hb```a``- @V 8LbF^X6]W,JX)]g%U&. If they get too playful, they can nip, bite or scratch humans easily, even their favorite ones, so be careful when playing with a pet raccoon. 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. Fish tanks. Leave small fish in their pond to fish for. An exotic veterinarian who knows raccoons might be able to point you toward a good breeder. %%EOF South Carolina. Raccoons bred and raised in a home with humans can bond more easily and adjust faster to life as domestic animals as opposed to a wild raccoons. Be prepared to invest a lot of time and money in raccoon care. Your pet raccoon should also be vaccinated against canine distemper. Raccoons may enter structures via pet doors. Lock your pet door at night or install one that opens with an electronic pet collar. They also appreciate enrichments in their living environment like structures to climb or hammocks to relax in. At least set the raccoons space up so that other pets can flee easily or vise versa. 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. Raccoons are intelligent enough to problem solve, and they can easily use their wit to get themselves in or out of trouble. Baylisascaris in humans can be disastrous as this roundworm can make its way to the brain, cause blindness, and even cause loss of muscle control. Raccoons can also be trained to use a litter box, and this is recommended for easy pet clean-up. Anyone wishing to possess a Class III game animal as a personal pet (no breeding) should obtain a PPNC in lieu of a Game Farm License. If you live in one of these states and youre interested in owning a raccoon, its important to conduct your own research about the local laws regarding owning an exotic pet. Unfortunately, too many humans take in a raccoon, only to realize how truly wild the animal is, and then they give or shoo the raccoon away. How do you get rid of Cuban frogs in Florida? Be sure to watch how much you are feeding your pet raccoon. Even if your pet raccoon is neutered or spayed, it will still exhibit wild behavior. Still, a raccoon can be taught commands, litter-trained, and even go on walks. If you do keep a raccoon as a pet and are caught by the authorities, you can be charged with a misdemeanor and/or felony. Additionally, you cant take your raccoon out in public. While theres not always a cause for concern if you spy a raccoon in your neighborhood every so often, you should definitely contact the pros at Critter Control of Tampa should you encounter signs of a raccoon problem at your property. Animal supplies & & items, for sale. For that reason, its important to check all possible escape routes of your pet raccoon so it doesnt get out. Captive raccoons can be prone to obesity if they aren't given enough space to roam. Due to their nature, habits, and status, Class I wildlife may not be possessed as a personal pet. 620 S. Meridian St. Tallahassee, FL (850) 488-4676 Though highly unusual and extremely rare, a decently domesticated raccoon can make a wonderful pet. LEGAL; A proper permit is required to keep a pet raccoon. Its ideal to raise a raccoon with at least one other raccoon so that they are socialized and fulfilled. 2.5 years old Do not take in a wild baby raccoon for any reason. However, scientists are finding evidence against this and speculate this action is based on instinct. 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. Owning a raccoon is not a job to be taken lightly, so its also important to accept that your raccoon may never be truly domesticated. Its instinctual for raccoons to form bonds in their youth. 211 0 obj <>stream In fact, your raccoons personality can seem to flip on a switch, and they can suddenly become aggressive or destructive. And some do enjoy cuddling with their humans. Gently brushing them during this time can help to prevent the loose fur from matting. Good with dogs. It can show itself in two different ways in raccoons. On the flip-side some days your pet raccoon will not want to be near you. LEGAL ;Persons of 16 years and older may obtain a Permit from the State Veterinarian office and provide proper enclosure. There are three main risks that raccoons pose. All raccoons are wild animals, no matter how domesticated, and it should be assumed that anything in your raccoons space may get destroyed. It is not legal to keep a raccoon as a pet in Florida. The experience documentation must show 1000 hours of practical experience in feeding, handling, care, and husbandry of animals in the same biological family and Class of the animal(s) being requested. This is because, in all likelihood, we simply arent meant to discover it yet. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. We have you covered! Raccoons are simplest to train when they are with owners whom theyre affectionate to, and who have taken the time to bond. These are likely signs of ill health. If you dont live in a state that allows housing a raccoon, please do not obtain one. Depriving a pet raccoon of developing their natural instincts and abilities, and then punishing them later for it by forcing them back into the wild is cruel. Food puzzles, games, and raccoon companions are optional but can be highly enriching for your pet. Anyone wishing to possess the above species must obtain two letters of reference regarding their experience as described above. If they must be indoors, they deserve a similarly idyllic space to play and explore daily. 