Louisiana couple to keep rescued pet rodent after state tried to seize him on health grounds

Louisiana couple, Emily and William High, have recently won a legal battle to keep their pet rodent, a Gambian pouched rat named Mr. Mousie Pants. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries had tried to seize Mr. Mousie Pants on alleged health grounds, claiming that the rodent posed a threat to the state’s native wildlife, and had requested that the couple hand him over. However, the Highs decided to fight the case, and a court eventually ruled in their favor. This is a unique case as Gambian pouched rats are not typically kept as pets and are known to be illegal in some states. These species are known for their high intelligence and have been trained to detect landmines and tuberculosis. Although many may not consider a rat a typical pet, these creatures can form a close bond with their owners, as has been demonstrated by the Highs and Mr. Mousie Pants. It is important to note that owning pets, regardless of their species, should be done responsibly, and pet owners should adhere to any regulations or laws governing pet ownership in their area.