans. Where Helen was dimwitted but affectionate, Grendel was clever and adventurous— always climbing, exploring, and stealing Helen’s food.
After Helen’s death, I was afraid that Grendel might waste away. Instead, Grendel’s temperament changed completely. She still climbs and swipes food, but now she likes being petted, she wants to hang out with me and Ian. Last week, she even boggled for the first time.
I’m sorry that Grendel lost her companion, but tickled pink that she’s grown into such good company.
(Grendel came up with this pose herself. I haven’t yet sunk to staging cutesy pet photos.)
That is a seriously cute rat! People’s adorable small rodents make me want to get some sort of critter myself, but I fear it would end badly.
[Reply]
Rebekah Reply:
July 1st, 2011 at 8:20 PM
I think pet ownership is one of life’s true “when in doubt, don’t” situations. Are you a pet person in general, or would a pet be new to you?
[Reply]
That is sweet. :)
[Reply]
Rebekah Reply:
July 1st, 2011 at 8:21 PM
Thank you! Grendel has a keen eye for photo ops.
[Reply]
Aww. What a cutie!
What does boggling mean behaviorally? My ex-gf had rats but they never did this to me!
[Reply]
Rebekah Reply:
July 1st, 2011 at 8:22 PM
From what I’ve read, rats grind their teeth when happy (“bruxing”), which causes their eyes to pop a bit. Alarming. Said to be the rat equivalent of purring.
[Reply]
I remember when you got those little ladies, it was sooo exciting! :-) I’m glad Grendel is doing well and so are you!
[Reply]
Rebekah Reply:
July 1st, 2011 at 8:22 PM
You helped CHOOSE these little ladies! Who knew you had such excellent taste in rats?
[Reply]
Uh huh.
So was your genius rat actually playing the word game properly, or was she just building forts and castles and stuff with the letter blocks?
[Reply]
Rebekah Reply:
July 1st, 2011 at 8:23 PM
Oh dear.
[Reply]
mum Reply:
July 2nd, 2011 at 9:28 AM
See, I thought when you said boggling you meant she ws playing Boggle with the two of you.
My bad.
[Reply]