shelliebear,
I didn't want to say it on the help thread but I was thinking it. Rats will defend themselves. How is the little fellow doing? I hope he is well!! A small freezer in my area isn't very much cash I think about 60 bucks perhaps if your mom objects to frozen rats next to the ice cream (Not really that unreasonable) A small separate freezer tucked in some dark corner with just rats might not be so bad. Just a thought.
I really hope you snake that was bit is ok!
Alex