Phobia of handling rats since being bitten?

Question

Okay, here's the scoop.

I work in a pet shop, and one day I was cleaning out all the animals. I cleaned out the hamsters, guineas, rabbits, and shop floor rats without problem, then I went into quarintene and reached across this one rat to grab something behind it. I know this rat because it's been in the back for ages, and I know it was timid but not vicious. However, it suddenly bit me- it didn't draw blood, it just hurt. Turns out the rat was hurt- it had a cut on its neck- and it thought I was going to touch it, which I understand- I don't mind rats, don't think they're 'evil', but since this point I've always been worried when handling rats, espcially squeakers.

How do I get over this sudden fear?

Answer 1

To get over the fear just think what's the worst that can happen.  At the very very  worst the rat could bite you and draw blood, sound bad right?  but paper cuts hurt too, you can't be afraid of handling paper all the time.  And the rat you talk of had a reason, he was scared.  I had a rat for 6 yrs and it would nibble once and awhile never bite hard.  And if he did, whats the worst thing, alittle blood and a bandaid?  Hitting your funny bone in the arm would hurt worse.  And if anyone should be worried, its the rat, when in reality you could easy crush them with no problem.  To the rats you look like a giant.  When handling any animal there is the same amount of risk, so if you are gonna worry about the rats you should should worry about all the animals.  Just forget about it.  Its like saying you could get in a plane crash or auto accident, but you gonna let that keep you from going places?

It'll get better.

Answer 2

Well, it was hurt so I guess you could understand that he was paranoid or afraid something or someone would try to hurt it even more. If your that worried, maybe you could start wearing thicker gloves when handling them. Or if youre allowed to, put something in there that they can gnaw on. Maybe next time they bite it wont be as sharp. Ive had alot of hamsters before.

Answer 3

Be more aware of the rats and their bodies.  If you see a rat that is hurt, avoid it.  Really, the only way to get over a fear is to keep handling the rats.  I have four pet rats.  I have one that does tricks, cuddles, and sleeps with me.  But, I found out the hard way that he likes to play a little too rough.  He was playing with my hand and got overly excited.  His teeth went into my hand and I jerked my hand away.  Thus, resulting in 4 stitches.  Lol. I've just learned that I can't play with him the same way as my other three rats.

Answer 4

just know that rats aren't as vicious as most say they are, and in any case, familiarize yourself with the rat that bit you, talk gently to it, and get to know it. Maybe you just scared it and being the rat was timid he thought you were going to hurt it.