Short but sweet: Baby rat servant who wishes to remain anonymous demonstrates how to stroke a baby to help her quiet down. Exposure to human skin and touch is critical to helping the baby gain trust. Touching is a form of grooming. Watch how baby quiets when her cheeks and ears are stroked. And she rewards her human with little kisses. Videographer is Karen Borga and setting is RodentFest 2009, Leesport, Pennsylvania.

Constantinethe2nd12, baby rat, studies his human. Thanks to Diamond Bobby-Sue.

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Storm Rat and Jessica kiss. Marisol and Snowflake in the background. Thanks to Andrea Fuja for permission to post photo.

Rogue's babies grooming Diamond Bobby Sue. "This is a litter of ratties just turning 5 weeks and in the middle of separating from mom, they decided to groom me for awhile."

Lila cuddles with me, nervous about the camera but wanting to be with me (near it) nevertheless.

Melody licks me furiously, seeking reassurance about the camera, which was new and scary.

Bonny and Chancy, best buds, droop limply in my hands. They love hanging out there getting scritched and massaged. They have had lots of practice in my hands.

These are not baby rats but I want to advertise, KISS YOUR RATS!

Best Buds Bonny and Chancy ("Chance-ee") snuggle in my hand. Chancy dozes.