It is however possible to hunt the masked animal during the hunting season, provided that one has a hunting or sporting license. New Hampshire, defined by its charming towns and large expanses of wilderness, prohibits the adoption of pet raccoons. Contact your local health department if raccoon exhibits signs of rabies such as stumbling, foaming at the mouth or aggression. Raccoons are generally very clean animals and will groom themselves much like cats do. Some also enjoy playing with toys like balls. They are often causing a lot of issues such as chewing wires, damaging attic vents, or overturning waste containers. Stay up to date on the latest news and events. An exotic animal is defined as an animal which is extremely rare to be kept as a pet, most commonly thought of as a wild species above an indoor house pet. Additionally, their natural behaviors can make them difficult to care for, such as frequent nocturnal activity and the tendency to bite when startled or provoked. And while they are protected under state law, Arizonas raccoons are considered to be a public nuisance, and it is forbidden to adopt them. Raccoons are best known for their furry grey bodies and black mask-like features around their eyes. Raccoon (Coon, Racoon, Ringtail) Raccoons are easy to recognize, with a prominent black mask across the eyes, grizzled gray and black coat, and ringed tail. Because they are so affectionate, many people seek out relationships with these endearing animals. If youre interested in pet raccoons, also check out: Please do your research as to whether owning one of these exotic animals is something you should do. Include toys, such as balls and food puzzles, to keep your pet entertained. The permit is free and will last two years. Violating Virginia's wildlife and exotic animal ownership laws can result in fines, and in some cases, even jail time. If youre hoping to own a wild or exotic animal in Virginia. Are there any legal exotic pets in Virginia you can own without needing a permit? Visit with the animal in person before you commit; don't acquire an animal over the internet or via a classified ad. These permits withhold all types of animal ownership, including scientific, for circuses, education, selling, and more. This is a dangerous risk as there is no known certified vaccination for rabies in place yet. However, one is allowed to hunt and trap them all year round. to own in Virginia. In the state of Delaware, Raccoons are considered wild animals that require a permit to own or rehabilitate. Without the proper understanding of how to care for and handle a crocodile, you could easily get yourself or someone else injured or killed. However, raccoons are too active to be content in a cage for several hours. Indiana 5. , read on to find out the answers to these questions and moreplus, how to easily find pet-friendly home insurance. Even when you try your best to emulate the conditions of a raccoons natural habitat, you are depriving the raccoon of its needs. Native to Texas, the animal is abundant in the area and the state allows Texans to possess a pet raccoon under the condition of receiving an appropriate permit from the Department of Fish and Game. Raccoons can be difficult to have as pets because of the many diseases they may carry. Again, this varies. If you are caught with a raccoon as a pet, you can face serious fines. Riding or sitting on your shoulder is one of the most enjoyable things this animal does to show its affection. And if you have questions about insurance options for your furry, feathered, or scaly companion, Jerrys friendly, experienced team of agents. the animal is in the position to harm another animalthat permit can be suspended. Fair Punishment1001 SW Emkay Drive #100Bend OR 97702. Raccoons as Neighbors. Plan to spend between $30 and $50 per month on average, also budgeting for at least an annual veterinary checkup and any emergency medical care. As for foxes, they are considered by the state not inherently dangerous, and can therefore be possessed. https://www.addl.purdue.edu/newsletters/1997/fall/raccoon.shtml. It's legal to have a pet raccoon in the following states: Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Nebraska, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Michigan, Wyoming, Wisconsin, Texas, Rhode Island, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. However, some states may require a special permit or license before you can keep one as your pet. Other exceptions in which exotic animals are allowed are in circuses. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. In fact, the noticeable animal, with its bandit mask and tiny hands is considered to be injurious wildlife known to be harmful to the indigenous ecosystems and constitute a nuisance and health hazard. It has been done by many, but those people raising their raccoons know how to do so in the most responsible way. The little mammal is fairly popular in Georgia and can be found in both rural and urban areas, and while it is illegal to own a pet raccoon in this state, raccoons remain a popular game animal, specifically for sport hunting. You can legally own a raccoon as a pet in sixteen states. In addition, their "masked bandit" reputation doesn't just come from the dark markings around their eyes. As well as this, you have to recognize that raccoons are one of the largest spreaders of disease, most commonly rabies. Indeed, raccoon hunting is widely popular in the region and there are many raccoon hunter clubs and competitions being held yearly. Raccoons are present in New Mexico, but the state prohibits the adoption of pet raccoons due to the potential for the spread of rabies and other zoonotic diseases. For instance, raccoons are relatively clean mammals. Raccoons are illegal in the majority of states not only for the unethicalness of possessing an exotic animal, but