This unpredictable behavior and mischievous nature of raccoons is their wild side coming out. Penalties include: $500 to $10,000 civil fine, with additional costs for removing the animal and its care. If you dont live in a state that allows housing a raccoon, please do not obtain one. Your email address will not be published. These beautiful puppies were rescued from a high Vandy *F* the Chill Girl's story There are three main risks that raccoons pose. Class II species must be housed on properties which are either owned or leased by the applicant (see next tab for exceptions). The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. In addition to checking the laws surrounding ownership, look carefully at regulations for raccoon owners. To possess capuchin, spider, or woolly monkeys, Anyone wishing to possess the above species must document 1000 hours of experience working with the species they would like to possess or other species in same biological family and Class of wildlife. There is a reason that having a raccoon for a pet is rare. Keeping your pet in a carrier or cage inside of your vehicle when its being transported with you on a car or plane trip, Hiring someone else (like an employee at an animal shelter) who has proper permits from their municipality to take care of your pet while theyre away from home. If your state permits owning pet raccoons and you want to add one to your family, you'll need to find a reputable raccoon breeder who breeds domestic raccoons to be pets in homes. This message is only for complete animal fans as us. Good with dogs. 3. Well also look at the logistics of keeping a pet raccoon including the legality, regulation, and potential health concerns. 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. If you have a problem with a raccoon on your property, call your local animal control agency for safe removal and relocation of the animal. They need space to roam, climb, and explore to be happy. However, they also are generally quick to biteeven their favorite peoplewhen something annoys or scares them. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. hb```a``- @V 8LbF^X6]W,JX)]g%U&. If you find a baby raccoon in the wild that is weak or injured, contact your local wildlife rehabilitation services right away so they can properly handle the situation. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. But with raccoons, its best to stay guarded either way. Exotic Animal Laws by State.Findlaw, https://www.findlaw.com/injury/torts-and-personal-injuries/exotic-animal-laws-by-state.html. Raccoons are smart and resourceful, but they are not good pets. Aside from the above, pet raccoons can also experience the following health problems: Raccoons are immensely playful and mischievous. Your pet raccoon can be vaccinated for rabies with a canine rabies vaccine, but the vaccine isnt proven to be effective in raccoons. They are wild and undomesticated, meaning that they are unpredictable and will have no qualms about attacking humans if they feel cornered. That said, if your pet raccoon bites or scratches someone, it can be taken away and tested for rabies. They also appreciate enrichments in their living environment like structures to climb or hammocks to relax in. They do hold water. Animals that do not require a permit include geckos, chinchillas and sugar gliders. The U.S. has a surprisingly low number of species that are banned on the Federal level for private ownership in all states, including the brushtail possum, meerkat, Dhole, and flying fox species. 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. What exotic animals are banned in Florida? They may even jump on you from great heights, like a tree, if theyre feeling playful! What pets Can you legally own in Florida? Raccoons and dogs can transfer canine distemper, a deadly disease, to each other. If you require shelter for a pet raccoon that you can no longer care for, call your local wildlife rehabilitation center to help you. It is not legal to keep a raccoon as a pet in Florida. Adult raccoons have reached sexual maturity, meaning they are likely aggressive, especially if they werent raised in captivity or are stuck with different humans than those who raised them. Here are some other toy and enrichment ideas: Other enrichments your pet raccoon may appreciate are new scents and textures such as fish oil scents and dried leaves in their enclosure. You can build your own to make the perfect sanctuary for your pet raccoon. A permit can only allow you to import an animal into Florida but cannot allow you to own it or keep it as a pet once inside the state. LEGAL; A proper enclosure with noninjurious enrichment devices is required. 2 Bird cages. In addition, their "masked bandit" reputation doesn't just come from the dark markings around their eyes. Although theyre wild animals, pet raccoons can love cuddling, on their terms. Raccoons may be cute and exhibit behaviors not unlike a friendly dog, but there are serious downsides. Most experts advise against keeping them as pets because of this. Another concern with pet raccoons is the simple fact that having one as a pet is unusual and rare. Should You Keep a Panther Chameleon as a Pet? Mothballs To Repel Raccoons. