While homeowners may use exclusion techniques to keep raccoons away from their property, they are persistent and will always stick to it. Homeowners who grow crops sometimes try to scare off raccoons by using lights, dogs, the sound of radios, cloth or plastic banners, plastic windmills or banging pots or lids. Owners also tried activating motion detectors or sprinklers to scare the animals. While the possession of raccoons is prohibited in many states, it is not in others. Some states allow their residents to own raccoons without permission. However, many states require permits for the possession of raccoons. Other types of restrictions often apply to the possession of a raccoon. For example, some states only allow captive raccoons purchased from licensed breeders. Other states might have restrictions on the number of raccoons a person can keep in their home. Make sure you understand the laws in your area before trying to take a raccoon as a pet. If you can only keep a raccoon with a permit, apply for one as soon as possible.
Indiana is an example of a state that allows raccoons, but only with permits. If it turns out that owning a raccoon is legal in your area, be sure to think carefully about the idea before making a decision. Raccoons, unlike dogs and cats, are not domesticated. As they mature in reproduction, they may adopt hormonal patterns of behavior, including territoriality-driven ferocity. Mature raccoons can wreak havoc on the inside of homes. Adult men are generally more problematic and dangerous than women. Always consider safety when making decisions. Think about your safety, the safety of others around you and the well-being of the wild animal. A juvenile raccoon may seem cuddly. Michelle Nati is an associate editor and editor who has covered legal, criminal and government news for PasadenaNow.com and Complex Media. She holds a bachelor`s degree in communications and English from Niagara University.
And is it legal to own something as exotic as a raccoon? It may sound strange to some, but there are many people who want to own a raccoon or already own one. You should learn how much is the right amount to feed them; As raccoons age, you should start limiting their food intake accordingly. Raccoons may seem cuddly and cute at first glance. They even look like cartoon bandits and have a reputation for it, but raccoons are wild animals, not pets. They are notoriously difficult to domesticate and belong to their natural habitat. People believe that this is unethical since wild animals should be outdoors in their natural habitat, it is also known that few veterinarians work with raccoons and they can also transmit all kinds of diseases (raccoon feces can contain roundworms, which is infectious even to humans). This has been done by many, but people who raise their raccoons know how to do it in the most responsible way. They understand their nutritional needs, dangers, disease potential and malevolence. In states where raccoon ownership is legal, those looking for a raccoon should follow additional regulations to own a raccoon. For example, in North Carolina, a veterinarian must approve the animal before it is taken to the state. In Arkansas, a person cannot own more than five at a time. Keep in mind that it is important to check state and local laws before buying an exotic animal.
Raccoons are illegal in most states, not only because of the unethical nature of owning an exotic animal, but also for the welfare of the public. Can I own a raccoon? How can I legally own a raccoon? Raccoons are considered exotic animals and therefore have separate laws regarding their ownership. In 2019, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill banning the donation, sale or manufacture of all fur products in the state. Rep. Laura Friedman drafted the bill that applies to all fur products, including clothing, handbags, shoes and other fashion accessories. Anyone who breaks the law should expect civil penalties. The fur ban comes into effect on January 1, 2023. If you find stray raccoons on your property or worry about an injured raccoon you found nearby, don`t be tempted to keep those raccoons as pets. Nevertheless, raccoons are very intelligent creatures and great problem solvers. They can also be a lot of fun – once your raccoon has been domesticated, you`ll find that it`s very playful. The legality of owning a raccoon depends on exactly where you live. Keeping a raccoon is strictly illegal in many states, including but not limited to New York, Tennessee, Colorado, Illinois, and Kentucky.
If you live in an area where the possession of raccoons is prohibited, you are not allowed to spot a raccoon in the wild, bring it home and care for it. However, if you`re passionate about owning a raccoon, find out if you`re allowed to do so by calling law enforcement in your area. While some allow the possession of a raccoon, the majority of states consider it illegal. Only 14 out of 50 states allow you to keep a raccoon as a pet. These states are: Pet ownership is common in the United States. However, pets vary from dogs to cats, lizards, fish, hamsters and many other animal species. Most of these animals are domesticated and easy to care for without their owners having to worry about harming them or damaging their property. When it comes to unique situations where people take a wild animal from their home to let it live next to them as a pet, things get a little more complicated. It is legal to own a raccoon in the following states: Again, this varies.
Some raccoons are friendly, while others seize every chance of escaping. In addition, you need to realize that raccoons are one of the biggest spreaders of diseases, most often rabies. In addition to these laws, also pay attention to the regulations for raccoon owners. These regulations often answer questions such as, “What happens if my raccoon scratches or bites someone?” Since raccoons are wild animals, they can be euthanized if your raccoon is problematic. Remains of human food should not be easily accessible to wildlife. Pet owners should not leave pet food overnight in a place accessible to predators, including raccoons. Feeding wild animals is also illegal when used as part of an attempt to hunt the animal. If the owner does not have the patience, he can call a pest removal service in his area to remove raccoons. However, once the raccoon family is gone, the owner should practice exclusion techniques. You should never try to kill a raccoon with poison – it`s illegal in California.
Homeowners with a chronic raccoon problem should instead call a professional pest control company in their area. You have a valid permit to capture and remove animals. Raccoons need an outdoor pen where they can play and where they can be confined if they cannot be supervised. The enclosure must have a secure roof. Check state and local laws for additional housing requirements. Failure to obtain proper permits may result in a fine and confiscation of your pet.