Is it illegal to have a raccoon as a pet?

Common household pets that we are used to seeing in a person’s home are typically dogs, cats, small breed reptiles, maybe a few hamsters here and there, or some goldfish. On the other hand, there are people in this world who like to step out of the box by adopting an exotic pet rather than the stereotypical furry four-legged friend. This option and alternative to having a pet is perfectly fine, depending on the state in which you live. If this is something you have in mind, you will first need to learn the specific laws and regulations surrounding exotic pet ownership in your particular state of interest. Before you or a loved one decide to adopt a raccoon or kit as a pet, be sure to educate yourself on all legal limits related to raccoons and pet ownership.

Regulations for pet raccoons

For many states, the short answer to the question, “Is it illegal to keep a raccoon as a pet?” It is not. “However, in these states where possession of raccoons as exotic pets is allowed, there are generally several prerequisites and requirements one must meet in order to adopt a pet raccoon. Common rules include obtaining specific documentation and licenses, such as legal permission and state approval, as well as payment of annual fees. Additionally, a state’s wildlife possession laws vary based on the intended use of the animal. The state wants to know if a person intends to use animal for commercial or non-commercial use. This means: “Are you going to sell the raccoon, raise the raccoon and sell the kits, or keep it as a pet?” Different permits are required and assigned for the different intended uses of a raccoon. And these Uses must be disclosed and verified before permits are approved.

In many states, but not all …

If a person’s intentions are purely non-commercial, they will need a mammalian possession / breeder permit with fur. There are two classes for this permit: Class A and Class B. For those who wish to keep wildlife protected for non-commercial use, they will need a Class A permit. Those intending to use protected animals for commercial purposes will need a permit from Class B. The fee for a Class A permit is only $ 10 and then $ 25 a year. Again, it is only intended for those who have a raccoon solely as a pet. Class B permits cost $ 20 and $ 25 annually. Class B allows a person to breed and sell protected wildlife. Please note that these are only averages and the fees vary from county to county and state to state.

Another stipulation of the Fur Mammal Possession Laws is that a person must purchase or obtain a pet raccoon only from a licensed breeder. They must present and receive their legal permission before purchasing or adopting a pet raccoon. People cannot catch, catch or take a wild raccoon from the wild and keep it as a pet. They will not be approved for any exotic animal possession permits. It is strictly prohibited. A person must adopt a raccoon from a licensed raccoon breeder; and they must present and receive a legal permit before doing so. If these rules are not followed, you are breaking the law.

What to do if you find a stranded raccoon

If you find an injured or stranded raccoon in your yard, never try to touch or pick it up. Unfortunately, wild animals like raccoons can carry diseases that can be harmful to you and your pets. You never know which raccoon can be aggressive, scared, and potentially attacking. One bite can transmit various contagious diseases and illnesses. If you ever find or have raccoons in your yard, call a professional raccoon removal company right away.

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