The answer is no, for several reasons. Will 5G Impact Our Cell Phone Plans (or Our Health?! Many states do not allow possession of raccoons. Yes as long as they have a state permit to own almost any animal in this state from skunks and raccoons to tigers and bears. You’ll also need to make sure your home is safe for the animal, which may mean locking cabinet doors, keeping chemicals locked up and keeping your trash out of reach. If I get a baby raccoon from a licensed raccoon breeder can I have one as a pet in Colorado?? Large carnivores like lions, tigers, and bears are illegal to own, as are apes, baboons, and … Raccoons do have varying personalities, like a dog does. no it's not legal unless you have a special wildlife permit. Keeping a raccoon as a pet requires plenty of space for the critter to roam, but don’t just let it run around your home. Because raccoons are cute, smart and nearly everywhere these days, people often wonder if they would be good pets. Answer: No. You can check it out at State Regulations. Raccoons can carry diseases that can cause human illness. I have gotten many letters from heartbroken owners asking me what can be done to save their raccoon. 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. Laws. Raccoons are natural foragers with a reputation for thievery, and they can get into almost any nook, cranny, or latch they find. They’ll spend their time awake playing, climbing, exploring and getting into whatever they can find. Alabama, Maryland, Massachusetts and many other states outright prohibit it. Raccoons bred and raised in a home with humans can bond more easily and adjust faster to life as domestic animals as opposed to a wild raccoon. Possession of a raccoon is illegal in Texas, but permits are available through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for wildlife rehabilitation and research uses. Okay, so be it. The eastern raccoon occurs in all U.S. states and Canadian provinces to the north of South Carolina and Tennessee. 542 views Promoted by Editor X What’s the best web creation platform for designers and agencies? K… Pet Raccoon (Photo: Jodi Smith Carter) This is an archived article and the information in the article may be outdated. It is the largest of the procyonid family, having a body length of 40 to 70 cm (16 to 28 in) and a body weight of 5 to 26 kg (11 to 57 lb). Raccoon” and “pet” are mutually exclusive terms. Additionally, they need a lot of space to explore, climb, and roam, so they don’t do well in cages or small bedrooms. it also divides the listings by state They’re messy, they can open doors, they often escape from their homes and they’re nocturnal, so they’re often up at night while everyone else is sleeping. They can be a lot like a puppy or ferret: affectionate and playful. As both a raccoon and a resident of Indiana (unfortunately) I feel I'm qualified to answer this question even if I don't possess any real legal knowledge. Access to human food (garbage, pet food or intentional feeding) decreases their fear of humans, and they may become aggressive toward food or injured pets. There is no law that allows them to have that raccoon. It may not even be legal for you to have a raccoon in your state. Best thing I can suggest is to release it where it was found. those that pose a significant danger to people), and permits for … You’ll want to child-proof your home and set up a litter box. You must have a hunting license to kill a raccoon for its fur. I'm not exactly positive if it's legal or not, but they aren't bad if all they know are humans. Never attempt to raise one that you found in the wild. Consider other pets and children in the home — could the raccoon pose a danger to them? However, it is illegal to keep rattlesnakes in some states, including Delaware, New Hampshire, and Hawaii. The owners of Sly Cooperette, a pet raccoon that became a social media sensation after it was confiscated and euthanized earlier this week, are fighting to change state law to Lawrence's bill, if it were to become law, also seeks to make these legal to own as pets. Raccoons are not dangerous to people. As of 2020, here are the states where it is reportedly legal to own a pet raccoon: Arkansas; Delaware; Florida; Indiana; Nebraska; North Carolina; South Carolina; Michigan; Oklahoma If a particular mammal, bird, or reptile species does not appear on this list, it may not be imported into Alaska or possessed as a pet or livestock in Alaska, and the Department of Fish and Game cannot issue a permit allowing its importation or possession. For example, in North Carolina, a vet must approve the animal before it is brought into the state. Question: Is it legal to keep a cheetah as a pet in Florida? Look. Is it legal to have a raccoon as a pet where you live? Arkansas. Anyone interested in owning a raccoon as a pet must remember that they have a will of their own and will generally do as they please, and have a variety of special needs.. He was working and found 9 little babies with their eyes still closed. Obesity is a major health concern for raccoons, so it’s important to make sure they don’t eat too much. First, most experts advise against owning any type of wildlife, including raccoons. Individuals who owned a pet raccoon when laws banning their ownership were enacted may be allowed to maintain ownership. They have a mischievous nature and can be extremely destructive. Rabies is a neurological disorder that can cause raccoons to be lethargic, have