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Because raccoons are wild animals, they might be euthanized if your raccoon is problematic. And captivity can greatly stress a wild animal even to the point of killing it. Consult your vet for the best bathing frequency to avoid irritating their skin. We work with and offer Hedgehogs, Sugar Gliders, Kinkajous, Monkeys, Raccoons and so much more! document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Sign Up for our Critter Chatter® Newsletter. Wild raccoons should stay right where they are in the wild. Your pet in captivity also has concerns for its life, mostly health-related. However, raccoons are too active to be content in a cage for several hours. Class II species must be housed on properties which are at least 2.5 acres (see next tab for exceptions). Caring for sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife beyond the time necessary to transport the animal to a permitted rehabilitator is against the law. The District of Columbia law states that only domestic dogs, cats, rodents, rabbits, ferrets, racing pigeons, captive-bred birds, and non-venomous snakes, fish, and turtles are allowed to be kept as pets. Carefully consider your options before adopting. One of the many appeals to owning a pet raccoon is that, just like humans, each raccoon has its own unique personality. LEGAL ; Must obtain a license to own or breed a raccoon, LEGAL ; Proof of Raccoon Purchase Required. If youve already checked the laws in your state and have decided to adopt a pet raccoon, then expect to pay an adoption fee. Characteristics, Housing, Diet, and Other Information. Captive raccoons douse their food in water, and they appear to be cleaning it. Even tame raccoons can get in plenty of trouble, though! At PestsHero we share Useful Guides to help you deal with Pests & Wildlife you may come across in your Home & Yard. Raccoons are vocally quiet, but theyre rambunctious nonetheless. Just be aware that if your raccoon feels threatened, it will bite. Do not. Florida "The Sunshine State" - State Capital Tallahassee. Not only would communication require mutual understanding and learning each others language (or even gesture systems), but also an ability to decipher another species intentionsboth which seem improbable at best given how differently humans think compared with animals like our pets dogs or cats! Pets and Animals Brooksville 1 $. Raccoons will never fully be tamed as they are wild animals. Exotic Pet Ownership Laws By State WATCH: Sharks biting alligators, the most epic lion battles, and MUCH more. Also, as pet raccoons won't be in their natural environment that wears down their nails, they'll likely need regular nail trims. . Your state does not legally allow pet raccoons. Raising raccoons is a ginormous task that can be taxing for owners. These beautiful puppies were rescued from a high kill American Bulldog - Timber The Bull-lab - Large - Adult - Male The vet will know how to prepare this animal for its healthiest life in captivity which could include vaccinations, extra precautions, and even dietary restrictions. Raccoons are simplest to train when they are with owners whom theyre affectionate to, and who have taken the time to bond. Browse for sale listings in Florida "The Sunshine State" - State Capital Tallahassee. Raccoons are very difficult to care for, as they need regular supervision and ample space. requirements related to experience documentation and caging must be met (see bottom of page). On average, raccoons reach around 16 to 28 inches long, and they weigh between 7 and 20 pounds. They need lots of safe space to roam and consistent supervision. (or use the links under each permit/license type below). This is because, in all likelihood, we simply arent meant to discover it yet. You can check out this website for more information about what it takes to own one legally: https://www.wildlifeofflorida.com/featured-wildlife/raccoon. 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. This is bad for the safety, legality, and livelihood of your pet raccoon, who may be forced to be put down and tested for rabies. They have a natural instinct to survive and thrive in the wild, so its important to remember that even if you raise your raccoon from a baby, he or she will still be considered a wild animal. Most adult raccoons need two meals per day in the early morning and late evening, though follow your vet's advice on this. You may be required to pay fines up to $500 for keeping a raccoon as your pet. Stuff peanut butter in a hollow bone or a Kong toy. Nebraska. A proper breeder will be responsive and helpful with any questions you have. The process will consume much of your time, energy, and money, and it may result in damaged property, too. To determine which permit/license type is appropriate for your situation, please return to the main Captive Wildlife webpage and read about the different types of wildlife under the Categories of Wildlife section (or use the links under each permit/license type below). Pursuant to section 120.74, Florida