How to Legally Own a Raccoon

Owning a pet raccoon can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to make sure that you are doing it legally. Raccoons are wild animals and, in most states, it is illegal to keep them as pets. In some states, however, it is possible to own a raccoon with the proper permits and licenses. This article will provide an overview of the legal requirements for owning a raccoon, as well as tips for keeping your pet raccoon healthy and happy.

Overview of Raccoon Ownership Laws

In most states, it is illegal to keep a raccoon as a pet. This is because raccoons are wild animals and can be dangerous if not handled properly. Additionally, raccoons can carry diseases that can be dangerous to humans and other animals. However, there are some states that allow raccoon ownership with the proper permits and licenses. These states include Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Nebraska, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

In states where raccoon ownership is legal, there are typically several requirements that must be met. For example, in Arkansas, raccoon owners must obtain a permit from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and have a rabies vaccination for their pet raccoon. Additionally, in some states, raccoons must be kept in a secure enclosure and not allowed to roam freely.

Tips for Keeping a Pet Raccoon

Once you have obtained the necessary permits and licenses, there are several tips that can help you keep your pet raccoon healthy and happy.

• • Provide a secure enclosure: Raccoons are curious and active animals, so it is important to provide them with a secure enclosure that is large enough for them to move around and explore. The enclosure should also be escape-proof to prevent the raccoon from getting out and potentially causing harm to itself or others.
  • Provide a variety of enrichment activities: Raccoons are intelligent animals and need mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Provide your pet raccoon with a variety of enrichment activities such as foraging for food, playing with toys, and exploring its environment.

• Provide a balanced diet: Raccoons are omnivores and need a balanced diet of both plant and animal foods. Provide your pet raccoon with a variety of foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, insects, and small mammals.
• Provide regular veterinary care: Raccoons can carry diseases that can be dangerous to humans and other animals, so it is important to provide your pet raccoon with regular veterinary care. This includes regular check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite control.
• Provide socialization: Raccoons are social animals and need regular interaction with humans and other animals. Provide your pet raccoon with regular socialization and playtime to ensure that it is healthy and happy.

Pro Tip

It is important to remember that raccoons are wild animals and can be dangerous if not handled properly. Always use caution when handling your pet raccoon and make sure that it is kept in a secure enclosure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to own a raccoon?

In most states, it is illegal to keep a raccoon as a pet. However, there are some states that allow raccoon ownership with the proper permits and licenses. These states include Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Nebraska, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

What do raccoons need to stay healthy and happy?

Raccoons need a secure enclosure, a variety of enrichment activities, a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and regular socialization to stay healthy and happy.