14 states allow raccoons as pet. There is an overwhelming fear that the cages or contaminants will break, thus releasing the animals into the community, where they may become an invasive species. Raccoons are naturally present throughout South Dakota. While they generally only live a few years in the wild, raccoons can live up to 20 years as pets. to people, thanks to their sharp horns and massive strength. Gently brushing them during this time can help to prevent the loose fur from matting. Allow your raccoon to feel like it is in the wild with plenty of space, company, places to explore. Beaver Teeth: Their Color, Strength, Sharpness, And More! It is illegal to keep raccoons as pets in Alabama. Raccoons are considered exotic animals in Wyoming, and they require a permit for private ownership. For the crate interior where your raccoon might temporarily spend time, an easily washable blanket or dog bed on the floor should keep the animal comfortable. Raccoon - Maryland Department of Natural Resources But beware of the negatives which come with owning a raccoon. Raccoons can be found in virtually any habitat, as long as water is nearby. However, providing the right environment for them is difficult. Pennsylvania is one of the few states that allow its residents to own a pet raccoon, and other kinds of exotic animals, under the condition that one obtains a permit. Virginia Freshwater Mussel Restoration Strategy: Upper Tennessee River Basin. Raccoons are not easy to tame. The Wildlife Code of Missouri classifies the wild animal as a furbearer and game mammal. Be sure to provide your raccoon with a suitable living space. It's legal to own a pet raccoon in the following states: Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Get expert advice to help your pet live its best life, Pros & Cons of Keeping a Raccoon as a Pet. They are extremely high maintenance and fairly unpredictable, which is why most animal experts advise against keeping them as pets. She now works with a team of other experienced vets to provide the best advice and care for their clients' pets. Owning a raccoon is not completely practical and with animals made for the wild it is in the states best interest to keep it that way. Today, it is illegal to keep any wild animals as pets in the District of Columbia. They will always be a wild animal, and many are very against the adoption of the raccoon. In order to legally possess, transport, raise, or release raccoons in Texas, you have to be a permitted wildlife rehabber, and furthermore, if you intend to keep the animal in your possession, you need permission from the state with a vet that confirming that the raccoon is non-releasable. Can you own a raccoon in Pennsylvania? - Pet Store Animals That means your home must be raccoon-proofed. 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. You can simply put their food in a bowl. Despite being nocturnal animals, pet raccoons will come out to play with their owners during the daytime. They'll reach their full size between 4 months and 1 year old. Pet raccoons are illegal in many areas, and even where they are legal there are many laws surrounding their ownership. Indeed, raccoon hunting is widely popular in the region and there are many raccoon hunter clubs and competitions being held yearly. Legalization of raccoon ownership in Oregon - Change.org Read our. Although this is a topic which is highly controversial and frowned upon, there are still many states that have not put law into action. They can be fascinating to watch, but their enterprising nature and extremely varied diet can bring them in conflict with humans when they raid trash cans, dumpsters, gardens, and/or outdoor pet food. West Virginia 13. 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. The raccoon is a common animal in the state present along the coast, inland, and within South Carolinians homes: owning a pet raccoon is authorized in the state if a permit is granted. Finding a veterinarian for your exotic pet can be difficult, as not all vets have experience in raccoons. The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. But they are rather stubborn and selective about when they want to obey. Aquatic Wildlife Conservation Center. The state laid out advice to prevent these conflicts such as keeping pet food indoors, or fastening garbage can slides with rubber straps. A hunting or trapping license is also required to hunt or trap them during the open season. All raccoons are vicious, but a wild raccoon can be much more dangerous than a domesticated one. The raccoon is found throughout the state, the majority being found in northwestern and central Ohio. Its always vital to know what kinds of conditions an animal needs to allow it to thrive and that youll actually be able to provide that before claiming one for yourself. Prior to acquiring a raccoon as a pet, contact exotic veterinarians in your area to find one who specializes in this animal and is willing to take one on as a patient. Youd also need a permit for certain wild cat hybrid species that are considered exotic, like serval cats. However, they also are generally quick to biteeven their favorite peoplewhen something annoys or scares them. Florida 4. Why Arent Raccoons Allowed As Pets Everywhere? This native mammal inhabits woodlands and marshes in rural and urban areas throughout North America. Having been raised to live a domesticated life, throwing itself back into the wild will not be good for it. It may therefore be hunted during the prescribed hunting and trapping seasons. Raccoons are quite adept at breaking through latches and other secured areas if their curiosity gets the best of them. Some raccoons are friendly whilst others will take whatever chance they have to flee. 