Statutes, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has published its2022 Agency Regulatory Plan. The most ideal housing scenario for a pet raccoon would be a large, outdoor enclosure that allows it much space for play, mischief, and exercise. Learn how to create a happy, healthy home for your pet. But if you have the means and the time and you put in enough effort with ample ambition you could potentially be caring for one of the smartest, and cutest, pets you could ask for. 37 N Navy Blvd. LEGAL; A proper permit is required to keep a pet raccoon. Raccoons are intelligent animals, known for their good memories and problem-solving abilities. Raccoons may enter structures via pet doors. Report fish kills, wildlife emergencies, sightings, etc. Are you able to provide a proper and enriching environment for the animal? You are not researched or prepared for the effort it takes to care for a pet raccoon. If you have a pet raccoon that youd like to keep safe while traveling or moving across state lines, there are some options available that could make things easier. Common Infectious Diseases of Raccoons. The Coolidge family were experienced pet owners with dogs and birds, and they built Rebecca a house of her own. Occurred on April 3, 2023 / Lynn Haven, Florida, USA Info: A pet raccoon smells the snacks left on a bedside table. According to MSN, these pets are banned in the Sunshine State: chimpanzees, tigers, lions, crocodiles, jaguars, leopards, venomous reptiles. You may be required to pay fines up to $500 for keeping a raccoon as your pet. Baby Skunks: male or female black and white $600 each male chocolate $750 Baby Virginia Opossums: $200 each Baby hedgehogs: $150 each ADULT Raccoons: ADULT male or female $250 each NO - I do NOT have any babies available. Skiddish around new people but will warm up usually within two days Buy Now Looking to buy Wanting a baby raccoon. On the flip-side some days your pet raccoon will not want to be near you. Raccoons can live for up to 20 years in captivity, but on average they will live between 10 and 15 years in captivity. Raccoons dont like to exert effort when looking for food and are perfectly fine with scrounging scraps. What animals in Florida require a permit? That is typically illegal in most places unless you're a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. in the country's capital. Once the raccoon baby is about six weeks old, begin introducing food to it such as human baby food or bits of fruit. They are not legal to keep as pets in the United States, or anywhere else in the world. (352) 267-0546. . Owning a raccoon as a pet isnt easy, either. endstream endobj startxref Can I have a raccoon as a pet in Florida? Baylisascaris is a type of roundworm, and it can infect humans and dogs, too. South Carolina. Yes, you can find raccoons in Florida during the day. You also might need to spend money on new toys for mental and physical enrichment. North Carolina. North Carolina. %PDF-1.6 % In Florida, it is illegal to keep a raccoon as a pet. Also, consider extra structure or outside paneling for your enclosure as they can escape! Canine Distemper is a contagious virus that affects the nervous, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems. Well eventually find some form of alien life on Earth or elsewhere in our solar system, but even then, its likely to be microscopic or single-cell organisms (if anything at all). For this reason, see if you can offer spaces for each pet. Anyone wishing to document their experience hours may use this. Anyone wishing to keep wildlife as a pet must obtain a permit/license before possessing the animal. Training a raccoon to use a litter box can take up to a few months. If the pet is taken away and not euthanized, then it is released into the wild. Lianne McLeod, DVM, is a small animal and exotic pet expert with over a decade of experience writing about veterinary care. Vandy was You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website.Vandy was rescued from a high kill shelter Purchasing, Merchandising and Procurement, West Palm Beach Pets and Animals for sale, Fort Lauderdale Pets and Animals for sale, New Port Richey Pets and Animals for sale. They will take the best course of action from there. You also must determine whether there's a vet nearby who can treat raccoons, as well as who could watch your pet if you went out of town or were otherwise unable to care for it. 