Overall, they are unpredictable. Raccoons can be found in virtually any habitat, as long as water is nearby. No matter what kind of pet(s) you own, its a good idea to make sure your, provider knows about them. to people, thanks to their sharp horns and massive strength. It costs significantly more to own raccoons than to own a domestic animal. This is why Minnesota has put an emphasis on damage prevention. Laws on Exotic Animals for Each State - The Spruce Pets Living indoors, a large dog crate with a lot of space will work well for the raccoon for in the short term. Youll have to surround yourself with laughter in other ways. So, there are plenty of animals you cant keep as pets in Virginia. These permits include a Rehabilitation Permit, Permit to Hold Game in Captivity, or a Scientific Research Permit. However, raccoons transported into Ohio that are pets may [] Oklahoma 8. However, many people are beginning to tame them and move toward bringing these furry and affectionate mammals into their homes. It is illegal to own a pet raccoon as a pet in Australia. 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. Raccoons are affectionate, and they love to cuddle. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. There are strict restrictions placed on them, meaning they can no longer be bred or sold within the borders of the United Kingdom. This isnt only important for the sake of the animals wellbeing, but for the safety of the public. They enjoy climbing, exploring, and can be destructive. Adhere to any guidelines that make owning a raccoon legal in your state. Despite their common presence, Virginia laws strictly prohibit its residents from keeping pet raccoons or trying to raise them without a rehabilitation permit. 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. Raccoons can be nuisance wildlife. The main reason provided is the threat of rabies. Captive raccoons can be prone to obesity if they aren't given enough space to roam. It Is Ethically Wrong To Keep Raccoons As Pets. Sixteen states allow you to own a raccoon legally. They understand their dietary needs, the dangers, the potential for disease, and their mischievousness. Can you own a sloth in Texas? , it's illegal to own animals like bears, wolves, crocodiles, and big cat species without a permit. The little creatures have adapted well to Oregons urban and suburban environments where it is forbidden to own a pet raccoon. In the state of Delaware, Raccoons are considered wild animals that require a permit to own or rehabilitate. Theyre better left to their own devices in the wild. Should You Keep a Raccoon as a Pet? - The Spruce Pets The raccoons appearance lead people to turn a blind eye on the animals characteristics. They'll reach their full size between 4 months and 1 year old. It is important to know the traits of the raccoon to understand what you are getting yourself into as an owner. The state laid out advice to prevent these conflicts such as keeping pet food indoors, or fastening garbage can slides with rubber straps. Raccoons | Virginia DWR They may carry diseases, such as rabies or leptospirosis, which can be spread to humans and other animals. Aquatic Wildlife Conservation Center. There is also a ban on owning wild turkeys, foxes, raccoons, skunks,and wild rodents. And if you have questions about insurance options for your furry, feathered, or scaly companion, Jerrys friendly, experienced team of agents. However, some states may require a special permit or license before you can keep one as your pet. The state has recently passed legislation that allows year-round hunting and trapping for raccoons (as well as opossums). While owning a pet raccoon is unlawful, it is possible to hunt them. This is a dangerous risk as there is no known certified vaccination for rabies in place yet. Additional restrictions for owning a raccoon could easily be put in place as well as additional permits. 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 love to show their human companions attention by sitting on their laps, cuddling at the ends of their beds, and getting belly rubs. You must consider what's best for the animal over your interest in owning one. Find insurance savings it's 100% free, Compare Free Quotes (& Save Hundreds per Year! In. And while they are protected under state law, Arizonas raccoons are considered to be a public nuisance, and it is forbidden to adopt them. I bought my Ford Bronco a year and a half ago, and Im not sure if it is still under warranty. 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. If you have the space, it's ideal to provide a secure outdoor enclosure for your raccoon. You can already own a raccoon in Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Nebraska, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Michigan, Wyoming, Wisconsin, Texas, Rhode Island, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and West Virginia, but for some reason Oregon is left out of this. It is important to abide by the law for the benefit of yourself and the raccoon. 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. Inside, your raccoon should have access to food, water, shelter, and structures (e.g., large branches) for climbing and jumping. But beware of the negatives which come with owning a raccoon. These natural behaviors are difficult for the raccoon to unlearn, especially if you adopt them and try taming them at an older age. Due to the animals proximity to the population and its capacity to adapt easily and quickly to urban areas, in certain jurisdictions like Arizona, raccoons are considered to be a public nuisance and a destructive force to homes and landowners. So they are best kept solo. You cannot legally own a raccoon as a pet in Canada. According to Wisconsin Watch, no laws regulate private pet ownership in Wisconsin. The basic diet of a raccoon consists of both poultry and plants. State Laws: Private Possession of Exotic Animals | Born Free USA Plus, animals taken into captivity often can't be released back in the wild if you decide you can't keep your pet because they become too reliant on and comfortable around humans. The little nocturnal animal is common and widespread in Indiana and the current laws in the state allow the possession of pet raccoons along with the possession of beavers, foxes, or skunks, but a wild animal possession permit is required. 