HISTORY

The Australian Rat Fanciers Society was formed in 1996, in Melbourne, to address the lack
of reliable information regarding pet rats and their care, and also to provide support and social forums for rat  owners.

The AusRFS became an Incorporated Association in 2005.

The term “Rat Fanciers” comes from the old English expression meaning “one that keeps rats as a fancy or hobby”.
It is used to convey a sense of the history of rat keeping. Rats have been kept as pets since the 16th century,
and the first rat shows were conducted in Queen Victoria’s time.

AusRFS Victoria
P.O. Box 5001
Hughesdale 3166

ausrfs_vic@hotmail.com

0401 741 162

AIMS & OBJECTIVES
 

To show the public what wonderful pets rats can be.

To educate and provide information about how to care for pet rats.

To promote responsible pet ownership and breeding practices.

To raise awareness of the differences between domesticated pet rats and wild rats.

To provide social forums for rat owners.

To operate a rescue service to help rats in need.

To maintain a register of reputable ratteries.

To encourage purchasing rats from registered breeders or AusRFS Rescue Service.

To offer opportunities for owners to show their rats.

ACTIVITIES & SERVICES
 

Displays are held at many pet expos, community events and agricultural shows around Melbourne and rural Victoria
throughout the year. For a full list of events, go to the calendar section of the Website.

Rat Shows are held in conjunction with a number of AusRFS displays.

Rat Care Advice Lines provide information and advice about rat care and welfare. This service is
available to members & the general public alike.

Rescue Service saves and rehomes abandoned and surrendered rats. Most of the money raised by the
AusRFS goes towards helping rats in need.

Registered Ratteries a register of ethical, responsible rat breeders who have passed the society’s strict
registration process. This process includes testing of rat knowledge, monitoring of rat keeping practices and
inspections of premises.

Boarding Service can care for rats when their owners go on holidays.

Website provides information about the AusRFS and rats in general, also an online shop selling rat
related items. www.ausrfs.org.au

On-line Forum where rat lovers all over Australia and beyond can chat and share information.
Enter via the website.

Publications a range of printed material, is produced, including a comprehensive Information Booklet,
which covers most aspects of rat care.

Support for other organisations donations are made to RSPCA, Lort Smith, Wildlife Victoria and
several animal shelters.