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. You must provide them with much larger cages, and their medical treatment is much more expensive. They only require occasional baths with a mild shampoo. This is all down to the health and safety of the citizens, and it is safer for all to keep the two separate. But this also means that dealing with the issues caused by these wild animals presents some challenges. 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. Question: Can you own a raccoon in California? Where Can I Buy or Adopt a Pet Raccoon? - Floofmania This is all down to the health and safety of the citizens, and it is safer for all to keep the two separate. Most of these sixteen states have special permits or regulations for owning a raccoon, however, and raccoon ownership may still be considered illegal as a general rule. If anyone in the neighborhood is feeding wildlife directly, or indirectly, it can cause trouble for everyone. What Should I Consider Before Getting A Pet Raccoon? We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Raccoons have an impressive set of skills that make them quite adept at finding food. It is forbidden to own a pet raccoon in Nevada despite the fact that the state has a long list of animals that can be kept without a permit (including toucans, lovebirds, monkeys, elephants, camels, or ostrich). Their diet, necessary environments, and medical attention are costly. We also get your email address to automatically create an account for you in our website. BANS: fox, skunk and raccoon after 2006 BANS cervids Wild-caught must be checked by NR police officer and purchase need bill of sale Roadside Menagerie Permit (display wild animals or birds, amphibians, reptiles from commercial dealers or the wild) - $25 ALSO NEED: game farm license to breed or sell BANS cervids and excludes nonnative mammals While they do make some vocalizations, raccoons are generally quiet animals. That way, you can make sure you have the right amount of, You hope it would never become necessary, but if your pet. Arkansas has one of the highest pet ownership rates, and the fact that Arkansans are permitted to own a pet raccoon might contribute to this high percentage. One example is the former Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park, owned by Joseph Passage. 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. While they are commonly found throughout North America, raccoons also inhabit parts of Central and South America. And, in North Carolina, a veterinarian must "approve" the animal before it's brought into the state. They are wild animals, only coming out at night due to being nocturnal, and can be dangerous if approached the wrong way. to own in Virginia. Be prepared to invest a lot of time and money in raccoon care. 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. And some do enjoy cuddling with their humans. This will cause them to lose their natural fear of humans. Australia. Virginia's Wildlife | Virginia DWR , read on to find out the answers to these questions and moreplus, how to easily find pet-friendly home insurance. Although not native to the region, raccoons can be found in Utah. Despite this, raccoons are very intelligent creatures and are great problem solvers. . Electric fencing can be very effective in keeping wildlife out of crops, beehives and structures. Remove bird feeders when problem species have been seen around them. And if you have questions about insurance options for your furry, feathered, or scaly companion, Jerrys friendly, experienced team of agents. According to the Michigan Compiled Laws, raccoons can only undergo rehabilitation if you donate them to an AZA zoo, ASA, or animal sanctuary. For example, in South Dakota, although bears are allowed to be kept on private property in your home, pigs are prohibited. There is no restriction on the number of raccoons that you may own. When you login first time using a Social Login button, we collect your account public profile information shared by Social Login provider, based on your privacy settings. Living indoors, a large dog crate with a lot of space will work well for the raccoon for in the short term. 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. Should You Keep a Raccoon as a Pet? - The Spruce Pets These states are: However, even though there are laws against the ownership of raccoons, those laws do not necessarily apply to all exotic animals. . More than rats, raccoons are the most widespread animal in New York State. However, only six of these animals per household are allowed (Section 15.41). Jerry automatically shops for your insurance before every renewal. 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. Captive raccoons can be prone to obesity if they aren't given enough space to roam. One reason for exception is that these wild animals are not kept as home pets but as animals for exhibitions or to be used for educational purposes. For instance, you can feed them cat food as a portion of supplemental food. If an "emergency exists"i.e. Raccoons are affectionate, and they love to cuddle. Known as the backyard bandits, raccoons are widespread in the state of Missouri, it is however illegal to possess a pet raccoon in this state. They are quick learners who will catch on to this behavior in no time. 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 omnivores, meaning they eat both meat and plants. I bought my Ford Bronco a year and a half ago, and Im not sure if it is still under warranty. An exotic veterinarian who knows raccoons might be able to point you toward a good breeder. Pass along this information to your neighbors. However, some states may require a special permit or license before you can keep one as your pet. I trusted it so much that I signed up my homeowners insurance under Jerry as well. 