Raccoons are wild animals; it is illegal to keep them in many states. States that do allow raccoons as pets usually require permits. Laws and permit requirements change, so check your state's regulations before acquiring a raccoon. Owning pet raccoons requires patience and a time commitment. In captivity and with good care, they can live as long as 20 years.
Bans on Raccoon Ownership
Many states do not allow possession of raccoons. Some states in which owning raccoons is forbidden by law include Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland and Massachusetts. This is just a partial list, though.
Individuals who owned a pet raccoon when laws banning their ownership were enacted may be allowed to maintain ownership. For example, in Maryland, individuals who owned a raccoon prior to May 31, 2006, were permitted to keep them if the owners notified local animal control that they owned the animals.
Obtain Required Permits
In other states, including Indiana, Oklahoma, Maine and Pennsylvania, you may own a pet raccoon if you obtain a permit.
For example, in Indiana, you must submit an application to obtain a Class II wild animal possession permit, and your home and raccoon enclosure must pass inspection by a conservation officer. Permits must be renewed every year.
Import Permits
If you are getting your raccoon from a breeder in another state, you may need an import permits in addition to other permits required by your state. The raccoon will also need a health certificate to be imported to another state.
Some states do not allow raccoons to be imported even if they are eligible for keeping as pets. For example, although Pennsylvania and Michigan issue permits for raccoon ownership, neither allows raccoons to be imported into the state.
Local Laws
Local city and county jurisdictions may place additional restrictions on owning a raccoon, or may require additional permits. Also check the regulations of your housing community and your municipality.
Warnings
Failure to obtain the proper permits may result in a fine and having your pet confiscated. Additionally, many veterinarians will not treat raccoons without the necessary permits, as doing so may jeopardize their license to practice.
Raising a Pet Raccoon
Locate a reputable raccoon breeder. Do not adopt a wild raccoon. Most breeders require you to make a deposit on a kit and will send you the raccoon while the animal is young and still bottle feeding. This allows you to bond with your young pet and develop a relationship.
Childproof your home and set up a litter box. Raccoons are playful and inquisitive and can be destructive in their explorations. Provide safe toys, such as stuffed animals and balls. Do not roughhouse with your raccoon, as this can encourage biting and aggressive behavior.
Raccoons need an outdoor enclosure where they can play and where they can be contained when you cannot supervise them. The enclosure should have a secure roof. Check state and local laws for additional enclosure requirements.
Writer Bio
Maureen Malone started writing in 2008. She writes articles for business promotion and informational articles on various websites. Malone has a Bachelor of Science in technical management with an emphasis in biology from DeVry University.