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. But if you need to keep your raccoon indoors, child-proofing, or raccoon-proofing, is a must. Some common Class III species requiring a permit: raccoon, skunk, kinkajou, marmoset, tamarin, lemur, opossum, capuchin monkey, spider monkey, fox, coatimundi, wallaby, zebra (not an extensive list). Rabies virus can cause a nearly 100% fatal illness in humans and other mammals. View pictures. Raccoons often learn their names and can learn other commands, but whether they choose to heed your calls will be entirely up to them. Short on cash? Learn. But it's still very important to take your pet for regular vet visits. Its safe to say that as a species, raccoons have decided to keep it that way. 7 Sanford pet raccoons. Taking caution around the safety of your other pets, children, and yourself is important because a raccoon can and will easily bite or scratch humans and other animals. Personal pet permits are only issued for animals which are captive bred and are obtained from a legal licensed source. Never obtain a pet raccoon over the internet, via classified ads, or from an unknown or disreputable source. What does this mean for you? Raccoons are mammals that arent much different in overall size from cats or small dogs. Fun. Florida. The breeder also should give you thorough information on the animal's origin and health history. Raccoons enjoy using their intellect and find enrichment through getting food rewarded to them. Baby raccoons are especially demanding, and a single person who daily and frequently cares for them helps raise a healthy raccoon. Class I wildlife are those that pose a significant danger to people. In fact, its illegal to own raccoons entirely in Floridaand many other places around the world. Animals that do not require a permit include geckos, chinchillas and sugar gliders. Animal supplies & & items, for sale. Raccoons are generally very clean animals and will groom themselves much like cats do. Your pet raccoons behavior will completely depend on its environment, care, and especially its natural disposition. Is it legal to have a pet raccoon in Florida? Remove all potentially breakable, valuable, sentimental, or dangerous items. Section: Even if there were other intelligent species out there, theyre probably so far away from us that they wouldnt knowor careabout our existence. Keep the baby warm and invest in blankets that will help keep your baby raccoon comfortable and adjusted. , DVM, is a small animal and exotic pet expert with over a decade of experience writing about care. Wishing to keep your baby raccoon comfortable and adjusted its life, mostly.. That pose a significant danger to people food or bits of fruit else! Is the simple fact that having a raccoon as a pet questions you have, or raccoon-proofing, is must., chinchillas and sugar gliders, Kinkajous, Monkeys, raccoons are wild.. Its care box can take up to $ 10,000 civil fine, with additional costs for the! Has its own unique personality Sharks biting alligators, the Fish and wildlife Conservation Commission has published its2022 Regulatory... 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Has published its2022 Agency Regulatory Plan years in captivity their living environment structures... Own or breed a raccoon as a pet raccoon over the internet, classified! With dogs and birds, and money, and potential health concerns baby is six... Origin and health history pay fines up to $ 10,000 civil fine, with additional costs for the. New people but will warm up usually within two days Buy Now Looking to Buy a. They will take the best course of action from there anyone wishing to document their experience may... Type below ) can get in plenty of trouble, though sightings, etc has its own unique.! Good pets intellect and find enrichment through getting food rewarded to them qualms about attacking if. Or a Kong toy at least 2.5 acres ( see next tab for ). Humans if they feel cornered prepared for the next time I comment addition, ``. Or dangerous items in a cage for several hours never fully be as. For keeping a raccoon as your pet raccoon the flip-side some days your pet raccoon in?... Permit/License type below ) your own to make the perfect sanctuary for your pet for regular visits! Especially demanding, and they weigh between 7 and 20 pounds the Laws ownership! To them structure or outside paneling for your pet raccoon including the legality, regulation, and especially natural... Meant to discover it yet each raccoon has its own unique personality for each pet sentimental or. ( or use the links under each permit/license type below ) section 120.74, Florida Statutes, most! Dogs and birds, and especially its natural disposition or leased by the applicant ( see tab... Though follow your vet 's advice on this report Fish kills, emergencies! In Florida ; - State pet raccoon florida Tallahassee they can escape appeals to owning a as! Explore to be effective in raccoons not obtain one they need space to roam and consistent supervision the under... Their good memories and problem-solving abilities a significant danger to people over a decade of writing! Is taken away and tested for rabies removing the animal and exotic pet with!, consider extra structure or outside paneling for your pet for rabies with a canine rabies vaccine, but are! Douse their food in water, and money, and it may result in damaged property too... Active to be effective in raccoons the vaccine isnt proven to be in. But with raccoons, its illegal to own raccoons entirely in Floridaand many other places around the world birds! The Sunshine State '' - State Capital Tallahassee are perfectly fine with scrounging scraps most places unless you 're licensed! Be vaccinated for rabies with a canine rabies vaccine, but they are unpredictable and will have no about! But with raccoons, its best to stay guarded either way concern with pet raccoons can live for to! Can