Is It Legal To Own A Pet Squirrel
Introduction
In the past, squirrels were considered a pest animal and their numbers were controlled.
Most states in the US allow for the keeping of squirrels as pets.
Most states in the US allow for the keeping of squirrels as pets. However, there are a few states that have banned the ownership of pet squirrels. If you live in one of these states, you will not be able to own a pet squirrel unless you move (which may not even be an option). Before buying your new furry friend, make sure that it is legal for you to keep one!
States that do not allow you to own a pet squirrel include; California, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, South Dakota and Washington.
First, you should check with your local animal control office to see if they allow pet squirrels. If they do not, that doesn’t mean that you cannot own a pet squirrel. Although it is illegal to keep them as pets in various states, there is still a chance that your state may allow them as pets. You can do this simply by checking the website of your state’s department of agriculture or animal control office and looking for any laws prohibiting what kind of animals you can own.
If it turns out that your state does not allow the ownership of squirrels, don’t lose hope! There are other ways around this problem:
- Find a friend in another state who owns a pet squirrel and ask them if they would be willing to lend their pet over temporarily
Only one of these states has allowed the ownership of squirrels as pets in the past but changed its laws based on issues caused by domesticated squirrels.
California is the only state that has allowed the ownership of pet squirrels in the past. However, due to issues caused by domesticated squirrels, California changed its law on this subject. This new law states that it is illegal to own a pet squirrel in any capacity within California.
If you want to own a pet squirrel and live in California, you can’t do so legally unless you are certified by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Other states have strict or sometimes confusing regulations so you may need to contact your local animal control office before purchasing a squirrel.
To get started, check with your local authorities before purchasing a squirrel. You may need to obtain a permit or license. You may also need to pay a fee, have the squirrel examined by a vet, and/or complete paperwork for the purchase of your new pet.
Other states have strict or sometimes confusing regulations so you may need to contact your local animal control office before purchasing a squirrel.
You should always do your research and check with your local authorities before purchasing any exotic animal as a pet.
You should always do your research and check with your local authorities before purchasing any exotic animal as a pet. While some states allow certain exotic animals to be kept as pets, other states do not. If you are unsure whether or not owning a squirrel is legal in your area, you can check by contacting the following entities:
- The state department of agriculture
- The county department of agriculture
- The city department of agriculture
- Your local animal control office (if one exists)
- Your local wildlife shelter (if one exists)
- Your local pet store(s) (if applicable).
Conclusion
Squirrels can make great pets, but you should always check with your local authorities to ensure that it is legal for you to do so. There are many different species of squirrels, and some are more suited as pets than others. If you’re considering getting one of these cute creatures as a pet then it is important to know what the laws are in your state before purchasing one.