01/26/2026
Policies & Procedures Update!
As Tails of Whimsy continues to grow, I want to share a few updates and clarifications regarding our application, reservation, and adoption procedures. These guidelines are in place to keep the process transparent, fair, and centered around what is best for the rats.
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✨Application, Reservation, & Waitlist Process✨
Tails of Whimsy places rats primarily through a waitlist / reservation-based system.
To be added to the waitlist:
• An application must be submitted
• A 100% reservation fee (equal to the total cost of the rats) is required to hold your place
(Nothing further is due at pickup)
Once on the waitlist, adopters can expect:
• Regular updates from pairing through birth
• Growth and development updates once babies arrive
• Ongoing communication from the time a reservation is placed until pickup
• Help ensuring cage setups, supplies, and environments are fully ready before rats go home
• Direct access to me via cell phone for questions, guidance, and support
• Group text with fellow adopters
• Lifelong support for the duration of your rats’ lives, not just during the adoption process
Placements are made based on reservation order and availability.
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Pairs vs. Trios
Rats are a highly social, colony-based species, which is why Tails of Whimsy requires rats to be adopted with companions. Pairs remain the minimum adoption number.
However, both current research and long-term observation show that rats often thrive best socially in groups of three or more. Because of this, while pairs are still permitted, starting with a trio is strongly encouraged, particularly for new rat owners.
To support this approach:
• New adopters choosing to start with a trio may be given placement preference over those adopting pairs, when possible
• This preference exists to encourage optimal social dynamics while still allowing flexibility for individual circumstances
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A Final Note
These procedures are meant to set clear expectations while ensuring every placement is thoughtful and responsible. I truly value the relationships built with adopters and remain committed to supporting both you and your rats long after pickup day.
Thank you for trusting Tails of Whimsy and for being part of this community.
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– Gabrielle, Tails of Whimsy