Every day, I work closely with rats at my rattery, Cryptic Critter Rattery, and through my rescue activities. These experiences have shown me that rats are intelligent, social animals deserving of proper care and respect. However, in some schools, specifically the Clark high school of Las Vegas, rats are being used in classroom projects without a clear ethical plan for their care, long-term housing, or placement afterward. This practice is not only irresponsible but also deeply concerning to those of us who understand the value and complexity of these creatures.

Rats are not disposable tools for temporary educational projects. They are living beings that require thoughtful attention, structured care, and a clear plan for their wellbeing. Without such a plan, rats often end up neglected, misplaced, or needing urgent rescue once these educational projects finish. I do not believe rats should be the students responsibility seeing as how they didn’t want this pet in the first place and they do not receive proper instructions on care so many of them die in the first few days or they are simply neglected. Children are not always responsible pet owners. 

Research has found that rats exhibit empathy, problem-solving abilities, and social bonding similar to that of more traditionally appreciated pets like dogs and cats. Despite their talents and abilities, these amazing creatures are frequently overlooked and inadvertently subjected to suffering when they're carelessly used in educational settings. 

Furthermore, the irresponsible use of animals in classrooms teaches students the wrong values. It inadvertently communicates that living beings can be used and discarded at convenience, rather than promoting compassion, responsibility, and respect for all creatures. 

To address this issue, I call upon educational institutions and governing bodies to implement ethical guidelines that prioritize the welfare of animals used in educational settings. This should include comprehensive care plans, post-project placement strategies, and partnerships with sanctuaries and rescues. 

By doing this, schools will not only protect these animals but also set a positive example for students, teaching them the importance of empathy and responsibility towards all life.

Please join me in urging this school to end the unethical use of rats, and instead, adopt humane and responsible practices in education. Sign this petition to demand changes that respect the lives and wellbeing of these intelligent animals. Together, we can pave the way for a more compassionate and ethical use of animals in the Clark high school and other schools that may practice this project.