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. Other real-life accounts of pet raccoons explain fond memories of surprisingly well-tempered, well-mannered raccoons. What does it mean if someone is a badger? View pictures. Wally 1 Boca Raton pet raccoons. A certain level of care and appropriate understanding of the animal is required to keep a pet raccoon. If upset with you, they may purposefully leave accidents around your house or where they shouldnt. Expand/Collapse Class I wildlife as a personal pet, Expand/Collapse Class II wildlife as a personal pet, Expand/Collapse Class III wildlife as a personal pet. Is it legal to keep a raccoon as a pet in Ohio? Raccoons are complete troublemakers, so keeping them away from humans, especially children, is a smart idea. Are sugar gliders legal in Florida? Larger animals sometimes are recorded, but Florida raccoons tend to be smaller than those farther north. Your email address will not be published. Many raccoon babies are sweet and cuddly. So they are best kept solo. Canine Distemper is a contagious virus that affects the nervous, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems. Anyone who wishes to possess wildlife as a pet and would like to take their pet in public (any place outside of the home or vets office where members of the public could approach the animal) should apply for a license for exhibition in lieu of a personal pet permit/license. Some Class III species also fall into the game animal category (ducks, deer, etc.). However, raccoons wont become cordial just because they are taken in by humans. The reason raccoons make such high-maintenance pets is because theyre not meant to be pets at all. Ideally, they should be allowed to move freely around your living area and provided with branches, shelves, and other items to climb for exercise. However, the channels owners have other raccoons and many pets that help keep the channel updated with content. Yet, many homes have successfully adopted and raised fulfilled pet raccoons because they put the needs of the raccoon first. Obtain all required and suggested vaccines at the vet, and check for any unusual signs in your new pet. Choose your color and style. In this article, well explore what it really takes to raise a pet raccoon. You are not researched or prepared for the effort it takes to care for a pet raccoon. . 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. Thankfully, President Coolidges wife, Grace, had the idea of keeping the animal as a pet instead. Not only will rabies be incurable and deadly for your pet raccoon, but it can and will spread to your other pets, your loved ones, and yourself. 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. Keeping Raccoons as Pets In California, it is a misdemeanor to own a raccoon. 1 Fort Lauderdale pet raccoons. Your state does not legally allow pet raccoons. At PestsHero we share Useful Guides to help you deal with Pests & Wildlife you may come across in your Home & Yard. Keep your pet raccoon away from anything you dont want it touching. 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. Raccoon, Florida Princeton $450 RACCOON PUPPIES AVAILABLE Glasco Good looking and nice keeping raccoon puppy 11 weeks of age raccoon puppies available, pl.. Raccoon, Florida Tampa Premium Two turtles, tank, lamp, filter (FREE to good home -$300 dollar value) Nelson Tyrone We have two friendly turtles (raised since babies). The personal pet permit/license does not cover taking a pet in public. If they did somehow communicate with us and we did somehow communicate back with them (which is unlikely), chances are there would still be some sort of cultural barriers too great to overcome before any meaningful exchange could take place between our two civilizations. For raccoon removal service, call Animal Wildlife Trappers at 352-267-0546. 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, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Raccoons are omnivores, meaning they eat both meat and plants. They will take the best course of action from there. 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. Youll want to find the proper vet for your raccoon, which can be difficult, but this is essential in caring for your pet raccoon. We are a local, family owned and operated pet store, located in the beautiful Florida panhandle. Their wild nature and high intelligence mixed with their mischief, raccoons can get pretty rowdy, and destroy all your belongings in the process. Characteristics, Housing, Diet, and Other Information. Another concern with pet raccoons is the simple fact that having one as a pet is unusual and rare. Consider all aspects of keeping a pet raccoon before fully committing. Youll need to find out if your state allows them before bringing one into your home. That is typically illegal in most places unless you're a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. No matter their enclosure, ensure your pet raccoon has constant access to food, water, shelter, bedding, and play accessories like toys and climbing structures. The 16 reptiles include Burmese pythons; reticulated pythons; scrub pythons; Northern African pythons; Southern African Pythons; amethystine pythons; green anacondas; Nile monitor lizards; tegus (all species) and green iguanas. You could also face additional charges for any damage caused by the animal or for endangering public health and safety through its presence on your premises. What happens if it scratches or bites someone? 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. 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, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Raccoons will see if they can eat almost anything they see, so its important to limit and monitor their diet. LEGAL; A proper enclosure with noninjurious enrichment devices is required. Raccoons are mammals that arent much different in overall size from cats or small dogs. One other famous raccoon is Tito the Raccoon, who had his own YouTube channel with the owner, Mitchell. 