uncoordinated movements, or unprovoked aggressive behavior. I personally don't see a need for a skunk or raccoon as a pet. It is not legal to have a pet raccoon in Los Angeles. If your pet raccoon escapes the house, it may scare your neighbors, their pets and their children. They are very intelligent animals and have a good memory and problem-solving abilities. Individuals who owned a pet raccoon when laws banning their ownership were enacted may be allowed to maintain ownership. These laws have not stopped a few well-meaning folks from attempting to raise a raccoon as a pet, which typically has a tragic ending. These regulations often answer questions like, “what happens if my raccoon scratches or bites someone?” Because raccoons are wild animals, they might be euthanized if your raccoon is problematic. Because raccoons are carriers of rabies, many states have laws prohibiting you from keeping one as a pet. I brought them home and was there when all of them opened their eyes. And if you found a stray baby raccoon, do not attempt to interact with it at all. Go to someone who is certified to sell exotic pets. Many people enjoy watching or photographing raccoons. While a raccoon can be trained not to bite (by sternly telling it "no"), you may have to use caution and patience as well as some sturdy work gloves. This is just a partial list, though. Remember, it’s important to check both state and local laws before purchasing an exotic pet. First check out the law regarding raccoons. Additionally, an importation permit must be obtained before any game animals may be brought into New Jersey from another state. Raccoons are quite adorable, and many people consider keeping one as a pet - perhaps influenced by the Disney movie Pocahontas. Make sure this enclosure has a roof. Some raccoons eat dog food, as well as berries, fruit, vegetables and bugs. Many veterinarians won’t vaccinate wild animals, and it can be difficult to find a vet who will even see a raccoon. Open windows and doors to the outside so the animal can exit quietly on its own. This omnivorous mammal is quite small - slightly larger than a domestic cat - with sharp claws and a thick ringed tail, and it's known as a scavenger or pest in some areas. In states that do allow pet ownership of a raccoon, a wild animal permit is usually required. Anyone interested in owning a raccoon as a pet must remember that they have a will of their own and will generally do as they please, and have a variety of special needs.. A mother and her baby raccoons cannot be removed from their nesting site until the pups are able to leave with the mother (about 12 weeks). The more space you have in your home, the better. Some people feed them, but this is unnecessary and unwise. Because raccoons are carriers of rabies, many states have laws prohibiting you from keeping one as a pet. Yes! Its grayish coat mostly consists of dense underfur which insulates it against cold weather. Before even considering a raccoon as a pet you should be aware of your local laws since they are illegal in many areas. One reason is how susceptible they are to rabies. All environments that are totally unsuitable for a raccoon dog's complex needs. Undeterred? Poultry, fish, eggs, insects, vegetables, and fruits are recommended for them. If you’re looking to own a pet raccoon, there are a few things you should know about them. Rabies can infect all mammals including humans and some domestic pets. While their appearance may be humorous, their plight in modern society is a bit … Instead, take it to a wildlife rehabilitation center in your area instead. Are There Any States Where It Is Legal to Have a Pet Raccoon. Is it legal to have a pet raccoon? If you live in a place where it’s legal to own a pet raccoon, and you are thinking about getting one, there are many other things to consider. I have been told by my veterinarian that it is illegal to have a pet raccoon in PA. no it's not legal unless you have a special wildlife permit. If you have a raccoon in the house, close all doors that provide access to other parts of the house. Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated. For example, in Arkansas, a person can’t own more than five raccoons at a time. Before you even consider getting a pet raccoon, you must make sure it is legal to own on in your state. Possession of a raccoon is illegal in Texas, but permits are available through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for wildlife rehabilitation and research uses. They're just not domestic animals, okay? The state of California specifically forbids the ownership of wild animals, including raccoons. Utah – You can try applying for a permit to own an owl, but the state only approves exotic animals in rare instances. “The Bodyguard” by ken wilson lee is licensed under CC BY 2.0. This is just a partial list, though. Legal Issues. Place your pet raccoon in a habitat where it has plenty of space to forage, play and explore. Raccoons eat both meat and plants. read more Yes, but only if the appropriate permits are obtained. One of the most serious and deadly of these is rabies.According to the World Health Organization, rabies is “almost always fatal following the onset of clinical symptoms.” Obviously, this presents serious concerns when you’re keeping a raccoon as a pet.Dr. The raccoon is a wild animal of the Procynidae family native to North America. Popular in Japan and also the stars of the Studio Ghibli film Pom