for the wellbeing of the public. T he government has classified them as non-native species that are a highly invasive risk to native wildlife species and biodiversity. The Secret Life of Red Foxes: How They Fight and Protect Their Families. How do I add someone to my car insurance policy? It is unlawful to possess 6 or more bobcat, coyote, deer, gray fox, red fox, opossum, quail, rabbit, raccoon and squirrel. It also designated the nocturnal mammal as the official wild animal symbol of Tennessee in 1971. . If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. You do not want your raccoon to feel trapped and uncomfortable. Raccoons are affectionate, and they love to cuddle. If you find a raccoon that has been domesticated or rehabilitated, they can be a loving and playful pet. A hunting or trapping license is also required to hunt or trap them during the open season. No long forms. Oklahoma 8. In order to acquire a raccoon as a personal pet in Florida (or other wild animals such as opossum, lemur, spider monkey, or zebra), one has to be over 16 years old and get a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. was wonderful! Not all states condone the upbringing of exotic animals. Especially for a raccoon who are notoriously known to be riddled with disease, it is essential that the owner is able to take care of it in the best way possible. In addition to this legislation, it is forbidden by law to kill a raccoon without a hunting or trapping permit. As well as this, you will not be able to have your wild pet taken care of by a vet if these permits are not provided. These permits include a Rehabilitation Permit, Permit to Hold Game in Captivity, or a Scientific Research Permit. It may therefore be hunted during the prescribed hunting and trapping seasons. Finding a veterinarian for your exotic pet. And as active animals, they need lots of space to roam. Oklahoma, in addition to allowing its citizens to possess a pet raccoon (on condition that one has a license from the Director of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation), has designated the wild animal as the official state-furbearing animal in 1989. Pet raccoons are expensive after factoring in the many investments you will need to make throughout your lifetime. They may carry diseases, such as rabies or leptospirosis, which can be spread to humans and other animals. Raccoons are omnivores, meaning they eat both meat and plants. As well as this, if your pet raccoon was to get lost and find itself having to live with other raccoons in the wild, they will more than likely not live a long life. Economically, this wild animal is an important furbearer in Connecticut and is harvested during the hunting and trapping seasons each year. The most common and well-known is the North American raccoon from northern Canada and most of the United States from south-to-South America.It has a bright black mask between the eyes and a tail with 5 to 10 black stripes. Raccoons are prone to chewing on cords, climbing on shelves, and knocking down valuables. Nebraskans can perceive the little creature all over the region and are allowed to have a pet raccoon, under the condition that they have a captive wildlife permit. We would also suggest calling your home insurer, to see if they will cover damage from a pet raccoon. In addition to possible disease transmission, pet raccoons can also be disruptive to local ecosystems, taking food away from native wildlife and adversely impacting the balance of nature. Raccoons have an impressive set of skills that make them quite adept at finding food. In Florida, you must possess a Captive Wildlife License, which claims you can care for an exotic animal. The unmistakable raccoon is abundant and widespread throughout the state, yet, it is illegal to own a pet raccoon. According to the Michigan Compiled Laws, raccoons can only undergo rehabilitation if you donate them to an AZA zoo, ASA, or animal sanctuary. We also get your email address to automatically create an account for you in our website. This is due to the fact that they are wild animals and could potentially be dangerous if kept in captivity. Exotic Animal Laws by State.Findlaw, https://www.findlaw.com/injury/torts-and-personal-injuries/exotic-animal-laws-by-state.html. These states are: However, even though there are laws against the ownership of raccoons, those laws do not necessarily apply to all exotic animals. In order to adopt this wild animal, it is however necessary to receive a permit from the state. Since 2016, the Britain government has strictly forbidden keeping a raccoon as a pet. And captivity can greatly stress a wild animal even to the point of killing it. Abiding by regulations may include obtaining licensure or something else to ensure the animal remains safe while in human captivity. And with the development of infrastructure and housing, particularly around the water streams, their population has increased dramatically. This isnt only important for the sake of the animals wellbeing, but for the safety of the public. In addition to checking the laws surrounding ownership, look carefully at regulations for raccoon owners. Legislation that went into effect in October 2020 also makes it illegal to own or breed any bird, mammal, reptile, or amphibianlisted under the federal Lacey Act. Failure to attain a permit can lead to a fine as well as the removal of your animal. Local law is also a thing and is something that people look past. It is illegal to keep raccoons in captivity due to the potential public health risks posed by rabies and other raccoon-borne illnesses. Big cat species like lions, tigers, and jaguars. So, there are plenty of animals you cant keep as pets in Virginia. Depending on the purpose of pet ownership, the reasoning for the permit might be different. This requirement is intended to safeguard both the public and the raccoons from potential harm and prevent the spread of serious diseases like rabies. the animal is in the position to harm another animalthat permit can be suspended. There is no limit to the number of exotic or wild animals you can possess in Florida. Local ordinances are usually more restrictive than state laws. Despite this interdiction, the black-mask-ringed-tail animal is very common in the state of Colorado, both in urban and rural areas. 