Exotic animals are fascinating, but owning something just
because it's lovely or intriguing can be unwise. Sometimes, keeping
exotic pets works out, but these animals are often taken out of their
natural habitat, and it ends up hurting them. Depending on the animal
and the area in which you live, you may legally be able to own a bizarre
pet. But should you have them? Well, that's another matter entirely,
left up to you and your conscience.
Animal ownership laws vary
wildly state-to-state, which only serves to complicate an already
complex issue. Certain state laws include specific regulations
permitting or prohibiting a species, but local laws can supersede state
rules and make allowances. And some exotic animals have been
successfully domesticated over the years, which bodes well for anyone
looking to adopt one of these rare pets. In certain instances, exotic
animal owners have even been able to utilize strange pets as service
animals.
For all the aspiring bizarre pet owners out there, learn which of the weirdest pets people can legally own.
Alligator
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Given the responsibilities involved, it's not uncommon for state or local animal welfare agencies to perform random, unannounced checks on the wellbeing of alligators living in private homes.
Capybara
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Capybaras are pack animals, so owning just one is not advised. Also, they're massive animals that require a lot of space and food, making them indoor-averse creatures. Legalities differ from state to state, but both Texas and New York allow residents to own capybaras legally.
Serval
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Servals are a member of the order Carnivora, and state laws vary wildly when it comes to keeping these types of animals. They can't be legally owned in Ohio, but residents in Texas, Tennessee, and several other states are permitted to have them.
Wallaby
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In recent years, wallabies have emerged as therapy and service animals; one therapy wallaby even stole the show at a 2015 sporting event. The laws determining where wallaby ownership is legal are complicated, but New York and Montana allow them. Regardless, contact your local wildlife board before planning to adopt one.
Kinkajou
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Special precautions must be taken to ensure a pet kinkajou has all it needs to live a long and healthy life. Oh, and they do live long lives: up to 40 years in captivity, making them a considerable commitment.
Chimpanzee
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Living with a chimp is a big commitment. These fascinating creatures, native to sub-Saharan Africa, can live well over 50 years and require just as much care and attention as humans. And while chimps aren't typically suited for life as a service animal, some breeds of monkeys are.
Fennec Fox
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They reportedly can't be owned in California, but many states, like New York, consider them "non-dangerous exotic animals" and allow them to be kept as pets.
Bearded Dragon
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They're legal to own in every state and can even be purchased from major retailers.
Sugar Glider
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They can't be legally owned in Pennsylvania and several other states, but a number, such as Delaware and Georgia, allow them.
Chinchilla
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There don't seem to be any legal or regional restrictions when it comes to owning a chinchilla, and many states allow ownership. But again, check with your local fish and wildlife department as some jurisdictions may require a permit. And something else to keep in mind: Chinchillas are incredibly messy.
Emperor Scorpion
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There don't seem to be legal or regional restrictions when it comes to owning this scorpion, but it's important to do one's homework before bringing one of these exotic creatures home. They are scorpions, after all, and while they aren't easily provoked, and their venom is relatively mild, they can still sting.
Hedgehog
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They are legal in several states, including Colorado and Pennsylvania, though specific laws against ownership exist in Maryland, Montana, North Dakota, Florida, Delaware, and Utah.
Ball Python
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Some exceptions are New York, Iowa, and the city of Baltimore, where pythons are banned. Florida prohibits pythons, as well, unless you have a permit issued before 2010.
Madagascar Hissing Cockroach
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It's perfectly legal to own Madagascar hissing cockroaches in the United States, but some states, like Florida, reportedly require special permits. It's also important to keep in mind that their bodies and feces can harbor certain types of mold dangerous to humans.
Vietnamese Pot-Bellied Pig
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Pot-bellied pigs can be aggressive, but they're also known to be gentle, devoted, and affectionate when brought up properly. They are also sometimes utilized as therapy or service animals. It's important to check with your local wildlife agency to make sure your area allows pot-bellied pigs as pets, as states like South Dakota have outlawed "non-domestic pigs."