There are lots of good care sheets to read and you can use the search engine to discover more particulars on a subject as well! I don't raise rats but I can understand your ethical dilemma; it will be interesting to see how that one plays out! I have a 10 month old Rottie named Jack and also have 3 Betta fish!
We also have Merlin, a Shepard/husky mix, and Mary, a golden retriever. I have balls and am also getting an Aby line boa! Glad you're hear and feel free to chime in!