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. The availability of nearby wild animal veterinarians is something that can make a major impact on your pets livelihood. The permits cost $10 each. Why Raccoons Are Not Allowed As Pets In The UK - PatchPets You do not need to apply or have a permit to own a raccoon in West Virginia. New Hampshire, defined by its charming towns and large expanses of wilderness, prohibits the adoption of pet raccoons. While it is not legal to own a pet raccoon in New Jersey, the most densely populated state in the country attracts its fair share of raccoons. On the other hand, the possession of other forms of wildlife such as foxes is strictly prohibited. Without permits, people in Indiana cannot own the following: foxes, raccoons, skunks, wolves, bears, wild cats, venomous reptiles, or crocodiles. Without the proper understanding of how to care for and handle a crocodile, you could easily get yourself or someone else injured or killed. It shouldnt come by as too much of a surprise if you find them eating your couch and knocking ornaments over. Only in 14 of 50 states are you allowed to keep a raccoon as a pet. Certain home insurance providers may provide coverage for exotic pets, but, others might require you to purchase separate insurance, to cover your bases. Include toys, such as balls and food puzzles, to keep your pet entertained. Can You Have a Pet Raccoon and Are Raccoons Good Pets? - Reference.com Pet Raccoon Legal States 2023 - worldpopulationreview.com But it's still very important to take your pet for regular vet visits. They love to show their human companions attention by sitting on their laps, cuddling at the ends of their beds, and getting belly rubs. It is not impossible to own a raccoon exotic animals are kept as pets all the time. Delaware 3. Finding a veterinarian for your exotic pet. They are rare, however. they live for roughly ten to fifteen years. If you are wanting to know more about what is needed to consider owning this pet and the laws surrounding it, this will supply you with all the answers. Owning a raccoon dog in the UK is not allowed by law. Adult Size: 16 to 28 inches long, and 7 to 20 pounds on average. Exotic Pet Ownership Laws By State - AZ Animals Freshwater Mussels. Courtesy of. Exotic Animal Laws by State - FindLaw Theyre better left to their own devices in the wild. Yes with an exotic animal. I want to solve the issue of not legally being able to own raccoons in Oregon. Here are a few examples of some legal animals to own in Virginia: Certain monk parakeets that were captive bred and are close-banded with a seamless band, Domesticated animals (but not domesticated foxes, as of 2017), own a certain type of animal doesnt mean you. Rhode Islanders are also allowed to kill, by legal means, these protected furbearers if they are damaging their property. While Rhode Islanders do not need a permit to own a llama, alpaca, or domestic yak, they do need one to adopt a pet raccoon. The affectionate pet raccoon will sit on your shoulder. She recently received her MFA in creative writing (nonfiction) from Columbia University and has been nominated for a Pushcart Prize. Can you own a sloth in Texas? The wild animal can also be hunted and trapped without possessing a hunting or trapping license. This is only one example of the many diseases they have. The state also forbids the adoption and possession of pet raccoons. Furthermore, while they may be legal to have in certain states they may not be legal to bring across state lines due to the risk of carrying certain diseases or parasites which could potentially infect other wildlife or domesticated animals. A dish of clean water should be available at all times. However, one is allowed to hunt and trap them all year round. The average adult raccoon measures between 20 and 40 inches long and typically weighs 10 to 30 pounds. Based on the leadership principles of George Washington, we provide citizens, voters, and elected officials with the information, insights, and tools that amplify democracy in the modern age. and can be dangerous to people and other animals, including livestock, so theyre illegal to keep as pets without a permit. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. For example, South Carolina prohibits owning lions as pets, but you can still own a monkey. It costs $48 to obtain this license and $48 for each yearly renewal. They need lots of safe space to roam and consistent supervision. to help you make that insurance shopping process a little easier. was wonderful! The little creatures have adapted well to Oregons urban and suburban environments where it is forbidden to own a pet raccoon. You hear of owning a dog, a cat, some people even own rats and parrots, but have you ever heard of owning a raccoon? The Wyoming law authorizes Wyomingites to keep pet raccoons as well as other animals such as ostriches, coyotes, and red foxes without any permits. State Laws: Private Possession of Exotic Animals | Born Free USA Where Is It Legal to Own a Raccoon? - Fair Punishment Without permits, people in Indiana cannot own the following: foxes, raccoons, skunks, wolves, bears, wild cats, venomous reptiles, or crocodiles. And with the development of infrastructure and housing, particularly around the water streams, their population has increased dramatically. And many do become quite cuddly or playful at times. 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. 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. For instance, raccoons are relatively clean mammals. While it is unlawful to possess pet raccoons, they can be found everywhere, from secluded forests to urban centers like New York City, where they enjoy raiding the trash of new yorkers. Should You Keep Fennec Fox (Desert Fox) as a Pet? On a monthly basis, your main essential cost for a raccoon will be its healthy, varied diet. Even though the state forbids the possession of pet raccoons, this wild animal can be hunted and trapped. 