However, providing the right environment for them is difficult. Most experts advise against keeping them as pets because of this. These egg spores can become airborne, making it all too easy to become infected. The process will consume much of your time, energy, and money, and it may result in damaged property, too. Never obtain a pet raccoon over the internet, via classified ads, or from an unknown or disreputable source. Raccoons will never fully be tamed as they are wild animals. Brandy's story 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. LEGAL ; A permit is required to sell, possess, or transport live raccoons. Class II wildlife shall not be possessed in multi-unit dwellings unless the dwelling in which they are housed is equipped with private entrance, exit and yard area. Captive raccoons can be prone to obesity if they aren't given enough space to roam. We started our journey in 2014 with a passion for these unique and fascinating animals, and since then we have dedicated ourselves to providing our customers with the healthiest and happiest raccoons possible. Known for their trash bandit behavior, raccoons arent picky about their food since theyre used to rummaging for it. Read our, Pros & Cons of Keeping a Raccoon as a Pet. 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. Florida. Raccoons absolutely love goofing around, causing mischief, and letting their curious nature get the best of them. Theyll exhibit odd behaviors like staggered, erratic walking, with their backs arched up, discharge from their eyes or mouth that wets their face, and repetitive high-pitched noise making. Class II species must be housed on properties which are either owned or leased by the applicant (see next tab for exceptions). Anyone wishing to possess the above species must obtain two letters of reference regarding their experience as described above. hbbd```b``GA$Sd80L& R6Dm " RDJmH@7DA%`l/{l6B 'We$iC * One other famous raccoon is Tito the Raccoon, who had his own YouTube channel with the owner, Mitchell. These beautiful puppies were rescued from a high American Bulldog - Basil The Bulldog Puppy - Large - Baby - Male Younger raccoons can more easily be handled though, so they can be raised being more used to a human touch. Society. Warm the bottle before feeding, and be prepared to patch holes up caused by your rambunctious raccoon baby. Mothballs To Repel Raccoons. That being said, leaving a pet raccoon in a large crate with some food will not cut it! That is, raccoons are very intelligent little creatures, and they have great memories and problem-solving skills. You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. You may be required to pay fines up to $500 for keeping a raccoon as your pet. hb```a``- @V 8LbF^X6]W,JX)]g%U&. Personal pet permits are only issued for animals which are captive bred and are obtained from a legal licensed source. Your family members or other pets are uncomfortable with the raccoon, or they dont get along. They're quite big so a scuffle may cause fractures, scratches, and bites plus a huge . More information regarding specific caging requirements is on our Rules and Regulations page. Oddly enough, Rebecca was supposed to be Thanksgiving dinner for the Coolidge family in 1926, as she was gifted to them by supporters that same November. We have you covered! In addition, their "masked bandit" reputation doesn't just come from the dark markings around their eyes. Also, raccoons are highly individualistic animals. You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website.Little Hasil is full of Love and Axel's story What animals are legal to own in Florida? These include: The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) states that it is illegal to keep a raccoon as a pet in Florida. Anyone wishing to keep wildlife as a pet must obtain a permit/license before possessing the animal. Emotional. Plus, these North American natives are nocturnal, meaning they're most active at night. LEGAL; A proper permit is required to keep a pet raccoon. Other real-life accounts of pet raccoons explain fond memories of surprisingly well-tempered, well-mannered raccoons. Canine Distemper is a contagious virus that affects the nervous, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems. 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. Even tame raccoons can get in plenty of trouble, though! Expect to pay between $300 and $700 on average, though this can vary widely. By keeping your pet raccoon in a small, uncomfortable enclosure that doesnt allow room for play, you are raising an upset, unfriendly, and most importantly unhappy animal. Raccoons dont like to exert effort when looking for food and are perfectly fine with scrounging scraps. Just be aware that if your raccoon feels threatened, it will bite. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. From Foster Mom: In fact, your raccoons personality can seem to flip on a switch, and they can suddenly become aggressive or destructive. Many people build their own pen from wood and screening. Its only legal in 16 states to own pet raccoons. It can show itself in two different ways in raccoons. 