Fancy Rat & Mouse Show Heading To Riverside County

WOODCREST, CA — Critters that make many people recoil in fear will appear for a show in Woodcrest this weekend to demonstrate why their reputation as pests isn't always deserved — and how they can be fun pets.

The American Fancy Rat & Mouse Association on Saturday will hold its annual "Fancy Rat & Mouse Show" at the Woodcrest Community Center, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

"The main purpose ... is to promote and encourage the breeding and exhibition of fancy rats and mice," according to an AFRMA statement. "We also educate the public on their positive qualities as companion animals."

Pet rats will compete for titles like "Most Affectionate," "Biggest," "Most Laid Back" and "Most Unusual Markings."

Pet mice may will vie for cutest, friendliest, most inquisitive and "Best Pet."

The rats and mice will be in cages, but they will also be available to touch and interact with — under their handlers' supervision.

The show is free and open to the public, and people of all ages are welcome, according to organizers. Keepers will provide information on how to breed, keep, feed, train and generally treat the animals.

The AFRMA was founded in 1983 and holds events throughout Southern California every year.
Additional information is available at http://www.afrma.org/.