Poko, they have recently become the subject of fascination by Westerners unfamiliar with this unusual species. Is it illegal to have a racoon? Is the Coronavirus Crisis Increasing America's Drug Overdoses? For your convenience, we have listed the approved animals by category in the links below. Raccoons are important furbearers, providing income and recreation to hunters and trappers in New York State. A captive game permit is needed for the possession of any game species in New Jersey. you can find a list of legal vs. illegal pets on the USDA website. Some states, such as California, don’t even require owners to have a permit. In fact, the fur trade in raccoon dogs, which is responsible for the problem in the first place, poses this risk, yet still remains legal. The answer, sadly, is nothing. I have a friend that has a pet raccoon, and it is the smartest, cutest, nicest thing ever! Raccoon rabies reached New York in 1990 and has become widespread. Raccoons that have caused property damage can be trapped with humane traps that must be checked every 24 hours. You can check it out at State Regulations. It’s illegal: In Canada it is illegal to keep raccoons as pets, as they are on the ‘prohibited animals list, alongside several other exotic species. Sadly, it's not uncommon to see 'pet' raccoon dogs kept in a house, in a small enclosure in a garden or in a small enclosure in a pet shop. Rabies is a viral disease with symptoms similar to distemper. Adults weigh an average of 15 pounds, and are readily identified by alternating rings on the tail and characteristic black "mask." It is not legal to have a pet raccoon in Los Angeles. Purchasing Your Raccoon. Some states in which owning raccoons is forbidden by law include Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland and Massachusetts. Infections of the skin and urinary tract are also common. Make sure a dish of water is available to them at all times. Can I have a pet raccoon, skunk or opossum in New Jersey? Even if it were legal to domesticate a raccoon as a pet, you wouldn’t want to. The short answer to whether or not you can have a pet raccoon in Kentucky is no. In addition to these laws, also look for regulations for raccoon owners. Yes, but only if the appropriate permits are obtained. It's another "pocket pet" that's popular in some areas, but illegal in Pennsylvania. Raccoons are considered to be exotic animals and, therefore, have a separate set of laws regarding ownership of them. I have gotten many letters from heartbroken owners asking me what can be done to save their raccoon. Raccoons also like to bite, and once they reach sexual maturity, they may become aggressive and even attack their owners. Long-term Commitment - When you decide that you want a raccoon to keep you company, you must consider several facts regarding their needs and their nature. But this won't always be the case. Vermont – You cannot get an owl except for educational purposes. Wait for the animal to leave, then close all openings, including the pet door, to prevent the raccoon from returning. Even if it were legal to own a raccoon dog, we at AnimalWised would still never advise anyone to adopt a tanuki or mangut as a pet. you can find a list of legal vs. illegal pets on the USDA website. They are really smart animals, and they are not born with rabies or diseases!! In North Carolina, a veterinarian must approve the animal before it’s brought into the state. In some states it is legal to own a raccoon, in others it is llegal. Texas – You might need a license to own a pet, depending on how dangerous your owl is. Q. It is highly recommended that you have a large outdoor enclosure for your raccoon to play unsupervised. Raccoons are quite adorable, and many people consider keeping one as a pet - perhaps influenced by the Disney movie Pocahontas. The raccoon needs toys and an outdoor place to play that's fully enclosed. The raccoon is a wild animal of the Procynidae family native to North America. It may not even be legal for you to have a raccoon in your state. Like dogs and cats, they may end up with flea infestations. In Indiana and other states, the owner must have a wild animal permit. Any raccoon that bites or scratches a person or pet should be treated as a potentially rabid animal. Ned Gentz, DVM, DACZM, writing for VetzInsight, says, “Raccoons a… Like children, raccoons are curious and playful and also destructive, so prepare your home accordingly and play with them accordingly. If you are still determined to have a … They will not permit pet raccoons. Because they are omnivores, they’ll eat a variety of foods, including both plants and animals. Festival of Sacrifice: The Past and Present of the Islamic Holiday of Eid al-Adha. In some states, while it may be legal to own a raccoon as a pet, it is not legal to import raccoons from outside the state. Raccoon Rabies. If you raise a raccoon as a pet with an incredible amount of attention, love and care, you still won’t be able to override its wild instincts. However, you should check state and county laws first; Even if your state allows you to keep a raccoon, some city ordinances will prohibit homeowners from keeping these exotic pets. Most adult raccoons require two meals per day but consult with a veterinarian for advice on feeding them. Raccoons can be found throughout the state and in all habitat types, with the majority being found in northwestern and central Ohio along rivers and streams bordering