The loss of any companion animal can be a particularly difficult time for you and your family, especially if you are faced with having to explain the death to young children who will probably have a harder time comprehending the magnitude of the event. We realize, in many cases, it is especially difficult to cope with for those of us who keep rats as pets because of the fact that their life expectancy is only about 2-3 years. We hope these resources will help you and your family find support, hope, and resolution in your grieving process.