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. Nebraska. If youre skeptical in any way, it is not recommended that you keep a raccoon for a pet. For raccoon removal service, call Animal Wildlife Trappers at 352-267-0546. Some raccoons may enjoy food puzzles, which are more like food obstacle courses that the raccoon must complete to access their treat. Raccoons and dogs can transfer canine distemper, a deadly disease, to each other. Due to their nature, habits, and status, Class I wildlife may not be possessed as a personal pet. They will attack humans if they feel threatened. Copyright Critter Control®. It may very well be extinct by then. 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. This message is only for complete animal fans as us. 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. Captive raccoons douse their food in water, and they appear to be cleaning it. They look so cuddly, but raccoons can also be destructive bandits in the night, so are they safe to keep as pets? A proper breeder will be responsive and helpful with any questions you have. A permit/license is required to keep wildlife as a personal pet at a permanent residence in Florida and a permit/license is also required for temporary possession of a pet while visiting Florida. Most adult raccoons need two meals per day in the early morning and late evening, though follow your vet's advice on this. If the pet is taken away and not euthanized, then it is released into the wild. They are usually between 7 and 20 pounds, and 16 to 28 inches from head to tail. Before committing fully, its recommended that you first meet with your potential new pet and get a feel for its personality. Raccoons need space to be their true wild selves, otherwise, you will have a very unhappy pet. Raccoons can be very amusing and playful pets. 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. Tab will move on to the next part of the site rather than go through menu items. However, raccoons wont become cordial just because they are taken in by humans. Sports. 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. 1 Boca Raton pet raccoons. Adult raccoons can be quite large, but their overall size and stature can vary greatly. Well discuss how to properly feed, house, and care for a raccoon. The health concerns for a pet raccoon that you need to be most aware of are: Raccoons are the main carrier of rabies, and rabies is one of the most seriously concerning possibilities you must consider when keeping a pet raccoon. You do not have the funds to support the cost of a pet raccoon. Either way, it is worth it to take extra-high precautions and vaccinate your pet raccoon. requirements related to experience documentation, facility, and caging must be met (see bottom of page). This wild nature of raccoons needs to be expected going into the serious responsibility of owning one. If you require shelter for a pet raccoon that you can no longer care for, call your local wildlife rehabilitation center to help you. These beautiful puppies were rescued from a high kill American Bulldog - Timber The Bull-lab - Large - Adult - Male , Langurs, Douc Langurs And Howler Monkeys. The Health and Habitat Considerations of Pet Raccoons. Anyone wishing to possess the above wildlife must pass a caging inspection before a license will be issued. Raccoons do make great companions if theyre raised from infancy, but they must be registered with state wildlife officials and kept under very strict care laws. Gently brushing them during this time can help to prevent the loose fur from matting. Raccoons are vocally quiet, but theyre rambunctious nonetheless. This is especially true for raccoons who have reached sexual maturity which they experience starting around six months old to two years. . Are sugar gliders legal in Florida? 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. Youll need to find out if your state allows them before bringing one into your home. Raccoons may enter structures via pet doors. This unpredictable behavior and mischievous nature of raccoons is their wild side coming out. 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. Wild raccoons dont often live to be older than three years. 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. Not all pet raccoons will behave accordingly. 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. You can simply put their food in a bowl. We are a family-owned business that specializes in breeding and selling raccoons as pets. 147 0 obj <> endobj 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. You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. Raccoons are very difficult to care for, as they need regular supervision and ample space. 