1. Plus, raccoons have dietary needs and health issues that can be difficult to manage. In order to do this, they have to fill out and submit a wild game permit application. Plus, they have established latrine areas, which means they are already litterbox trained. If you want to own pets that are native to your state, pack your bags and move to Arkansas where you can own native animals such as bobcats, foxes, raccoons, and coyotes. But it's also ideal to take some of it to put in food puzzles or hide around their enclosure as a form of enrichment. Members save $872/year. Overall, they are unpredictable. Opossum, porcupine, weasel, red squirrel, ground squirrel and feral swine can also be taken year-round with a valid Michigan hunting license. Be sure to provide your raccoon with a suitable living space. The state also recommends its residents be wary of raccoons visiting their property and try to discourage them by capping chimneys, eliminating bird feeders, or removing decorative water fountains for instance. Wyoming. Despite their common presence, Virginia laws strictly prohibit its residents from keeping pet raccoons or trying to raise them without a rehabilitation permit. Yet, it is by far the most important furbearer in terms of total pelt value and number harvested in the state. These active and mischievous animals need consistent supervision and lots of toys and other enrichment to keep them entertained. Answer: Absolutely not. Only in 14 of 50 states are you allowed to keep a raccoon as a pet. to help you make that insurance shopping process a little easier. And some do enjoy cuddling with their humans. A raccoon can make a great pet because of its playful nature. Adoption opportunities are usually few and far between for raccoons unless you are part of a wildlife rehabilitation network. It is important to acknowledge that your raccoon, even though it is domesticated, is a wild animal at heart. Bats play important roles in their ecosystems, but they can be. I share a car with my friend/roommate. (Yet you can't own an alligator.) It has not been previewed, commissioned or otherwise endorsed by any of our network partners. Lions, tigers, bearsdont own any of them without a permit in Virginia. Consult your veterinarian for the quantity and variety that is best for your animal, as this can vary based on age, size, and activity level. Where is it legal to own a raccoon? They are common in the area and can be hunted for their fur during the New Hampshire hunting and trapping season, which runs from September to March. They are mostly active at night and rely on their keen senses of smell and hearing to detect potential meals. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. One interesting fact about these animals is that they can remember how to solve complex problems for months at a time. The affectionate pet raccoon will sit on your shoulder. How much does it cost to add another driver to my car insurance? These natural behaviors are difficult for the raccoon to unlearn, especially if you adopt them and try taming them at an older age. Michigan 6. They are primal and have the instinct to scavenge, including digging through trash. So, you must be prepared to invest significant amounts of money if you intend on owning pet raccoons. They are protected by law. However, providing the right environment for them is difficult. While owning a pet raccoon is unlawful, it is possible to hunt them. Depending on the species, it could harm other people or animalsor it could establish itself as an invasive species in the local environment and create problems for local wildlife and agriculture. Despite being nocturnal animals, pet raccoons will come out to play with their owners during the daytime. Are you able to provide a proper and enriching environment for the animal? In some cases, there are exceptions when it comes to owning an exotic animal like a raccoon, even in states that forbid them. However, some states may require a special permit or license before you can keep one as your pet. Elephants are incredibly complex creatures, and keeping them in captivity doesnt suit them well. Lianne McLeod, DVM, is a small animal and exotic pet expert with over a decade of experience writing about veterinary care. Residents of Washington may encounter raccoons often but it is unlawful to adopt a pet raccoon: like coyotes, squirrels, or foxes, raccoons are protected under state laws. Should You Keep a Panther Chameleon as a Pet? In California, it is illegal to keep raccoons as pets due to their classification as wild animals. Raccoons are abundant in Kansas, specifically in the east where water and woodlands can be found but it is illegal to possess a pet raccoon in Kansas. The raccoon cannot normally forage, establish territory, and perform normal mating rituals. The average adult raccoon measures between 20 and 40 inches long and typically weighs 10 to 30 pounds. It only takes about 45 seconds to answer a few quick questions and start comparing customized quotes from top insurance providers.. Raccoons are a common sight in the region. Avoid letting it roam free on the streets you dont know what it can do. they live for roughly ten to fifteen years. The permits cost $10 each. Ideally, they should be allowed to move freely around your living area and provided with branches, shelves, and other items to climb for exercise. So anything that might