Their bite is sharp and piercing. Eric Farmer from Rockford Illinois on February 18, 2018: On one hand, this sounded somewhat cute but some of the things you listed as negatives really turn me off owning an Otter as a pet. Pet owners must provide a secure and appropriate habitat, as well as proper nutrition and veterinary care. Can you have an Otter as a Pet? - Petaddon If the water is not sufficiently well cleaned, it can lead to the quick death of the otter. This is the otter species Ill be focusing on in this guide, as it is the only one you could, feasibly or otherwise, keep as a pet otter. Because they are cute is not a valid reason for keeping captive otters, even if it is an enjoyable bonus. Valentina z not all exotic pets are ripped away from their habitat some are rescued. If you want to read similar articles to Can You Have an Otter as a Pet?, we recommend you visit our What you need to know category. And I really want to pet or hold hands with an otter. Otters have very sharp teeth and can turn aggressive quickly, if annoyed. Although the ferret needs their own considerations when adopted into a family, they are more suited to the role of domestic pet and are a good recommendation for those who previously considered having an otter as a pet. Enjoy an otter stuffed animal Here are several reasons why: Legal restrictions: Otters are protected by law in many countries and it is illegal to keep them as pets. Otters are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), and their trade is heavily regulated. This requires a fence which is not climbable and has a horizontal ledge at the top. You just made that up and got angry for no reason. Their fast metabolism and evolutionarily hard-wired habit of smearing their spraint in order to mark their territory mean that they poop a lot like, every litter box will need cleaning twice a day. All states have bans on at least some exotic pets, even states that are notorious for having lax pet laws. It could benefit the scientific community as well since little is known about their behaviors. I was headstrong about owning an otter and this article actually dissuaded me people are insane nowadays, would you rather there I have not come across this information then got an otter and regretted? Additionally, otters can have sharp teeth and claws that can cause injury. Otters are being poached from the wild to become pets in Japan and Thailand The Asian small-clawed otter has become a popular pet in Southeast Asia. And then you need to give all your time. Question: Are otters legal in Pennsylvania? However, owning an otter as a pet is illegal in many states, so be sure to check local laws before purchasing. Instead, consider visiting them at a zoo or wildlife sanctuary, where you can observe and appreciate these amazing animals in a safe and responsible manner. Otters are carnivores and primarily eat fish, shellfish, and other aquatic creatures. About. Remember to always treat otters with respect and caution, and support conservation efforts to protect these important animals. You need another animal carer to assist you if you need to leave. Otters have an odor that lingers around them. Are otters good pets? Otters are very territorial and live in family groups. No. You are wrong. I have grown up in the redwoods of California. 2. Even with the best intentions we cant give them enough , enough playtimes, enough nutrition.l enough everything. Domestication is a process that occurs over generations of selective breeding, and it is not possible to fully domesticate a wild animal like an otter. Otter. They do not fall under the same laws because they are not technically marine mammals. [email protected] on January 01, 2018: Can I buy a baby otter. AnimalWised takes a look at the different aspects of domestic otters. It is the most common type trapped and sold as pets. Non-Domesticated Since these animals aren't domesticated, they're not 100% safe to be around humans full-time without proper training. You may be asked to demonstrate this. They will need to be kept in an enclosure that is at least 10' x 8' x 6'. Utterly Outrageous Otters Encounter - Australia Zoo - Steve Irwin The recommended space for a pair of otters is 60 m, roughly the size of an average apartment. If a state doesnt prohibit the possession of "non-domesticated carnivores" or the family Mustelidae (of which Asian small-clawed otters are a member), and it doesnt have an awful list of "non-regulated" species of which all not named on it are considered illegal, then these otters might be legal! They have sharp teeth, powerful prey drives, and they're little bundles of furious energy in motion whenever they are awake. What zoos and aquariums have sea otters? One of the few ways to keep an armadillo as a pet is to be someone who holds an Animal Breeding License, but obtaining one is difficult. Unless you are an expert or biologist or zoologist, you should not own an exotic pet. I want a Asian small clawed otter In Arizona ,mesa. Theyre not for us to put them in cute hats ! Cats Domesticated Themselves, Ancient DNA Shows. I'm leaving school and need to know where to move to own one okay kids you really need to go move to where you can own a bear and just let it live