The rats are trained to search for human odor. In the case of an earthquake, for example, the rats would be sent in. If they come across a human, a brain recognition pattern would be detectable, and the rescue team would know an area to search for survivors. Rats are obviously much more able than dogs or humans to get into small spaces and have an excellent sense of smell.
As creepy as I think rats are, I would be quite happy to see one of these guys if I was, say, trapped under three floors of rubble.
I knew those things served a purpose in this world. Pretty cool stuff though. I wonder though what is to prevent the rats from simply taking off?
Domesticated ats are intelligent, loving, humorous animals. As pets, they form bonds with their humans and their rat buddies, caring for the sick, old, and young (rats) in their pack. They excel most dogs in problem solving skills, too. If only they could talk!