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. But because they are protected under state law, they cannot be relocated. This is all down to the health and safety of the citizens, and it is safer for all to keep the two separate. The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Experts recommend spending time around raccoons via wildlife rehabilitation or exotic veterinary practices to see what they're really like. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. 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. It's legal to own a raccoon as a pet in Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Nebraska, North and South Carolina, Michigan, Wyoming, Wisconsin, Texas, Rhode Island, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, West Virginia. 1. Some U.S. states have additional regulations for owning a raccoon as a pet. Raccoons are considered exotic animals in Wyoming, and they require a permit for private ownership. What happens if you have an illegal pet in Virginia? Electric fencing can be very effective in keeping wildlife out of crops, beehives and structures. How do I add someone to my car insurance policy? Plus, they have established latrine areas, which means they are already litterbox trained. We want to get on the same insurance plan. Be sure to provide your raccoon with a suitable living space. Before even considering a pet raccoon, you shouldbe aware of your local and state/provincial laws. Without the proper understanding of how to care for and handle a crocodile, you could easily get yourself or someone else injured or killed. 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. Melanie Krieps Mergen is an insurance writer who enjoys getting down to the nuts and bolts of all your burning questions. 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. It is all dependent on the raccoons owner. Australia. In any case, they must be released into the same county they were found. The Game, Fish, and Parks Commission even passed a resolution to establish the Nest Predator Bounty Program, which aims to reduce localized populations of nest predators, including raccoons. Raccoons are found in both rural and urban environments throughout the United States. You must have a special permit to own raccoons in Rhode Island, like all other exotic animals. As pets, they don't do well in cages or even in small bedrooms. 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. Pet raccoons are illegal in many areas, and even where they are legal there are many laws surrounding their ownership. Other exceptions in which exotic animals are allowed are in circuses. Raccoons are made for the outdoors and, even as a pet, can cause the same mischief as they would in the wild. The affectionate pet raccoon will sit on your shoulder. 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. No fees, ever. If anyone in the neighborhood is feeding wildlife directly, or indirectly, it can cause trouble for everyone. 14 states allow raccoons as pet. Pet Raccoon Legal States 2023 - worldpopulationreview.com Can You Have a Pet Raccoon and Are Raccoons Good Pets? - Reference.com Are there any legal exotic pets in Virginia you can own without needing a permit? These animals require a lot of space, upkeep, and supervision. Zoos are the number one establishment for wild animals however this isnt only for the big and known zoos, this also counts for the underground privately owned ones which require no training with wild animals. 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. In the coming years, she's pretty excited about having more electric vehicle options to choose from. The permits cost $10 each. Does this make them more than wild animals? Michigan residents have, if desired, the possibility to own a pet raccoon. Some time has passed since Rebecca the pet raccoon was a distinguished occupant of the White House. Raccoons can be very amusing and playful pets. Can you own a raccoon in Pennsylvania? - Pet Store Animals If you decide to own a pet raccoon, you cannot breed them while in . they live for roughly ten to fifteen years. 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. It is important to acknowledge that your raccoon, even though it is domesticated, is a wild animal at heart. If these techniques do not solve the problem, you can contact a licensed trapper or a critter removal service which you can find in your local phone directory. They are becoming increasingly common pets because they are easy to care for, and they live for roughly ten to fifteen years, roughly the same time as other domestic pets. These are contagious to animals and humans, and they can transmit to other mammals through feces. However, their enticing features make people start seeing these animals as potential pets. Until July 1 of this year, it was illegal in Virginia to kill raccoons on Sunday except between the hours of midnight and 2 AM, a window presumably intended to allow some leeway for those late-Saturday-night raccoon hunts to finish up). Raccoons can also be hunted and trapped during the hunting season, a sport appreciated by many residents. They would therefore be authorized to possess wild game that has been reared in captivity only, and that is native to the region. Plus, they might attack other pets in your home, especially small animals, as they are predators in the wild. Permits are required by law when possessing any exotic animal. Idaho belongs to the top five states that have the highest pet ownership rates but do not allow pet raccoons despite the fact that raccoons are native to the region and found all over the state. People like these animals because they are similar to their house pets now. Can you adopt a raccoon? This native mammal inhabits woodlands and marshes in rural and urban areas throughout North America. In West Virginia, there are no restrictions on private exotic pet ownership. For instance, raccoons are relatively clean mammals. Thus, it's best to acquire a pet raccoon from a reputable breeder. The average adult raccoon measures between 20 and 40 inches long and typically weighs 10 to 30 pounds. And is owning something as exotic as a raccoon legal? Without permits, people in Indiana cannot own the following: foxes, raccoons, skunks, wolves, bears, wild cats, venomous reptiles, or crocodiles. While we already dealt with the US states where its legal to own raccoons, how about other countries around the world? 