Community Resources for Rat Owners
It can be challenging to find veterinarians who treat rats. Thankfully, Richmond has a wealth of options for pet owners to receive care for exotic pets for both wellness and sick visits, in addition to 24 hour emergency care. See below for some wonderful options available to us in the Richmond community.
Locke Taylor Veterinary Hospital
Drs Lynch and Greenwalt have seen and treated many rats throughout their careers. Drs. Lynch and Greenwalt see rats on the Glen Allen location. They have extended hours from 6-8 on Mondays and Wednesdays. They will neuter rats, but do not do spays. Locke Taylor is not technically a low-cost clinic, but is quite affordable. They accept Care Credit and will go above and beyond to help your rat as best they can. They are especially great if your rats get mites, URIs or other minor illnesses. Do not assume that because they charge less that your baby will receive lesser care! Locke Taylor has treated countless fosters and have performed MANY tumor removals and neuters for us and are very competent surgeons as well!
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10222 Staples Mill Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060
Drs Rice and Haile are extremely competent exotic veterinarians and have treated and saved the lives of many of the rats at SCH over the years. Their calm office and quiet music are designed to make the experience as minimally stressful for your rats as possible.
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13825 Village Mill Dr, Midlothian, VA 23114
Emergency or After Hours Vets
Most emergency veterinarians in or around Richmond do not see rats to treat, but will make an exception to euthanize, though they may not let you be present. Dogwood, VRCC, and VCC all do not treat rats.
​Pender Vet sees rats on an emergency and after hours basis in Fairfax, VA.
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4001 Legato Rd, Fairfax, VA 22033
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Stahl Exotics (SEAVS) sees rats as well. They are very knowledgable and compassionate. They do both regular visits and emergency care on Saturdays. They are also located in Fairfax.
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4105 Rust Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
Pet Loss Support Group
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Fetch A Cure offers free group pet loss support sessions every month with Dr. Leslie Greenberg. Â If you are struggling after the loss of a rat, you will be welcomed and understood at any and all meetings you choose to attend. Â We are very lucky to have this resource in Richmond.
Cremation Services
Agape Pet Services has many beautiful urns and memorial items to choose from to make sure that your beloved rats are always with you. From necklaces to clay pawprints or nose prints, your companions will be treated with kindness and dignity as they make their way back home to you.
Standard urn and clay pawprints from Agape
The standard urns at Agape Pet Services say "In Loving Memory" and your pet's name. You are able to customize the front plate up to three lines