Regarding prairie dogs, the 25/06 is really a very good calibre for these parts due to the wind. I never use anything smaller than a 6mm/243 (except rimfires), cartridge because the constant winds blow the smaller bullets around quite badly at ranges beyond 300 metres.
Big bores and prairie rats? Absolutely! A great way to practice shooting from various field positions, learn shooting stix, etc. It will also demonstrate quite clearly how well your rifle carries in the field.
I used to take my M70 375 and top it with a 4.5x14 during the off season. I'd zero the rifle at 300 yards with the big Sierra 300s. Great long range bullet! Too much fun trying to land those big boogers on a dog's head at 300-400 yards
I'm working up a light 500 NE prairie dog load now. It will be a 500 grain pill at about 2200fps. I still need to project the estimated muzzle energy to make sure the load will be sufficient to stop the deadly little rodents
And I'm always up for a rimfire dog hunt. Economical, fun, and contributes to the food chain when one leaves the disassembled rats out in plain sight for the raptors and the prairie wolves!