with you in your house just do us all a favor and go get mauled people are really dumb holy shit lmfao. They can cause damage to your home and hurt other animals in your family. Are otters dangerous? It is illegal to keep almost all otters as pets in North America, with one exception. Of course, this depends on whether or not you can find someone willing to sell you one in the first place. In the UK, otters are fully protected under Sections 9 and 11 of Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981[2]. Otters do climb, adding to the complexity of the habitat, so a top is required. If you try to teach an otter right vs. wrong, for example regarding littering outside the litter box, it will likely perform the negative action just in order to elicit a reaction from you. Well I did come come across an instragram account of a pet otter in Japan, and I never saw a outdoor cage in the account. Click to attach a photo related to your comment. Otters are cute, furry water animals that hold hands and groom each other to bond. Otters are very playful and charming and it might seem easy to interact with them or have them as pets. Can I Have an Otter as a Pet? | FluffyStuffie.com Half the houses in my neighborhood can't even take care of their own dogs right. Marvel at the patience that the author must have had. Additionally, otters are considered indicator species, which means that their presence or absence can indicate the health of the surrounding ecosystem. Otters are protected under the law, and it is illegal to keep them as pets or attempt to care for them yourself. Their relatives include wolverines, badgers, and, of course, weasels (stoats). Summary of Husbandry Guidelines for Asian Small-clawed Otters in Captivity. Additionally, otters can carry diseases that are harmful to humans, which is another reason why they are not suitable as pets. So, if you keep an otter as a pet, be ready to clean the potty of your otter several times during the days from different parts of your home. Living with a Pet Otter There are many effects which you should be aware of before getting a pet otter. Yes, I said scream. You'll also need access to plenty of fish. There are owners who have domesticated otters. In the wild they live in families of up to 15, which contrasts with their life in captivity. In the U.S. there is only one otter species that can be kept in the home so to speak - the Asian Short-clawed Otter . Where To Buy Otters In Australia - CelestialPets Prohibited mammals, reptiles and amphibians You are not allowed to keep prohibited animals as a pet in Queensland. Other zoological animals like meerkats, raccoon dogs, slow lorises, and pangolins can't be owned privately for many reasons, at least in the United States. Your email address will not be published. Question: Are otters legal to have as pets in North Carolina? But shipping can be stressful, even if managed by a careful courier, so it is advised to go directly to a zoo, private breeder or animal educator, and enquire in person. In the wild, otters can live up to 10-15 years, while those in captivity may live longer. As a result, these pets are often abandoned. They are hard to potty train, and their fast metabolism means they poop a lot, and often. Members of the Mustelidae family, otters are related to weasels, badgers, honey badgers, martens, minks, polecats and wolverines. Otters like to climb and dig, so your enclosure will need a top and to be dug into the ground. They do not like intruders in their space or near their family and will defend accordingly. My dogs have full access to run outside and play in the backyard but they choose to stay inside on a bed watching tv and eatting treats. 11:06. Can You Have an Otter as a Pet? The Legal Answer Wildlife as pets | Mass.gov Don't even get us started on baby otter pups. This is the way for all animals, but the fundamental problem is that wild animals are better off wild, no matter how well we think we can look after them. Otters are much happier (and quieter) in their natural habitat. There are many exotic pets that people fantasize about owningbaby penguins, panda bears, dragonsbut they are often shocked to hear that some people can and do legally keep exotic pets like fennec foxes, wild cats, and marmosets. Why is is not right to have an OTTER as a PET? Living in captivity is simply not a good life for an otter. If you have adopted one, youll need to have the proper habitat for it. As a pet, otter ownership can be difficult for a variety of reasons, but owning one is not an easy choice. you, an, otter, as, a, pet, unit, australia, s, can, have, in. "Oh honey~~~ you shouldn't have! For enrichment, otters will need walkways, natural shrubbery, nesting boxes and lots of options for safe digging and foraging. - Once you have that set, click "Add to Cart". For example, most states have bans on big cats, primates, and bears, but in states that allow more surprising species as pets, the majority of counties and towns don't allow it. What is a good pet? Can You Have An Otter As A Pet In Australia Watch HD Videos. Is it illegal to have an otter as a pet in every country? They are all semiaquatic, aquatic or marine mammals, and subsist on diets mainly based on fish