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). It is only to be expected with keeping them as a pet. There are a few things that you should consider before adopting a pet raccoon. While owning a pet raccoon is unlawful, it is possible to hunt them. Raccoons are found in both rural and urban environments throughout the United States. Today, raccoons are extremely rare in the state. Raccoons can carry a number of parasites, viruses, and bacterial illnesses, including: Rabies Canine distemper Leptospirosis Toxoplasmosis Intestinal roundworms 2 Raccoons born and raised in captivity are less likely to develop many of these diseases. People like these animals because they are similar to their house pets now. Not all states condone the upbringing of exotic animals. Their cute appearances and cuddly personalities make them seem like the perfect pet. Most adult raccoons need two meals per day in the early morning and late evening, though follow your vet's advice on this. It is therefore illegal to possess, import, propagate, or sell raccoons. Nebraska has partial bans on most exotic animals. 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. These are likely signs of ill health. Opossum, porcupine, weasel, red squirrel, ground squirrel and feral swine can also be taken year-round with a valid Michigan hunting license. Editorial Note: The content of this article is based on the authors opinions and recommendations alone. Raccoons can carry a number of parasites, viruses, and bacterial illnesses, including: Raccoons born and raised in captivity are less likely to develop many of these diseases. They often use their dexterous front paws to search through holes or pick up objects of interest as they explore their surroundings. There is an overwhelming fear that the cages or contaminants will . Thanks to their intelligence, most pet raccoons are able to learn their name and even a few commands, such as sit and shake.. 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. These permits include a Rehabilitation Permit, Permit to Hold Game in Captivity, or a Scientific Research Permit. Owning a raccoon is not completely practical and with animals made for the wild it is in the state's best interest to keep it that way. Lions, tigers, bearsdont own any of them without a permit in Virginia. Common Infectious Diseases of Raccoons. All of the agents are amazingly nice and knowledgeable. Mary Y. On the contrary, they have been recently reclassified as predatory wildlife, and can therefore be hunted in any number, at any time, all year round; under the condition that one possesses an Idaho hunting or trapping license. And is owning something as exotic as a raccoon legal? They can be as playful as a puppy, but they can also be unpredictable. Raccoons are viewed to be a nuisance and a destructive force to homeowners as well as landowners. 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. In parallel, the Department of Natural Resources monitors the number of raccoons to make sure that hunting activities do not impact the raccoon population negatively. Consult your vet for the best bathing frequency to avoid irritating their skin. 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. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. The permits cost $10 each. As a permit holder, youre responsible for making sure the animal in your care isnt released into the wild. It Is Ethically Wrong To Keep Raccoons As Pets. Failure to attain a permit can lead to a fine as well as the removal of your animal. Is It True That Raccoons Are Common As Pets In Russia? However, Arizanonian hunters, equipped with a hunting permit, can pursue them with dogs and trap them. Raccoons are protected in the state of Minnesota, it is therefore illegal to possess a pet raccoon. So anything that might injure them or become damaged must be removed from their area. The world you establish for the raccoon is very limited. Texas considers raccoons as wild animals, and they are illegal to possess without approved permits from the U.S. Department of Fish and Game. July 23, 2018. But it's still very important to take your pet for regular vet visits. You may also donate them to a science or educational research facility. When Rashida Banks renovated the small rear patio of her Washington, D.C., home, she wanted to include a space where her pit bulls, Jax and Chase, could "do their business." "We, of course, walk . not very safe to keep an alligator as a pet. Indiana 5. The population greatly expanded its reach since the 1940s, when they were common only in the eastern part of the state. Can I Legally Have A Raccoon As A Pet? (A List Of States - Floofmania 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. This isnt only important for the sake of the animals wellbeing, but for the safety of the public. One interesting fact about these animals is that they can remember how to solve complex problems for months at a time. Raccoons require an abundant diet of natural resources. A raccoon can make a great pet because of its playful nature. Is It Safe to Have a Raccoon As a Pet? Despite their common presence, Virginia laws strictly prohibit its residents from keeping pet raccoons or trying to raise them without a rehabilitation permit. Raccoon coats became widely popular until the Great Depression when the wild animals that survived were offered as pets. Pets Banned in Every State | Stacker They can be hunted if one has a hunting license from the state. If you are feeding wildlife, stop. Pet Raccoon Legal States 2023 - Wisevoter Raccoons are prone to chewing on cords, climbing on shelves, and knocking down valuables. In the state of Delaware, Raccoons are considered wild animals that require a permit to own or rehabilitate. You'll need to find out if your state allows them before bringing one into your home.