can you own a raccoon in virginia

A hunting or trapping license is also required to hunt or trap them during the open season. It is unlawful to possess 6 or more bobcat, coyote, deer, gray fox, red fox, opossum, quail, rabbit, raccoon and squirrel. You may legally own a raccoon as a pet in several states across America. 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. Contact your local health department if raccoon exhibits signs of rabies such as stumbling, foaming at the mouth or aggression. Nebraska 7. I used it for my auto and renters policies. In Delaware for example, it is mandatory to acquire a wildlife rehabilitator permit from the Division of Fish and Wildlife before owning a raccoon. Majestic as they might be, wolves arent domesticated to the degree that your German Shepherd is. The world you establish for the raccoon is very limited. Plus, they have established latrine areas, which means they are already litterbox trained. Question: Can you own a raccoon in California? Be sure to provide your raccoon with a suitable living space. In the state of Delaware, Raccoons are considered wild animals that require a permit to own or rehabilitate. 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. Raccoons are considered wild or exotic pets and do not typically make great pets because of their unpredictability. Rules vary from state to state and laws often change; do not rely on this website if making a legal decision, seek a lawyer. It is important to know the traits of the raccoon to understand what you are getting yourself into as an owner. Visit with the animal in person before you commit; don't acquire an animal over the internet or via a classified ad. These animals have a mischievous appearance, often sporting a bandit-like mask over their eyes. They are protected by law. Pet raccoons are expensive after factoring in the many investments you will need to make throughout your lifetime. Pet raccoons are illegal in many areas, and even where they are legal there are many laws surrounding their ownership. that present dangers to humans, which makes them a public health risk and therefore not an ideal pet for the average person. These diseases can potentially be dangerous for the animals currently living in those environments. But they are rather stubborn and selective about when they want to obey. Being active during the daytime is part of their domesticated behavior, which humans cannot teach to wild raccoons. 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. 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. However, for many animal activists out there this isnt accepted well. The main reason provided is the threat of rabies. 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. The basic diet of a raccoon consists of both poultry and plants. It costs significantly more to own raccoons than to own a domestic animal. Some also enjoy playing with toys like balls. They are commonly seen during the day in urban and suburban areas and are usually attracted there by a food source or an easily accessed area to make a den such as under porches/decks, crawl spaces or out-buildings. 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 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. How to find car and home insurance quotes online, Finding the right policy as a pet owner can get complicated, but here are some pointers from. They are agile, and they love to play with humans. Is it legal to own a pet raccoon in Michigan? The state prohibits the possession of pet raccoons. It's only legal in 16 states to own pet raccoons. 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. Their cute appearances and cuddly personalities make them seem like the perfect pet. However, they also are generally quick to biteeven their favorite peoplewhen something annoys or scares them. 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. These animals require a lot of space, upkeep, and supervision. You'll need to find out if your state allows them before bringing one into your home. It is legal to own a raccoon in the following states: Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. 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 . Common Infectious Diseases of Raccoons. Learn how to create a happy, healthy home for your pet. In fact, the Wisconsin Conservation Department sponsored a major raccoon propagation program between the 1930s and the 1950s that was responsible for the release of more than a thousand raccoons every year. Raccoons are a common sight in the region. As well as this, you have to recognize that raccoons are one of the largest spreaders of disease, most commonly rabies. That is typically illegal in most places unless you're a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. And many do become quite cuddly or playful at times. These states are: However, even though there are laws against the ownership of raccoons, those laws do not necessarily apply to all exotic animals. Because they are so affectionate, many people seek out relationships with these endearing animals. There are no permits or licenses that make owning pet raccoons in Australia legal. Raccoons are made for the outdoors and, even as a pet, can cause the same mischief as they would in the wild. Many people build their own pen from wood and screening. Raccoons tend to go through a heavy shedding period at least once a year, as well as in times of stress. 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. An outdoor pen should be as large as possible with walls and a ceiling that will contain your animal. 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. West Virginia 13. . The raccoon is a Class III animal. Tip No Kill Permit Required from Department to kill on your own land during closed season. 7 Kinds of Primates That Are Kept as Pets, Serval Cat: Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care. Forgetting to plan for medical emergencies can also cost you money in the long run. 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. So, there are plenty of animals you cant keep as pets in Virginia. The wild animal can also be hunted and trapped without possessing a hunting or trapping license. Experts recommend spending time around raccoons via wildlife rehabilitation or exotic veterinary practices to see what they're really like. The unmistakable raccoon is abundant and widespread throughout the state, yet, it is illegal to own a pet raccoon. More than rats, raccoons are the most widespread animal in New York State. Some raccoons can be trained to use a litter box. 