injure them or become damaged must be removed from their area. 2023 Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. However, it may be rare to see a raccoon in Yellowstone National Park, but the species is present in the northern parts of the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem and throughout the state more generally. For example, what happens to your raccoon if it gets loose? Raccoons are very difficult to care for, as they need regular supervision and ample space. People like these animals because they are similar to their house pets now. My brother and I have decided to share a car to cut costs. A Class 2 misdemeanor in Virginia could result in, up to six months in prison and/or a $1,000 fine, , while a Class 3 misdemeanor wont require any jail time but could result in a, If you were in possession of a wild or exotic animal permit but violated any of the requirements that come with it, you could have your permit revoked or suspended for. It is illegal in the State of Virginia to trap and relocate an animal to another area. It is clear that much hard work goes into taking care of a raccoon and due to many factors, the needs of the raccoon cannot always be met. The Rehabilitation Permit allows humans to house wild animals temporarily while rehabilitating them. After caring for animals in her veterinarian practice, Lianne went on to study biology and research water quality and chronic disease at theUniversity of Saskatchewan. Raccoons, domesticated or not, are prone to biting (and they will bite anything from their family to other animals). You should learn how much is the right amount to feed them; as raccoons grow older, you should begin to limit their food intake accordingly. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Se Insurance Cost, Cadillac Escalade Esv Platinum Insurance Cost. But this also means that dealing with the issues caused by these wild animals presents some challenges. If a person wishes to possess other animals not originally from the state and not listed above then the person must show upon request verification that the animal was legally acquired in the previous state. Before even considering a pet raccoon, you shouldbe aware of your local and state/provincial laws. It is important to put the lives of your family, friends, and neighbors before the raccoon and this is done by looking after it responsibly. These permits are either non-game wildlife, educational/scientific, or wildlife rehabilitation. They can also be great fun once your raccoon has been domesticated you will find they are very playful. The most important thing to acknowledge when owning a raccoon is to remember that its home is the wild. Sixteen states allow you to own a raccoon legally. Owning a raccoon dog in the UK is not allowed by law. The sixteen states which allow you to own raccoons legally include: Each state has its regulations and rules for owning exotic or wild raccoons. You can find a more comprehensive list in the. There are strict restrictions placed on them, meaning they can no longer be bred or sold within the borders of the United Kingdom. It's only legal in 16 states to own pet raccoons. Keeping raccoons as pets has been outlawed in many states because of these risks; individuals who violate this law in Alabama risk facing criminal charges and steep fines. If you are feeding wildlife, stop. Today, raccoons offer important recreational and economic opportunities to Wisconsinites. Delaware 3. Pennsylvania regulates the ownership of raccoons. Possessing a raccoon could lead to fines and even criminal charges, depending on the circumstances. Is it legal to keep a raccoon as a pet in Ohio? Raccoons can become relatively tame around people, but they'll never become fully domesticated. They need space to roam, climb, and explore to be happy. Raccoons are legal to own as pets in the US states of Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Captive raccoons can be prone to obesity if they aren't given enough space to roam. However, they also are generally quick to biteeven their favorite peoplewhen something annoys or scares them. However, hunting is a popular activity in Tennessee, and hunting raccoons is no exception: the state considers them as a hunted species. However, their sharp claws and teeth can easily destroy your property. But because they are protected under state law, they cannot be relocated. Unfortunately, you can't own a raccoon in the UK. Iowa People believe it to be unethical as wild animals should be out in the open in their natural habitat, it also known that not many vets work with raccoons, and they can also carry all sorts of diseases (a raccoons droppings can contain roundworm which is infectious to even humans). A Game Breeders License is required for people breeding raccoons in Indiana. to people, thanks to their sharp horns and massive strength. Although raccoons are not native to Alaska, it is still possible to find them in the state, but not to have pet raccoons. It goes without saying, but. The owning of a raccoon has been approved by a veterinarian. Delaware is one of the few states that allow its inhabitants to have a pet raccoon. Many will damage your home and belongings as part of their daily antics, are difficult to truly tame, and are notorious biters when something bothers them. You hear of owning a dog, a cat, some people even own rats and parrots, but have you ever heard of owning a raccoon? Treats, such as nuts and other fatty foods, should be offered sparingly to prevent obesity. Raccoons aren't common pets for good reason. It Is Ethically Wrong To Keep Raccoons As Pets. According to Wisconsin Watch, no laws regulate private pet ownership in Wisconsin. It is unlawful for anyone to shelter, breed, or raise raccoons without a permit. Remove bird feeders when problem species have been seen around them. Never take