NEED TO KNOW

• MSPCA-Angell took in 163 rats, the organization’s largest animal surrender in five years

• Partner shelters across Massachusetts and New Hampshire stepped in to help with the rescue

• Dozens of smart, social rats are now in need of loving forever homes

MSPCA-Angell is on the hunt for dozens of loving homes after taking in 163 rats from a single Essex County property — the largest surrender of its kind the nonprofit has seen in at least five years.

According to a press release obtained by PEOPLE, MSPCA-Angell Law Enforcement removed the animals from the Massachusetts home on Monday, Feb. 9. The release noted that the number of rats from this one rescue is nearly 60% higher than the total number of rats the organization adopted out in all of 2025.

“This is the largest surrender of its kind we’ve seen in at least five years,” Mike Keiley, vice president of MSPCA-Angell’s animal protection division, said in a statement. “A well-meaning person got into a tough spot, and we were able to help.”

“As a humane law enforcement department, we want to work with people who love their animals to make sure those animals are getting the care they need,” he added. “Sometimes that means helping with resources, other times it means facilitating a surrender, which was the case here.”

Given the sheer number of whiskered newcomers, the MSPCA-Angell quickly called in reinforcements. Of the 163 rats, 53 remain in MSPCA-Angell’s direct care. The others were transferred to partner organizations across Massachusetts and New Hampshire, including the Dakin Humane Society, the Lowell Humane Society, the Berkshire Humane Society, the Animal Rescue League of Boston, the New Hampshire SPCA, and the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire.

“Taking in so many of one kind of small animal or bird really taxes resources,” Keiley explained. “It pulls our attention to accommodating one species when we’re caring for so many at the same time.”

As of writing, the MSPCA-Angell has more than 70 rats in its care. The animals are being split among the group’s shelters in Boston, Methuen, Salem, and Centerville. “Usually, the [Northeast Animal Shelter] only houses cats and dogs, but given the size of this case, we had to engage all our locations,” Keiley shared, noting that many of the female rats are currently on gestation hold but will be available for adoption soon.

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And for anyone on the fence about fostering or adopting one of the rodents? Keiley has a gentle nudge.

“Rats have a bad reputation, but they actually make really great companion pets,” he explained. “They’re smart and clean. They also form deep bonds with their owners. We’re hoping that rat lovers — and anyone looking for a less conventional small pet — come out and give these great animals the happy homes they deserve!”

Read the original article on People