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). Its assuring to know that raccoons can become well-tamed enough to become part of a family, with the right care. Furthermore, youll probably find a problem finding a vet who will treat a raccoon, as most of your standard veterinarian clinics are either unequipped or will refuse to do so. Class II species must be housed on properties which are at least 2.5 acres (see next tab for exceptions). Do not begin housing a feral adult or baby raccoon that you have found in the wild, even if you live in one of the above states. Should You Keep a Panther Chameleon as a Pet? If it is not yet weaned off of bottle feeding, find a bottle with a rounded tip, as raccoons seem to prefer this nipple shape. Finding a veterinarian for your exotic pet can be difficult, as not all vets have experience in raccoons. Your pet in captivity also has concerns for its life, mostly health-related. On a monthly basis, your main essential cost for a raccoon will be its healthy, varied diet. Once youve performed extensive research, discussed the pros and cons of owning raccoons with other raccoon owners, obtained the proper paperwork, and prepared an enriching environment for your new animal, you are ready to adopt a baby raccoon. Read further in this article for an in-depth look at what it takes to raise a raccoon. Also, raccoons are highly individualistic animals. Even if the adoption looks legitimate online, it could be a scam. Key Points: In Florida, as long as you own 2.5 acres of land, you are allowed to keep many types of animals such as bears, large cats, rhinos, crocodiles, chimpanzees, and more. Michigan. As pets, they don't do well in cages or even in small bedrooms. This message is only for complete animal fans as us. The state bans many, many animals as pets as per R12-4-406 Restricted Live Wildlife of the state's administrative code, including but certainly not limited to chipmunks (all squirrels), prairie dogs, deer, foxes, sloths, opossums, bats, nonhuman primates, and anteaters. Importation is illegal. 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. 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. NO SH. Canine Distemper is a contagious virus that affects the nervous, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems. Their color generally is a grizzled salt-and-pepper gray and black with a light belly. %PDF-1.6 % Still, if cared for properly, raccoons can make a wonderful and fulfilling pet. Infected raccoons and bats can expose people . They'll reach their full size between 4 months and 1 year old. Although theyre wild animals, pet raccoons can love cuddling, on their terms. Occurred on April 3, 2023 / Lynn Haven, Florida, USA Info: A pet raccoon smells the snacks left on a bedside table. If youve already checked the laws in your state and have decided to adopt a pet raccoon, then expect to pay an adoption fee. Even assuming this was possible though still leaves open questions about what kind of messages these aliens might send since none have ever been observed before now. Takeaway: We may never know if there really are aliens because they dont want us to know. Report fish kills, wildlife emergencies, sightings, etc. The experience must span at least one calendar year. But they are rather stubborn and selective about when they want to obey. Freeze food in a bucket, then removing the food to make a frozen treat. Raccoons can become relatively tame around people, but they'll never become fully domesticated. You do not have the funds to support the cost of a pet raccoon. Also, as pet raccoons won't be in their natural environment that wears down their nails, they'll likely need regular nail trims. Youll want to know how to feed your baby raccoon. Its important to note that this law applies even if you have a permit from another state or country. Adult raccoons can be quite large, but their overall size and stature can vary greatly. Stuff peanut butter in a hollow bone or a Kong toy. Possession of many wildlife species as a personal pet in Florida requires a permit or license. Arkansas. The only way to test for rabies in the raccoon will be to euthanize it, so keep your raccoon and your loved ones safe. Raccoons absolutely love goofing around, causing mischief, and letting their curious nature get the best of them. Anyone wishing to document their experience hours may use this. Section: Even if there were other intelligent species out there, theyre probably so far away from us that they wouldnt knowor careabout our existence. And those are only a few of the symptoms that make it obvious this is not an illness you want for you or your pet. An outdoor pen should be as large as possible with walls and a ceiling that will contain your animal. If youre committed to acquiring a pet raccoon, its essential to first find a reputable raccoon breeder who breeds domestic raccoons who are meant to become pets. Raccoons are known for their wit and their aptitude for puzzles and problem-solving. Personal pet permits are only issued for animals which are captive bred and are obtained from a legal licensed source. Should You Keep a Coatimundi (Coati) as a Pet? With the proper time, stability, and care in a household raccoons can indeed become pets. LEGAL;A proper permit is required. If you have the space, it's ideal to provide a secure outdoor enclosure for your raccoon. Plus, raccoons have dietary needs and health issues that can be difficult to manage. The following Class II wildlife is exempt from the facility requirements related to acreage, ownership/lease of the property, buffer zones, and perimeter fencing: Any Class II wildlife exempt from meeting the facility requirements still must meet the following: If you have any questions, please contact the Captive Wildlife Office. Raccoons dont like to exert effort when looking for food and are perfectly fine with scrounging scraps. Animals that do not require a permit include geckos, chinchillas and sugar gliders. Any injured, orphaned, or abandoned animals must be brought to a permitted wildlife rehabilitator for rehabilitation. Animals that do not require a permit include geckos, chinchillas and sugar gliders. Raccoons have excellent dexterity with their claws and sport sharp teeth as well. Some people who keep raccoons house them in a large dog crate when they aren't home to watch their pet. For this reason, see if you can offer spaces for each pet. For instance, some states don't allow the importation of raccoons from other states. They like to dunk their food in their water dish prior to consuming it. 