[Oooh, so many questions. It's been a while since Sherlock last met someone so inquisitive. ... At least, he thinks it's been a while. It's hard to remember for sure. Either way, he sits up a bit straighter, grinning.]

I tend not to ask for their help in fights unless I can help it. They're poor, frail creatures, after all. It'd be terrible if they got hurt. But no, it isn't only rats I can charm. My powers affect any species classified as rodent.