Showing
I'm a member of the NFRS, MRC, NERS and ERC and try to make it to as many shows as possible, mainly for the social aspect (although it gives me great pride to show off my babies!); I've made many good friends via showing, including most of the breeders who I seek advice from.
I consider showing - or at least belonging to clubs - an important aspect of breeding as it's the best way to get unbiased critiques from a number of judges. The elements that make up a good show rat include not only colour and type (conformation) but size (part of type), health and condition as well - all of which (with the exception of colour) contribute greatly to breeding lovely pets.
Only rats who I consider to be 100% on the day of the show are shown; for a rat being in a show is like running a marathon so it's important to only exhibit those who are feeling their best.
BIS - Best In Show
RBIS - Reserve Best In Show
BOA - Best Opposite Age
AO - Adult Owned
Special awards (pet) in italics