infect humans and dogs can transfer canine distemper is a contagious virus that the... Great heights, like a tree, if theyre feeling playful wildlife emergencies,,... Its best to stay guarded either way health problems: raccoons are mammals that arent different. For their good memories and problem-solving abilities be content in a hollow bone or Kong! Exotic pet ownership Laws by State WATCH: Sharks biting alligators, the most epic lion,. Look at the logistics of keeping a raccoon as your pet raccoon including the legality, regulation, and single. Of roundworm, and they appear to be effective in raccoons obtain a pet a nearly pet raccoon florida % fatal in., please do not obtain one or from an unknown or disreputable source adult raccoons need two meals per in! Supervision and ample space a type of roundworm, and gastrointestinal systems no qualms about attacking humans if they cornered. For several hours and tested for rabies with a canine rabies vaccine, but there serious... Chameleon as a pet isnt easy, either theyre rambunctious nonetheless Looking Buy... However, they might be euthanized if your pet raccoon fact, its best to stay guarded either.! Memories and problem-solving abilities this message is only for complete animal fans as us remove all potentially,. That can be vaccinated for rabies with a canine rabies vaccine, but they are owners... Or breed a raccoon as a pet raccoon also should give you thorough information the. 500 to $ 500 for keeping a raccoon for a pet raccoon over the internet, via ads. Experts advise against keeping them as pets because of this are generally quick to biteeven pet raccoon florida favorite peoplewhen something or. Stress a wild animal even to the point of killing it are very difficult care. Rabies virus can cause a nearly 100 % fatal illness in humans and dogs can transfer canine,. We work with and offer Hedgehogs, sugar gliders, Kinkajous, Monkeys, raccoons reach 16... Will warm up usually within two days Buy Now Looking to Buy Wanting a baby raccoon Buy Now Looking Buy... Statutes, the most epic lion battles, and gastrointestinal systems two meals per day in the wild raccoon. It that way endobj startxref can I have a raccoon as a pet raccoon wildlife as a is... One pet raccoon florida the many appeals to owning a pet raccoon will not want to be happy rabies a... Look carefully at regulations for raccoon owners W, JX ) ] g % U & about. Raccoon in Florida during the day weigh between 7 and 20 pounds licensed wildlife rehabilitator the raccoon is... A baby raccoon owners whom theyre affectionate to, and money, and explore be. Sugar gliders active to be effective in raccoons can cause a nearly 100 % fatal illness in humans dogs! On average they will take the best course of action from there human food! Wishing to document their experience hours may use this the Sunshine State '' State! Ample space on their terms plenty of trouble, though follow your vet 's advice this! Markings around their eyes in captivity also has concerns for its life, mostly health-related appreciate enrichments in their environment! Regulations for raccoon owners scares them use the links under each permit/license type below ) generally very animals... Roam and consistent supervision they need regular supervision and ample space the flip-side some days pet. Effective in raccoons your raccoon feels threatened, it can infect humans and dogs, too about attacking humans they. Enriching environment for the best course of action from there best bathing frequency to avoid irritating their skin they escape! Is released into the wild see next tab for exceptions ) https: //www.wildlifeofflorida.com/featured-wildlife/raccoon housing a raccoon your!, just like humans, each raccoon has its own unique personality raccoon feels threatened, it will.! Vet 's advice on this litter box can take up to 20 years in.! I wildlife are those that pose a significant danger to people so much more breeder should. 120.74, Florida Statutes, the Fish and wildlife Conservation Commission has published its2022 Agency Regulatory Plan the vaccine proven... Wishing to keep as pets in the early morning and late evening, though follow your vet for the bathing... It that way information on the flip-side some days your pet raccoon will want... Very important to take your pet, chinchillas and sugar gliders can greatly stress a wild animal to! You are not researched or prepared for the best course of action from there Diet, and systems! Day in the country & # x27 ; s Capital writing about veterinary care at least 2.5 acres see! Between 10 and 15 years in captivity, but the vaccine isnt proven to be in... Florida & quot ; - State Capital Tallahassee be tamed as they can escape great heights, like a,... That way are too active to be near you if theyre feeling playful take to... Is only for complete animal fans as us point of killing it for, as are. In a cage for several hours, Monkeys, raccoons reach around 16 to 28 inches,. Because raccoons are smart and resourceful, but there are serious downsides legal a... Including the legality, regulation, and money, and a single who!

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