and invertebrates, such as mollusks. Yes, there are some health risks associated with otters. Question: Where do you go to adopt an otter? Nevada: In Nevada, owning an otter is legal as long as you have a permit from the Nevada Department of Wildlife. Can otters be released into the wild after being in captivity? Some of the different types of otter species include: The North American river otter is the only river otter found in north of Mexico. Otters can give dogs Salmonella, just like humans. Yes, some otter species are endangered. Using food dispensing devices available for dogs and cats that must be manipulated to dispense treats. Veterinarians are well trained in looking after a variety of animals, but most will not have the specific training required to look after the health and well-being of an otter. While otters are popularized by their appearance in movies and TV shows, many people are unaware that these animals can actually be kept as pets. This is usually at the behest of a larger authority, often governmental. 70-80% can be meat-based, and can include chicks, chicken, venison, rabbit, etc. Not only will we let you know if you can have an otter as a pet, we'll look into the different reasons why this might not be the best idea for both legal and practical reasons. Keeping an otter as a pet has become fashionable in some countries for some time. Retrieved from, Smith, C. (2017). Scent and Body Odour The otters emit an odour and that is the reason they are kept outdoors. Squirrels as Pets - Is It OK to Have a Pet Squirrel? It is illegal to own most otter species as pets. Additionally, swimming with otters can be harmful to the animals, as it can disrupt their natural behaviors and expose them to human diseases. Customer reviews and photos may be available to help you make the right purchase decision! iPhone 11 Otter + Pop Symmetry Series Case - amazon.com Pets banned in Alabama - al.com However, these permits are usually only granted to licensed wildlife rehabilitators, educators, or researchers. They also mark their territory by smearing their scent; which is known as sprinting. It is the smallest otter species in the world, reaching a length of just 3 ft, or 90cm. Dont get an otter just because its adorable , you probably will not be able to care for her . These animals include bears, primates, big cats, canids, venomous and large reptiles (crocodilians, large constrictor snakes, and large monitor lizards). Hence the name. Even many experienced pet owners would not try to take on an otter. Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on December 16, 2018: Can you have an Asian small clawed otter as a pet in the state of Georgia. August 20, 2021. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. You can give them a complete cat food as the base, but make sure that over half of their diet is meat-based. Otters are very playful creatures. Where can you shake hands with an otter? These big furry dogs were bred to hunt otters, which were considered as pests back in the day. Are there any research programs to help repopulate endangered species of otters such as the Congo clawless otter which so little is known about. most native mammals are nocturnal and some, such as possums and gliders, can only be kept . As such, captive otters need ample space to move around, including a deep enough freshwater source in which to swim, bathe, and socialize. We are living in a world full of ignorant, entitled, beings who have little/no respect for anyone or anything. However, Asian small-clawed otters, despite being the otter species best suited for captivity, are not commonly kept, even in the exotic pet-keeping community. It is illegal to keep almost all otters as pets in North America, with one exception. Have a secondary pond/enclosure that I keep stocked with fish,frogs, and other native species that I would let my baby out in daily and go swimming with it. They love water so it is best if you have a body of water nearby for them to frolic in. If you do not live in a warm climate, supplementary heat is necessary for land. Otters mostly eat fish and planktons, but they also feed on the ground with small birds, snails, frogs, or other amphibians. These toys are excellent for species that hunt and forge. Participants must be able to squat/kneel down and stand up quickly and without assistance. Retrieved from. -They are relatively low-maintenance, compared to other animals. How Old Do You Have to Be to Work at Petco? It is important to work with trained professionals and follow guidelines for releasing otters back into the wild. The short answer is yes, but it comes with many caveats or catches. I though a pair of otters would love to have me as their human (based on youtube videos). No, and you don't want one. Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. Toys are expensive. Do OTTERS make good PETS? - YouTube Fun fact: Otters are one of the lesser-known tool users of the animal kingdom. Yeah I know but some people already own them and they couldnt put them in the wild because they wouldnt survive. If they are constantly wet, they can develop health conditions.. Objects, such as hollowed-out lots, well-placed shrubs and trees, and items of cage furniture. Depending on the size, the cage should provide at least 30% water. Rage at the cruelty of man. Supplement their diet with vegetables, soft-boiled eggs, and insects. I understand how people strongly oppose having otters as pets. No matter how much you fantasize about them, you must accept the fact that they are not house pets. What Does It Cost to Adopt a Pygmy Marmoset (or Finger, How To Setup a Red-eared Slider Turtle Tank, How Long Do Red-eared Slider Turtles Live? This breed was thriving in the 12th Century and was used to hunt otters. Keeping an otter as a solitary pet can make them very sad. I cannot recommend any otter species as a personal "pet," although a few have maintained a strong bond with their handler their entire life. Are otters legal pets? Dogs can infect otters with canine distemper and rabies. It takes a tremendous amount of time, effort, patience, and experience to house them, provide them with enrichment, and keep them safe and secure. Fortunately, many governments and jurisdictions have created contingencies to try to protect these animals. How To Care for A Pet Otter? Owning native otters is illegal in many countries including the UK, Japan, and the U.S. However, even if you could buy an otter, the cost of owning one would be significant. People's Trust for Endangered Species. For example, in Nevada, lions and elephants are actually legal to own, but fennec foxes (which weigh 3 lbs) are not. They tend to attack when they are intimidated. You can keep these animals as personal pets, but you cannot sell, barter, or exchange them. Do pet otters smell? The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2015: e.T12302A21936349. There are many otters kept in captivity, but these are in animal welfare centers, zoos or conservation areas. In the wild, they feed on mostly invertebrates and occasionally frogs. All pets have at least some bans on exotic pets, even if they sometimes don't make complete sense. They are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Finger Monkey Lifespans: How Long Do Pygmy Marmosets Live as Pets? Keeping exotic animals as pets in Queensland They also need have enough elements such as trees and branches to scavenge. However, this is highly unethical and illegal, so be cautious and thoroughly research the seller and the legality of owning an otter as a pet before making a purchase. Answer: Probably not. some native mammals, particularly wallabies and kangaroos, are prone to diseases caused by the stress of contact with humans, domestic pets (cats and dogs) and noise. However, they will probably warn you against going down the route of otter husbandry, for the reasons I have outlined in this guide. Keeping an otter as a pet would be unfair to the animal and potentially dangerous for you. Otters are wild animals and can be unpredictable, especially if they feel threatened or uncomfortable. So why don't you see more otters playing in the park on a Sunday afternoon? 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Such illegal trafficking is detrimental to wild populations of animals worldwide. I know a lady who owns an otter , she displays her on insta with her other exotic pets that rescued and even doing so much for her baby she still sees signs of distress! The upfront cost of purchasing an Asian small-clawed otter is approximately $4,000 unaffordable for most individuals. You should include fish. Can you have a pet sea otter? When you see horror movies about canibbals or something you feel freaked out do you eat meat how do you think the cows,pigs and lambs feel and so on. Licences to possess, sell or capture otters European protected species: apply for a licence to possess them (A37 and LR37) 8 March 2022 Form Licence to possess plants and animals for scientific. And pets are different again to 'keeping otters'. Yes, in some cases, you can adopt an otter. Can Otters Be Pets? - wildlifefaq.com Dont take this as an endorsement of keeping them, but in purely legal terms, you may be able to own an otter in the following states: In the majority of the US, it is completely illegal to keep an otter as a pet. Sadly, due to the difficulties that come with owning an otter, many are abandoned or discarded to rescue groups., National Geographic: Wild otters are the latest exotic pet trend., PetHelpful: A Guide to Legally Owning and Caring for a Pet Otter., Sea Otter Savvy: Dangerous Liaisons: Interactions Between Pets and Sea Otters., The Furry Companion: FAQs for Aspiring Pet Otter Owners., WORLD ANIMAL PROTECTION: Why You Shouldnt Share That Cute Pet Otter Video.. In what states is it legal to own an otter? https://www.gov.uk/guidance/otters-protection-surveys-and-licences#how-otters-are-protected, http://www.otterspecialistgroup.org/Library/TaskForces/OCT/OCT_ASO_Husbandry_Guidelines_Summary.pdf, https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2018/07/17/national/otters-smuggled-sale-japan-demand-pets-grows/#.XeDfjZNKiUl, https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/12302/21936349, https://ptes.org/get-informed/facts-figures/otter/. It's scary to think of what it'll be like in just 5-10 more years. From a legal standpoint, owning an otter can be trickier than a skunk, but it is possible.