The term ג€_x009c_exotic petג€_x009d_ conjures up images of tiger cubs, pampered foxes, and elegant hedgehogs. In other words, anything other than a dull hamster or guinea pig. Unfortunately, this is not always the case when it comes to owning an exotic pet.
Those who live in a particular state have an important choice to make: Do they want to own an exotic pet? If so, what type are they allowed to keep?
Luckily for all pet owners who want their furry friends as part of the family and not as a possible threat to wildlife, many states now explicitly allow ownership of certain types of pets.
Below we will discuss each one of them with examples where it is legal and illegal and why that might be the case.
What Exotic Pets Are Legal in the United States?
Many types of exotic pets are legal in the United States. From lions to leopards, these majestic creatures can be found living with their owners all across the country.
But not every type of animal is allowed to live inside the United States. For example, you cannot bring non-native animals into the United States, such as snakes or hedgehogs. Some states have strict regulations on what types of animals can be brought in and out of the state for fear of disrupting native wildlife and ecosystems.
What Pets Can You Not Own in the US?
There are some pets that you, as a pet owner, cannot own in the United States. These include non-domesticated species like wolf-dogs and crocodiles.
If you are looking for a new pet and want a fuzzy friend that is both exotic and not allowed in your state, then try adopting or fostering an abandoned dog or cat from your local animal shelter.
What Is the Most Exotic Legal Pet?
The most exotic legal pet is the lemur. These primates are native to Madagascar and can grow up to four feet long. They are not endangered and may be bred in captivity without a permit.
Here are some other animals allowed in many states:
-Fennec fox
-Jackal
-Shrew
-Hedgehog
-Degu (a type of palm squirrel)
-Peregrine falcon
What State Has the Strictest Exotic Pet Laws?
In general, each state has a different set of rules and regulations when it comes to owning an exotic pet. However, some states have more strict laws when it comes to ownership than others.
In California, most types of exotic pets are illegal. This includes reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates and mammals. In New York City, the only allowed exotic pet is a ferret or a snake that is 2 feet or less in length. Itג€™s in Georgia where you will find the most lenient laws for exotic pets as they allow any type of reptile up to 50 pounds in weight as well as any kind of bird from your backyard.
So which states have the most lenient laws? The answer largely depends on what type of animal youג€™re talking about. For example, states like Florida allow all types of reptiles up to 25 pounds with no restrictions on their size and Louisiana allows any type of animal with no restriction on its weight or size whatsoever.
The term ג€_x009c_exotic petג€_x009d_ conjures up images of tiger cubs, pampered foxes, and elegant hedgehogs…