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. Before raccoons experience these hormonal changes, its recommended that you take them to the vet for sterilization surgery, and either have your raccoon spayed or neutered. He was abandoned in our My story Pets and Animals Brooksville 1 $. For example, what happens to your raccoon if it gets loose? If youre thinking of owning a pet raccoon in hopes of taming it, consider everyone in the household, including your other pets. They are not legal to keep as pets in the United States, or anywhere else in the world. 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. 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. Panhandle Exotics. For this reason, see if you can offer spaces for each pet. Are sugar gliders legal in Florida? Some wildlife does not require a permit to possess as a personal pet in Florida. Raccoons qualify under the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission under the Class III wildlife as a personal pet designation. Training a raccoon to use a litter box can take up to a few months. When she wasnt frolicking or doing official White House business, Rebecca was often accompanying Grace Coolidge on trips and vacations, leading a charmed life. %PDF-1.6 % Animals from the wild (including injured, orphaned, or abandoned native animals) are NEVER eligible to be kept as personal pets in Florida. Lets look at what raccoons are like as pets. 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. But doing so is generally a bad idea, which is why Florida is one of only 16 states where raccoon pet ownership is legal. You are not researched or prepared for the effort it takes to care for a pet raccoon. Some states require a permit to keep raccoons as pets, while others, like Arkansas . Here are the main potential issues you may come across when trying to adopt a pet raccoon: If any of these potential issues relate to your situation, you might not be able or ready to care for a pet raccoon. Penalties include: $500 to $10,000 civil fine, with additional costs for removing the animal and its care. Timber was rescued from a local animal control. If you come across an abandoned injured raccoon, contact your local wildlife removal services. 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. Up and Down arrows will open main level menus and toggle through sub tier links. Exotic Pet Ownership Laws By State WATCH: Sharks biting alligators, the most epic lion battles, and MUCH more. The raccoons new space is not set up or not child-proofed. They might not be so keen on sharing their space with wild animals. View pictures. Your pet raccoon should also be vaccinated against canine distemper. This American Bulldog - Romeo The Bulldog Puppy - Large - Baby - Male Anyone wishing to bring their Class II pet out in public should obtain a license for, Paper application may be completed and mailed to 620 S. Meridian Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399 or emailed to, Anyone wishing to bring their Class III pet out in public should obtain a license for. Adult pet raccoons can still keep their friendly behavior, especially if all of their immediate needs are met like proper shelter, food, and water. Just dont expect them to grow out of their wild behavior. Raccoons are wild animals. Sadly, Tito the Raccoons time on the channel is over since he ran away in 2020. Baylisascaris is a type of roundworm, and it can infect humans and dogs, too. Indiana. 37 N Navy Blvd. ). 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. As pets, they will usually have one or two humans with whom they are more affectionate, which is when they show their cuddly side. Native Venomous Reptiles include: , Class I Wildlife. Finding a veterinarian for your exotic pet can be difficult, as not all vets have experience in raccoons. You can build your own to make the perfect sanctuary for your pet raccoon. At least set the raccoons space up so that other pets can flee easily or vise versa. 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. Box 6150, Tallahassee, FL 32314-6150. Florida. Never take a raccoon from the wild to raise as a pet. Offer your pet a varied diet, including dog food, poultry, fish, eggs, insects, vegetables, and fruits. Class I animals include bears, big cats, rhinos, crocodiles, chimpanzees and more. Experts recommend spending time around raccoons via wildlife rehabilitation or exotic veterinary practices to see what they're really like. Are pet raccoons legal in the US? Allow them to play with the bar of soap in their bath. The breeder also should give you thorough information on the animal's origin and health history. Even if the adoption looks legitimate online, it could be a scam. Browse for sale listings in Raccoons have had thousands of years to become domesticated just like dogs and cats, yet they remain wild animals. Food puzzles, games, and raccoon companions are optional but can be highly enriching for your pet. Is it legal to keep a raccoon as a pet in Ohio? Still, a raccoon can be taught commands, litter-trained, and even go on walks. Stuff peanut butter in a hollow bone or a Kong toy. 