7 Kinds of Primates That Are Kept as Pets, Serval Cat: Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care. It is illegal in the State of Virginia to trap and relocate an animal to another area. The raccoon cannot normally forage, establish territory, and perform normal mating rituals. 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. There are no permits or licenses that make owning pet raccoons in Australia legal. 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. Wondering about other exotic pets that require permits to own in Virginia? 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. And many do become quite cuddly or playful at times. Nebraska has partial bans on most exotic animals. Viral videos of raccoons learning to do unique tricks or playing with dog toys surface on the internet. They need lots of safe space to roam and consistent supervision. As for foxes, they are considered by the state not inherently dangerous, and can therefore be possessed. Raccoons are well adapted to urban and suburban areas and can easily get into houses, basements and attics. Raccoons live in close proximity to humans in urban and rural communities, they can adapt very easily to their environment, and consequently may become a nuisance for the inhabitants. The raccoon is found throughout the state, the majority being found in northwestern and central Ohio. That means you'll need to regularly change their water and feed them in a location where it's easy to clean up. Some states also limit the number of raccoons and deem ownership of these animals as partially legal. Raccoons are considered wild or exotic pets and do not typically make great pets because of their unpredictability. I think it makes sense to get us both on one insurance plan and split the cost. This is important so that your raccoon can stay comfortable and is in an environment appropriate to its species. Raccoons aren't common pets for good reason. The raccoon must be euthanized or released within the county of capture on private property in which you have permission to release the raccoon. What Should I Consider Before Getting A Pet Raccoon? Although North Carolina does not have specific laws regarding exotic animal ownership, it is forbidden by the state to own a pet raccoon. Contact your local health department if raccoon exhibits signs of rabies such as stumbling, foaming at the mouth or aggression. If you find a raccoon that has been domesticated or rehabilitated, they can be a loving and playful pet. Indeed, raccoon hunting is widely popular in the region and there are many raccoon hunter clubs and competitions being held yearly. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Raccoons are fur-bearing animals that humans can trap during hunting season. Raccoons are viewed to be a nuisance and a destructive force to homeowners as well as landowners. Would love your thoughts, please comment. This Exotic Pet Is Legal in Your State - PetHelpful Despite this, raccoons are very intelligent creatures and are great problem solvers. Before owning a pet raccoon, you must obtain a permit accompanied by two years of wildlife care experience. All organizations that accept animals must hold a Permit to Hold Game in Captivity, allowing them to rehabilitate the animal and return them safely to the wild. 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. Texas considers raccoons as wild animals, and they are illegal to possess without approved permits from the U.S. Department of Fish and Game. Can I Own A Raccoon In Ohio? - CLJ Raccoons are intelligent therefore can be trained as a domestic pet, however if that raccoon was to leave that place it calls home, it can be a danger for the rest of the surrounding public. Iowa The unmistakable raccoon is abundant and widespread throughout the state, yet, it is illegal to own a pet raccoon. 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. In most states, it is only the possession of certain species that are banned, not every exotic animal. 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. In addition to checking the laws surrounding ownership, look carefully at regulations for raccoon owners. Will you respect its boundaries as an animal that can't truly be domesticated? Tip They can also be great fun once your raccoon has been domesticated you will find they are very playful. There are restrictions in some cases, like how states require licensure and permits for owning a raccoon. You may legally own a raccoon as a pet in several states across America. In most states where owning a raccoon is legal, like Michigan, a veterinary examination is required. If a provider discovers you own a pet they consider dangerous and you havent informed them of it, they could deem the animal too much of a risk and, Final tip: by using the Jerry app, you could, on your search for pet-friendly home insurance. Close up all openings under and into your buildings. Exotic Animal Laws by U.S. State Mapped - Vivid Maps and can be dangerous to people and other animals, including livestock, so theyre illegal to keep as pets without a permit. Disclaimer: The information contained on this website is for general use only and is not legal advice. The Rehabilitation Permit allows humans to house wild animals temporarily while rehabilitating them. Today, raccoons are extremely rare in the state. Although not native to the region, raccoons can be found in Utah. I used it for my auto and renters policies. South Carolina 11. You also might need to spend money on new toys for mental and physical enrichment. 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. 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. Adoption opportunities are usually few and far between for raccoons unless you are part of a wildlife rehabilitation network. Plus, these North American natives are nocturnal, meaning they're most active at night. 