Is Your Exotic Pet Legal?

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

12 Aug 2006 12:32 PM

Ignorance of the law is no excuse! Before you bring home that exotic pet, find out whether or not it is legal in the area where you live. This can be a complicated search -- different levels of local and state government may be involved in animal regulation. Don't rely on word of mouth; the word you get may be wrong.

1. Use the internet for research, but be sure to talk to a live person at some point. Rules and regulations may change faster than the websites do.
2. Start with your local government -- call city hall or the county seat and ask about any relevant pet laws. Be honest about the type of pet you plan to get! Certain types of snakes may be okay but all snakes may not be welcome in your town. Your local officials may be able to tell you local and state-wide rules.
3. Check with the health department -- exotic pets may fall under their jurisdiction.
4. Check with state government. Your proposed pet may fall under agriculture, wildlife, health, or any number of departments. Your local government may be able to point you in the right direction.
5. Check with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Some exotic species require permits for possession.
6. Don't give up until you get a definite answer!

You may need a special permit or license for your exotic pet, so when you do talk to someone about the local laws, be sure to ask!

If you aren't sure where to start, ask around. Your veterinarian, local animal shelter or rescue, or pet club may be able to help you find out about current laws. Don't just assume that if you see a pet locally it is allowed in your area! Grab that phone book and start calling. Start at the local level, so your local officials can point you in the right direction for calling folks in higher levels of government.

Learn more about Aimee Amodio

Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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