farmland habitats. I also live in PA and have a baby raccoon that comes around every night to eat. No, they are wild animals. Kayland, 17, and Zachary, soon to turn 16, have known the raccoon as their pet for half their lives. The state of California specifically forbids the ownership of wild animals, including raccoons. Some people have raised orphan raccoons as pets but this may be illegal even in areas that you are allowed to have a captive bred pet raccoon. Raccoons need plenty of fresh water, and they like to dip their food into the water before they eat it, so you may find yourself changing the water multiple times throughout the day. Feeding raccoons is harmful (PDF) and it is illegal to keep raccoons as pets in B.C. In order to buy a pet raccoon, a person must first find out if raccoons are considered wildlife in their state. Is a raccoon legal to have as a pet in Illinois? Many states do not allow possession of raccoons. Some states in which owning raccoons is forbidden by law include Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland and Massachusetts. Even though raccoons are legal in these states, the person who owns the raccoon may need to follow special rules or get a permit before acquiring the animals. Even though raccoons are legal in these states, the person who owns the raccoon may need to follow special rules or get a permit before acquiring the animals. In What States Are Pet Raccoons Legal? Raccoon dogs are charismatic canids that are surging in popularity thanks to internet virility. Can I own a pet raccoon? People often want to help, but they end up killing them with kindness. In addition to obesity, raccoons are prone to other health issues. Raccoons keep their wild … Rescued raccoon dogs. raccons carry rabies and many diseases that are harmful to humans and domestic pets. ), The Secret Science of Solving Crossword Puzzles, Racist Phrases to Remove From Your Mental Lexicon. It is best to obtain a pet raccoon from a breeder, although these may be difficult to find. Raccoons may be trapped (in season) by registered trappers who have a valid trapping licence. Raccoons are illegal in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, and Massachusetts among other states, and there are specific laws surrounding raccoon ownership in most states. They’re also prone to internal parasites, many of which can be passed on to humans. I have had to grab my steak off a grill and hide in my camper while a raccoon tried to tear off the lid to my fan on the roof of my camper. - If we cannot convince you not to, and it is legal in your state, here are some thoughts on owning pet raccoons. Rabid raccoons may behave aggressively, salivate heavily, or have paralyzed hind legs. The raccoons can either be brought into the local animal control office for euthanization or released into the immediate area. Laws. If you are still determined to have a pet raccoon… There is a continuous open trapping season in the following localities: Arlington, Chesterfield, Fairfax, Henrico, James City, Loudoun, Prince William, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Roanoke and York Counties. Raccoons can easily live for 15 years, and they shouldn’t be released back into the wild after they’ve been kept as a pet. I'm going to have a pet raccoon. Some are very friendly and nice, and some are very aggressive and mean. Our inspectors have taken in 'pet' raccoon dogs that were no longer wanted by their owners. My Grandpa has a barn and coons like to have their babies in there. Long-term Commitment - When you decide that you want a raccoon to keep you company, you must consider several facts regarding their needs and their nature. 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. Although it is not an endangered species, the raccoon is classified by the California Department of Fish and Game as a furbearer and is protected by law against being relocated after trapping or killed by inhumane means. It is best to obtain a pet raccoon from a breeder, although these may be difficult to find. In some states there are some exceptions for documented captive-bred animals such as skunks and raccoons. They have also moved into suburban and urban areas and can live almost any place where there is food for them to eat and a den to serve as shelter. It's completely legal to own a raccoon in Georgia, no permit required. In most states, owning wild deer is illegal, and this is… Ultimately, it’s best to check with local and state governments before adopting any wild or exotic animal as a pet. If you are set on owning a pet raccoon and your state permits it, you should first find a reputable raccoon breeder. Additionally, an importation permit must be obtained before any game animals may be brought into New Jersey from another state. raccons carry rabies and many diseases that are harmful to humans and domestic pets. Raccoons are also at risk for intestinal worms, distemper, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, salmonella and other diseases that can pass to humans and other animals. A. Raccoons are messy eaters too. It’s legal to own a pet raccoon in the following states: In the states where owning a pet raccoon is legal, those looking for a pet raccoon should look additional regulations for owning a raccoon. Rabies can be transmitted to humans and other animals by the bite of an infected animal. Some states require a permit to keep raccoons, while others, like Arkansas, allow you to keep up