a raccoon from the wild to raise as a pet. Raccoons are easy to take care of. The state laid out advice to prevent these conflicts such as keeping pet food indoors, or fastening garbage can slides with rubber straps. They are nevertheless unprotected by Nevadas legislation and can be hunted and harvested for their fur. But beware of the negatives which come with owning a raccoon. It may seem like a strange idea to some but there are many people out there who either want to own or already own a raccoon. It is illegal to own a pet raccoon as a pet in Australia. Jerry automatically shops for your insurance before every renewal. The owner also may be able to get away with owning an exotic pet if they were granted ownership before laws were put in place. They like to dunk their food in their water dish prior to consuming it. These diseases can potentially be dangerous for the animals currently living in those environments. Courtesy of. You cannot legally own a raccoon as a pet in Canada. You must have a special permit to own raccoons in Rhode Island, like all other exotic animals. Additionally, each state has its own set of rules and regulations when it comes to keeping these animals as pets so make sure to check with your local government agencies before obtaining a raccoon. There are a lot of pet owners in the state of Vermont, but none of them may possess a pet raccoon. For instance, some states don't allow the importation of raccoons from other states. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. For long term, however, you will need to make sure that you have enough room to create a large and spacious living space for your new pet. Indeed, the animal has accounted for half of the annual furbearer harvest, and for approximately 60% of the economic return from the state fur harvesting in recent years. These exciting behaviors are common for the playful raccoon. It is strictly illegal to own a pet raccoon in Kentucky, and no individual is allowed to have the wild animal as a pet in their home. In some areas, the laws are quite harsh regarding the treatment of wild animals kept as pets, and they might lead to your pet being euthanized if it's problematic in the community. That is why laws are put into place. Know what you are feeding your raccoon. In addition to state-level laws, certain cities and counties in Virginia have additional regulations regarding keeping certain exotic pets, so its a good idea to review whether any apply to you before seeking out an unusual pet. 7 Kinds of Primates That Are Kept as Pets, Serval Cat: Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care. So they are best kept solo. They naturally establish latrine sites, making it easy to create animal pins with concentrated mess areas. The state has recently passed legislation that allows year-round hunting and trapping for raccoons (as well as opossums). Thats probably for the best, considering theyre incredibly strong and hard to contain, and their excellent hunting skills would pose a public safety threat to people if they were to get loose. They are wild animals, only coming out at night due to being nocturnal, and can be dangerous if approached the wrong way. The legislation that prevents owning a raccoon dog is the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which makes it illegal to keep or release any animal which is not a traditional pet. Many people build their own pen from wood and screening. Although pet raccoons are illegal in Montana, these wild animals are native to the region and can be found everywhere in the state. This is all down to the health and safety of the citizens, and it is safer for all to keep the two separate. More than rats, raccoons are the most widespread animal in New York State. The Wyoming law authorizes Wyomingites to keep pet raccoons as well as other animals such as ostriches, coyotes, and red foxes without any permits. Resident landowners and tenants can trap a raccoon that is causing damage on their own property without a permit from the DNR. There are a few things that you should consider before adopting a pet raccoon. The permits cost $10 each. Texas 12. They might bite even their favorite people and are often destructive in the home. Coyotes, raccoons, skunks and woodchuck are not protected and can be taken year-round when they are doing or about to do damage on private property. The best way to prevent them from becoming a problem is to not give them a reason to come. , it's illegal to own animals like bears, wolves, crocodiles, and big cat species without a permit. You cannot legally own a raccoon as a pet in Canada. Get expert advice to help your pet live its best life, Pros & Cons of Keeping a Raccoon as a Pet. No, you can't own a pet raccoon in the state of Wisconsin. Inside, your raccoon should have access to food, water, shelter, and structures (e.g., large branches) for climbing and jumping. You must have an exotic pet license to own an exotic pet in Oklahoma. Additionally, food for your pet raccoon will be costlier than the food needed for domestic animals like dogs or cats. Allow your raccoon to feel like it is in the wild with plenty of space, company, places to explore. Coloring Books, Find cities with a similar climate Without permits, people in Indiana cannot own the following: foxes, raccoons, skunks, wolves, bears, wild cats, venomous reptiles, or crocodiles. When a state makes owning certain animals as pets illegal, its usually for the well-being of people, other animals, the local ecosystem, or local agriculture., But since pet laws can vary so much from one place to another, you might not realize your once-legal exotic pet is now an outlaw after youve relocated to a new state. With the possession of a raccoon, the law changes and this is because they are considered exotic animals.
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