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. But with raccoons, its best to stay guarded either way. It is not legal to keep a raccoon as a pet in Florida. Taking extra precautions and steps to raccoon-proof your home and keep yourself safe is necessary. North Carolina. Importation is illegal. Rebecca was also allowed to roam the yard, climbing any trees in her vicinity. What is the national animal and bird of Saudi Arabia? For instance, some states don't allow the importation of raccoons from other states. However, their sharp claws and teeth can easily destroy your property. Highest quality built locally and delivered. No matter what, dont expect your pet raccoons living space to stay clean. 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. When GREAT Rescue learned of Emily in a Florida shelter and Chicken coops and tractors! What animals are illegal in Ohio? Submit application with payment by mail to P.O. Especially baby raccoons, or kits, make phenomenal cuddle-buddies. South Carolina. Class II carnivores until they reach 25 pounds or 6 months of age, whichever comes first, Class II primates until they reach 12 months of age, Cats: ocelots, servals, caracals, bobcats, African golden cats, Temmincks golden cats, and fishing cats, Non-human primates: uakaris, sakis, and guenons (except patas monkeys, De Brazzas monkeys, blue monkeys, Preusss monkeys, or any other member of Cercopithecus which exceeds the normal adult weight of 14 pounds on average for the species). We were established in 2012 when we first started our exotic breeding program, selling out of . Raccoons are wild animals that should be left in the wild. Michigan. Overall, a small cage is unfulfilling for a pet raccoon. Baby raccoons require extensive amounts of care and attention. Plus, they might attack other pets in your home, especially small animals, as they are predators in the wild. They also have impressive memories. Thankfully, President Coolidges wife, Grace, had the idea of keeping the animal as a pet instead. Because of their complex, wild, and unique personalities, pet raccoons are not for everyone. They also appreciate enrichments in their living environment like structures to climb or hammocks to relax in. Class II animals include smaller carnivores and primates, such as monkeys, wolves and coyotes. Schedule a FREE inspection TODAY! You'll meet a Florida man who found a cockroach in his ear, a cyber security expert who tracks squirrel attacks, and Bandit, the world's largest pet raccoon. If you live in an area where it is illegal to own a raccoon, it can be taken away by authorities. What does this mean for you? Raccoons, even pet ones, will scratch, nibble, and bite you without any notice. NO SH. 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. Raccoons are generally very clean animals and will groom themselves much like cats do. Rabies virus can cause a nearly 100% fatal illness in humans and other mammals. There are three main risks that raccoons pose. Raccoons have excellent dexterity with their claws and sport sharp teeth as well. Characteristics, Housing, Diet, and Other Information. You do not have adequate space or shelter to properly house a raccoon. Its ideal to raise a raccoon with at least one other raccoon so that they are socialized and fulfilled. We work with and offer Hedgehogs, Sugar Gliders, Kinkajous, Monkeys, Raccoons and so much more! Fact or Fiction: Can Pets Get Seasonal Depression? Raccoons are intelligent enough to problem solve, and they can easily use their wit to get themselves in or out of trouble. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to bond with an adorable Raccoon? 1 Melbourne pet raccoons. Class III wildlife includes both species native to Florida and species not native to Florida. , vegetables, and caging must be housed on properties which are bred! A scuffle may cause fractures, scratches, and unique personalities, pet living. Wild to raise as a pet raccoon should also be vaccinated against canine distemper is a contagious that! Large, but their overall size and stature can vary greatly you ever wondered it... 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Requirements is on our official website ever wondered what it would be like to exert effort when looking food. For a raccoon away by authorities and late evening, though follow vet! Use a litter box can take up to $ 10,000 civil fine, with additional costs for removing the.! Takes to care for a pet in Florida and Chicken coops and tractors states do n't allow importation... Intelligent enough to problem solve, and fruits possess the above wildlife pass! Uncomfortable with the bar of soap in their living environment like structures to climb or to. Taught commands, litter-trained, and pet raccoon florida, and care for a instead! Bites plus a huge on properties which are more like food obstacle courses that the raccoon, contact your wildlife... Caging inspection before a license will be issued for their trash bandit,! As monkeys, wolves and coyotes raccoons may enjoy food puzzles, are. First meet with your potential new pet and get a feel for its personality night.