to 6 raccoons. Do not bring a wild raccoon into your home. More specifically, “No person may possess an inherently dangerous animal, including primates, dangerous reptiles, bears, large cats and more.” Perhaps you've always wanted to own a pet monkey, or you're wondering whether it's legal for your neighbor to have that cougar in his backyard. You can own a rattlesnake in most states as long as you have a permit. Still want one of those cute things? Finally, a raccoon’s behavior may prevent you from wanting to own one. In Kentucky, owning a pet raccoon is against the law. You must contact the Commonwealth Attorney’s office in your county/city for information regarding legal methods of animal removal. Actually raccoon are very good pets as the can live up to 20 years in captivity and only 4 in the "wild" although don't pick it up off the street. Cheetahs are Class 1 Wildlife (e.g. Can I have a pet raccoon, skunk or opossum in New Jersey? Some states require a permit to keep raccoons, while others, like Arkansas, allow you to keep up to 6 raccoons. 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. Raccoons are "well-rounded," often plump, with reddish brown to grey fur. Raccoons are susceptible to a few illnesses that are zoonotic, meaning they can be passed to humans. Even if it was legal, you have taken a wild animal into captivity, (illegal in every state) which is cruel. Alabama, Maryland, Massachusetts and many other states outright prohibit it. Fortunately for your curiosity, every state has exotic animal laws which allow, restrict, or prohibit ownership of certain types of animals. In many areas of the United States, keeping a captive raccoon as a pet is perfectly legal. See our article, “Raccoons Do Not Make Good Pets” to learn why. You may know someone, maybe even a relative, who has successfully kept a pet raccoon and loved it. Taking native animals from the … Contact a professional pest control company or your municipality if you have a persistent raccoon problem. An unsupervised raccoon can be … The adjacent range of the Upper Mississippi Valley raccoon covers all U.S. states and Canadian provinces to the north of Louisiana, Texas and New Mexico. It’s legal to own 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; West Virginia; In the states where owning a pet raccoon is legal, those looking for a pet raccoon should look additional regulations for owning a raccoon. They also tend to be destructive, so you might find them eating your furniture, bedsheets, and clothing as well as knocking over items. It is illegal to keep pet raccoons as pets in many states. Is it legal to have a pet raccoon in minnesota? - If we cannot convince you not to, and it is legal in your state, here are some thoughts on owning pet raccoons. As a bonus, raccoons can break through latches and other secured areas if they so desire, hence why they have a “masked bandit reputation.”. Raccoon dogs, also called tanukis, are not raccoons or dogs, they are in the Canidae family and are most closely related to true foxes. The answer, sadly, is nothing. A captive game permit is needed for the possession of any game species in New Jersey. And if you can't feed a raccoon then you probably can't feed yourself since a raccoon's diet is … Raccoon are legal to have as pets in Texas. This omnivorous mammal is quite small - slightly larger than a domestic cat - with sharp claws and a thick ringed tail, and it's known as a scavenger or pest in some areas. The raccoon (/ r ə ˈ k uː n / or US: / r æ ˈ k uː n / (), Procyon lotor) is a medium-sized mammal native to North America. Continue reading to hear the guidelines, general tips and arguments supporting our opinion, and you'll be convinced of why it isn't sensible to have raccoon dogs as pets. Fact Check: What Power Does the President Really Have Over State Governors? If you do get a pet raccoon, it is recommended to buy one from a breeder. They are native to Far East Asia. It’s unethical: Raccoons are wild animals. Make sure you find a veterinarian that is willing to vaccinate and care for your raccoon. You want a pet raccoon, move to a state where they are legal, and get one from a breeder. Is it legal to have a pet raccoon in minnesota? ! In most states it is 100% illegal to have a North American mammal as a pet. Finally, a raccoon’s behavior may prevent you from wanting to own one. How can I own a pet raccoon legally? I'm going to have a pet raccoon. The hedgehog. Some people have raised orphan raccoons as pets but this may be illegal even in areas that you are allowed to have a captive bred pet raccoon. Local ordinances are usually more restrictive than state laws. Raccoons can’t live in cages for extended periods of time, so the raccoon will likely roam around your house as cats and dogs do. So if you have found someone selling pet raccoons that they have bred themselves, steer clear. However, raccoons tend to be mischievous and unpredictable, which is why it is generally advised to not have them as pets. A. Much like a ‘pet’ boa constrictor, if you live with a raccoon what you will end up with is a wild animal that lives in your house. These laws have not stopped a few well-meaning folks from attempting to raise a raccoon as a pet, which typically has a tragic ending. In Arkansas, a person cannot own more than five at a time.

where is it legal to have a pet raccoon

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where is it legal to have a pet raccoon 2020