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. There is no limit to the number of exotic or wild animals you can possess in Florida. Freshwater Mussel Restoration. Raccoons are intelligent animals, known for their good memories and problem-solving abilities. To learn more about this, you need to explore the exotic pet laws in your state or country -it may also be county-specific, depending on where you live. Courtesy of. Forgetting to plan for medical emergencies can also cost you money in the long run. Pet raccoons are illegal in Maine because they can carry parasites and rabies, and may cause many problems when it is in close proximity to humans. However, raccoons are too active to be content in a cage for several hours. You can legally own a raccoon as a pet in sixteen states. Brought from Mississippi to be served for the 1926 Thanksgiving dinner, she was saved and kept as a pet by former US president Calvin Coolidge and his wife Grace. So, you must be prepared to invest significant amounts of money if you intend on owning pet raccoons. There is no substitute for competent legal counsel. These animals can range from rats (hence the phrase lab rats) to monkeys. The Wyoming law authorizes Wyomingites to keep pet raccoons as well as other animals such as ostriches, coyotes, and red foxes without any permits. Make sure that you are keeping it in a safe and enclosed area, large enough for it to have a lot of roaming space and filled with things for it to climb on and stay active. In Delaware for example, it is mandatory to acquire a wildlife rehabilitator permit from the Division of Fish and Wildlife before owning a raccoon. If you intend on adopting a raccoon, you must take it to a veterinarian for a thorough examination. They often use their dexterous front paws to search through holes or pick up objects of interest as they explore their surroundings. They were most likely introduced at the beginning of the 20th century. How hot cities could be in 2050 Keep trash inside until the morning of trash pick-up or place trash in an animal proof container, such as a metal trashcan with latches on the lids. , so theyre outlawed in Virginia unless you have the proper permit. Raccoons are on the prohibited list of animals, meaning they are illegal to own as pets in the country. Stay up to date on the latest news and events. Raccoon coats became widely popular until the Great Depression when the wild animals that survived were offered as pets. 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. Avoid letting it roam free on the streets you dont know what it can do. Clear overhanging tree limbs and branches which may be providing wildlife access to structures. They can also be watched, photographed, and hunted. Raccoons Can Be Dangerous To Health and Safety, Owning A Raccoon May Not Be Legal In Your State. That way, you can make sure you have the right amount of, You hope it would never become necessary, but if your pet. Meanwhile, no permit is needed to hunt and trap these wild animals during legal harvest seasons if one already holds a hunting or trapping license. Arkansas 2. Learn how to create a happy, healthy home for your pet. Those are Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Yet, it is by far the most important furbearer in terms of total pelt value and number harvested in the state. Raccoons are protected in the state of Minnesota, it is therefore illegal to possess a pet raccoon. Delaware is one of the few states that allow its inhabitants to have a pet raccoon. A hunting or trapping license is also required to hunt or trap them during the open season. If you are feeding wildlife, stop. Even though the state forbids the possession of pet raccoons, this wild animal can be hunted and trapped. This species is very adaptable to urban areas, and are nocturnal, meaning they come out mostly at night; however just seeing them during the day is not a sign of rabies. Majestic as they might be, wolves arent domesticated to the degree that your German Shepherd is. In many ways, the pet raccoon acts similarly to house dogs. Are you able to provide a proper and enriching environment for the animal? Indiana 5. However, there are some states where one can have a pet raccoon. Local ordinances are usually more restrictive than state laws. Indeed, raccoons are responsible for 60% of the cases of rabies in the state of Maryland. 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. Wisconsin 14. What pets are banned in West Virginia? | WOWK - WOWK 13 News Can I Legally Have A Raccoon As A Pet? (A List Of States - Floofmania The major problems associated with this species involve their ability to invade houses or trashcans. For instance in Michigan, you can keep a raccoon as a pet as long as it meets two qualifications: the ownership of the raccoon has to be approved by a veterinarian, and the owner has to have a wild animal permit. Finding a veterinarian for your exotic pet can be difficult, as not all vets have experience in raccoons. Raccoons require an abundant diet of natural resources. In California, it is illegal to keep raccoons as pets due to their classification as wild animals. 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. In order to do this, they have to fill out and submit a wild game permit application. How much does it cost to add another driver to my car insurance? If they don't have enough of their own toys to play withor they're just curious or boredyou might find them chewing on your door frames, ripping up your bedsheets, knocking over decor items, and more. The permit is free and will last two years. That is why laws are put into place. The little mammal can also be hunted and trapped during the hunting season. Litter training them is similar to how one would teach a cat to use a litter box. Big cat species like lions, tigers, and jaguars. According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, you do not require a license to own up to six raccoons in captivity. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Formal training and experience with animal handling should be taken into consideration before handling any form of wild animal, however it is not always that these factors are thoroughly checked.