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. For instance, raccoons are relatively clean mammals. The state requires a vet evaluation and a rabies pre-exposure immunization. Raccoons are not desert animals (and pet raccoons even less), but the wild animal can be found in the Arizonian land close to its lakes, reservoirs, and streams. Additionally, food for your pet raccoon will be costlier than the food needed for domestic animals like dogs or cats. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. When applying for a permit, it is important in Wyoming that you select the permit based on your intention with the individual pet. to help you make that insurance shopping process a little easier. It is not legal to own raccoons in every state, so you should check the legality in your state before adopting a raccoon. This native mammal inhabits woodlands and marshes in rural and urban areas throughout North America. 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, Arizanonian hunters, equipped with a hunting permit, can pursue them with dogs and trap them. The average adult raccoon measures between 20 and 40 inches long and typically weighs 10 to 30 pounds. 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. It is only to be expected with keeping them as a pet. 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. No, you can't own a pet raccoon in the state of Wisconsin. Treats, such as nuts and other fatty foods, should be offered sparingly to prevent obesity. Even though the state forbids the possession of pet raccoons, this wild animal can be hunted and trapped. And captivity can greatly stress a wild animal even to the point of killing it. Opinions vary, and in many states, raccoons are illegal to keep as pets. These animals can be dangerous to the environment because they can disrupt the ecosystem by introducing new diseases and stealing food. Raccoons are naturally present throughout South Dakota. How much does it cost to add another driver to my car insurance? It is therefore illegal to possess, import, propagate, or sell raccoons. July 23, 2018. If you find a raccoon that has been domesticated or rehabilitated, they can be a loving and playful pet. 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. This is a great option when you're busy or need to leave your home and want your pet to have a safe space to play. Some states also limit the number of raccoons and deem ownership of these animals as partially legal. It shouldnt come by as too much of a surprise if you find them eating your couch and knocking ornaments over. Today, raccoons are extremely rare in the state. Possessing a raccoon could lead to fines and even criminal charges, depending on the circumstances. They often use their dexterous front paws to search through holes or pick up objects of interest as they explore their surroundings. It is illegal in the State of Virginia to trap and relocate an animal to another area. There is no restriction on the number of raccoons that you may own. Florida 4. Mississippi law is clear: it is unlawful for someone to import, transfer, sell, purchase, or possess a pet raccoon because it is considered to be inherently dangerous. For obvious reasons, crocodiles dont make the safest pets. 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. An experienced vet should be able to do this for you. This is the reason why Iowas legislation bans owning, possessing, breeding, and importing raccoons. And even when they're born in captivity or raised by humans, they typically retain their wild traits. However, it is forbidden to trap or shoot them without a nuisance wildlife permit. There are a lot of pet owners in the state of Vermont, but none of them may possess a pet raccoon. They are rare, however. Some time has passed since Rebecca the pet raccoon was a distinguished occupant of the White House. 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. 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. Although not native to the region, raccoons can be found in Utah. Raccoons are quite adept at breaking through latches and other secured areas if their curiosity gets the best of them. Finding a veterinarian for your exotic pet. Place various climbing frames raccoons like to climb and it is important that you surround it with familiarities to engage its instincts. Expect to pay between $300 and $700 on average, though this can vary widely. Inside, your raccoon should have access to food, water, shelter, and structures (e.g., large branches) for climbing and jumping. But a recent bill amended this law to remove that limitation, meaning that it is now legal to . Raccoons are viewed to be a nuisance and a destructive force to homeowners as well as landowners. There are strict restrictions placed on them, meaning they can no longer be bred or sold within the borders of the United Kingdom. If youre hoping to own a wild or exotic animal in Virginia. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. The population greatly expanded its reach since the 1940s, when they were common only in the eastern part of the state. One of the most common diseases these wild animals may carry is roundworms. You must have a special permit to own raccoons in Rhode Island, like all other exotic animals. Electric fencing can be very effective in keeping wildlife out of crops, beehives and structures. Raccoons are found in both rural and urban environments throughout the United States. States often prohibit the adoption or possession of raccoons because they carry various diseases, including rabies, and may create a health hazard. That means your home must be raccoon-proofed. Virginia residents who have a raccoon as a pet may not be aware that these animals can be dangerous, especially when they are young. If you intend on adopting a raccoon, you must take it to a veterinarian for a thorough examination. Without permits, people in Indiana cannot own the following: foxes, raccoons, skunks, wolves, bears, wild cats, venomous reptiles, or crocodiles.

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