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. Ironically, many of the reasons that raccoons can make excellent pets for some people are also why they're not a good fit for others. They do hold water. Your email address will not be published. Animals from the wild (including injured, orphaned, or abandoned native animals) are NEVER eligible to be kept as personal pets in Florida. Pet Raccoon Sniffs Out Snacks Occurred on April 3, 2023 / Lynn Haven, Florida, USA Info: A pet raccoon smells the snacks left on a bedside table. However, they also are generally quick to biteeven their favorite peoplewhen something annoys or scares them. You also might need to spend money on new toys for mental and physical enrichment. Some wildlife does not require a permit to possess as a personal pet in Florida. If they are permitted where you live, the best way to get a pet raccoon is through an established breeder. Is it legal to have a pet raccoon in Florida? That said, if your pet raccoon bites or scratches someone, it can be taken away and tested for rabies. Adult pet raccoons can still keep their friendly behavior, especially if all of their immediate needs are met like proper shelter, food, and water. Raccoons and dogs can transfer canine distemper, a deadly disease, to each other. If you do keep a raccoon as a pet and are caught by the authorities, you can be charged with a misdemeanor and/or felony. The type of permit or license required for personal possession depends on the type of wildlife that is owned. Warm the bottle before feeding, and be prepared to patch holes up caused by your rambunctious raccoon baby. Dont let their smarts fool you these are also some of the most playful creatures! Raccoons are very difficult to care for, as they need regular supervision and ample space. Raccoons are quite adept at breaking through latches and other secured areas if their curiosity gets the best of them. As they grow up though, their adult behavior can be incredibly unpredictable, and not always in a friendly manner! Schedule a FREE inspection TODAY! Maximum penalty of up to six months in jail, a $1,000 fine or both. Raising a Raccoon is a large undertaking, and its vastly different from raising a dog or a cat. Do you need a permit for a racoon in Florida? Florida. Sadly, Tito the Raccoons time on the channel is over since he ran away in 2020. The process will consume much of your time, energy, and money, and it may result in damaged property, too. These animals require a lot of space, upkeep, and supervision. Exotic Pet Ownership Laws By State WATCH: Sharks biting alligators, the most epic lion battles, and MUCH more. Locate a veterinarian who is qualified and ideally has experience with or specializes in care for wildlife animals. Their wild nature will persist, and a pet-owner relationship with a raccoon is best nurtured if understood from this vantage point. From Foster Mom: 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. Nebraska. 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). The regulations and consumption of time and energy are enough to put most people off from going through with the task of owning a raccoon. Delaware. Animals that do not require a permit include geckos, chinchillas and sugar gliders. If you want to keep an exotic animal like this one in Florida but arent sure what the laws are about it, contact us at 813-903-1177 today so we can answer all of your questions about whether or not youre allowed to have one! Class II wildlife can also pose a danger to people. A fence sufficient to deter entry by the public, which shall be a minimum of five (5) feet in height, shall be present around the premises wherein Class II animals are housed or exercised outdoors. Beautiful green-eyed Pauline was doomed to spend her life living under machinery and battling raccoons for We lost our pet cat on the night of 6/12/13 at around 9:30pm. Class II species must be housed on properties which are either owned or leased by the applicant (see next tab for exceptions). Just dont expect them to grow out of their wild behavior. Lets look at what raccoons are like as pets. They should never be kept as pets because they can carry diseases such as rabies, distemper and ringworm (a fungal infection). Mothballs To Repel Raccoons. You can expect to pay between $300 to $500 per raccoon, on average. To house wild raccoons is illegal in almost all states and will result in a large fine, and loss of your illegal pet. Your pet raccoon should also be vaccinated against canine distemper. Where do Raccoons Go During the Day- Do They Come. Florida. It can show itself in two different ways in raccoons. Its also illegal to keep raccoons as pets in Florida or most other stateseven if the raccoon has been obtained from an animal rescue organization or sanctuary. Baylisascaris is a type of roundworm, and it can infect humans and dogs, too. Pets and Animals Brooksville 1 $. 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. These beautiful puppies were rescued from a high kill American Bulldog - Timber The Bull-lab - Large - Adult - Male Raccoons are wild animals and cannot be domesticated. They also have impressive memories. Baby Raccoons! Always keep fresh water ready for your pet raccoon, and two dishes of water may be recommended. If the pet is taken away and not euthanized, then it is released into the wild. Some raccoons will show eye infection, runny nose, and upper respiratory problems. They will attack humans if they feel threatened. However, raccoons are too active to be content in a cage for several hours.