Purchasing lab strains?

[sorraia]

Very good advice sorraia, and that's exactly what prompted my thinking about this (actually I think it was one of your other posts on line breeding). I figure if they're being used for research then they'll have to be genetically very consistent so there shouldn't be any surprises lurking, but it turns out there are dozens of lines and the vast majority are selectively bred with faults (as expected). It looks like Taconic will do it, but of the two lines that are suitable (sort of general purpose rats) I'd be looking at $20-35 per rat plus shipping costs.

If you go with lab rats, general purpose would probably be the best bet. $20-35 actually isn't too bad, if I may say so. Rats from show/pet breeders would run about that amount too, though some will give discounts if multiples are purchased. Shipping is what will kill you though. I don't know what kind of deals the labs have, but among pet breeders, you are looking at $100 just for the plane ticket. With additional supplies (carrier, health certificates if needed, mileage reimbursement, etc) it can climb to $200 or more. I personally never shipped rats, too expensive.

It's too bad you're moving across the country. There's enough breeders out this way that could help you out when you were ready.