I've had a couple of pet rats in the past. It's possible this is someone's pet (and if so, bless you for trying to find the owner), but it could be a wild rat that is sick, too. We had one in our driveway that just stood there staring at me instead of running off. I don't know if it was old, or sick, or what. In any case, be careful if you handle it. You might try contacting the American Fancy Rat and Mouse Association. Maybe they could identify it, and might have someone who would be willing to adopt it. http://www.afrma.org/showdate.htm Good luck! Linda