Cool Gadgets That Could Save Your Home...

Let's face it, raccoons can reek haveck on your home. They will dig into your drywall, tear at carpet, sneak into cabinets and clear them of their contents, they will chew wires and they will climb everything in site. So here are some things that could save your home and sanity.

Child and Pet Proof...

1. Safety 1st Tot Lok Starter Set - Safety 1st - Babies "R" Us
     These can be used for all sorts of coon proofing.

2. Babies R Us Slide Locks - 2-Pack - Babies R Us - Babies "R" Us
     These work great for cabinets with knobs. I don't recommend the little hook ones, because the raccoon      can still get it's paws in the little crack.

3. Kidco Auto Toilet Lock - Kidco - Babies "R" Us
     It's better to try to keep them out of the toilet from the get-go. Trust me, they will fill your toilet up!

4. Sofa Scram
     This little beauty can be used not only of couches, but place it in front of areas of the home that you don't want your coon in. It's great for hallways, and in front of doors that are off limits.

5. Contech Scat Mat Automatic Indoor Cat Training Mat
     This is the same concept as the Sofa Scram, it just is smaller. Works well for counters, table tops, or even on top of high book shelves that your little guy may have been eyeballing.

6. Ssscat Automated Cat Deterrent
     These little wonders could save your television and computer wires. Position them at hotspots where your coon is particularly drawn to mischief.

7. PetSafe Cat Flap
     This may seem strange on this list, but if you're someone who keeps door shut in your house, even though it's a room where your coon is welcome, then installing these in your doors could save them from scratches and carpet damage at the base.

8. Petsafe Drinkwell Hy-drate Pet H20 Filtration System For Cats
     This may help save you a huge water bill, and stop your coon from teaching his/herself to use the sink.

9. Cat Furniture Protector
     If your coon likes to run up the side of your couch, and your afraid of it getting ratty, then try one of these beauties!


Distractions, Distractions, Distractions...

1. The Refined Feline Cat Clouds Cat Shelf
     Your climber will love being able to scale the walls without being yelled at. Comes in a variety of colors so it wont clash with your home decor.

2. Molly and Friends Five Tiered Cat Tree
     Any type of cat tree will do, big to small, your coon will love these!

3. Premier Busy Buddy Treat Holding Buscuit Bouncer
     This will keep them distracted for a little. (Key here is, a "little" while.)

These were just a few neat things that I came across and I thought they were great. There are plenty of enriching ways to keep your little buddy busy, but let's face it, you can get pretty pooped out. So maybe these will help you catch a breath! 

   

So you get an idea of the girl behind the blog...

My Past With Raccoons...

Today I was going through some old pictures and came across these ones of "Teddy", the raccoon I helped raise and rehabilitate. I got him in early spring of 2006, when his little eyes were still closed. A neighbor's son had shot Teddy's mother while she was moving him to a new nest. The neighbor didn't know what to do with Teddy, so she ask if I would take him. I was thrilled to have the opportunity. I kept him for about two months, and then contacted a rehabber, so that Teddy would be able to go back to the wild. I had no way to legally keep him, otherwise I would have. It was hard to let him go, but very rewarding to know that I had given him a fighting chance! He was released by the rehabber, with some other orphans she was raising. I got to play with them as well. Very great experience!!

This is Teddy just a few days after I brought him home. He was so tiny and precious! It took a while to get him eating, since he was so traumatized. 

Here is Teddy playing with the dog. He was probably around 10 weeks old here. Take a look at those claws!


Teddy taking a defensive stance. Practicing being an wild coon!!!


Teddy getting his tummy scratched. He was quite the little cuddle bug!

And the last picture I took of him. What a beautiful little raccoon!

Picking A Breeder That's Right For You

A lot of people are against breeders, not all breeders are monsters who abuse animals, and overpopulate the earth. In most states it is completely illegal to keep a wild raccoon kit, even if it is orphaned. This means that in order to keep a raccoon as a pet, you must purchase from a state and usda licensed breeder. Not all breeders are bad, but not all are good, so here are some things to help you decide who is best for you.

Once you have given clear thought to owning a raccoon, and decide that it is a journey you are confident to take, you now need to figure out where your newest family member is coming from. When I was getting started, I just went ahead and googled, "Raccoon Breeders in Pa." As you can imagine, there really aren't many breeders to choose from, especially since you must buy from within the state here. A few options did come up though, so I went ahead and checked out their sites. You can also check with your states game commission, or wild life department, or in states near yours, and they may be able to provide you with some names of reputable breeders.

When scanning over sites, here are some things to look for...

1. Do they clearly state that they are licensed to breed wildlife?


2. Do they provide all contact information; address, phone, email, breeder's name?


3. Do they require a security deposit? Is it non-refundable?


4. Do they offer a health guarantee, money back guarantee, or replacement of the kit if if ended up with something wrong?


5. Has the site been recently updated? (Like does it mention a list of prices for 2012, or are all the dates from years ago?)


I began my  search in the fall of 2011. A few of the sites I came across were well put together, but one I came across, made it very clear that they did not want to be contacted until after the new year, and would not be returning any phone calls or emails, or excepting deposits until then. This was a red flag to me as bring home a wild pet is a huge decision and as a breeder, they should be willing to answer any questions someone may have. Another red flag was that one of the breeders had a link to their taxidermy site. I understand that someone may be a hunter, and still love animals, but I feel it's in bad taste to mix the two from a business stand point. So just be very aware of what is on the breeders site and read everything there. Don't just look at all the cute raccoon pictures, look at what other animals are available as well.

The next step I would recommend taking is to search the breeders name online. See what you can turn up.  Usually a disgruntled customer is going to complain, and you can bet they will be willing to spread their annoyance online. If they are stating that they didn't get their money back, when they changed their mind on buying an exotic pet, then that's one thing, but be cautious if they are claiming that they bought a pet raccoon, only to have it die a week later. Also search their name on their local new station's site. This could turn up information if they were fined for not caring properly for their animals, or if they were selling illegally. If you search and turn up nothing, then the breeder may be a decent one.

Now that you've gone every route you can online, it's time to call the breeder, and speak directly to them. The breeder we decided to go with answered our call immediatly. It was comforting that he was available to talk, and was willing to answer all questions we had. He gave a very realistic answers, and didn't try to push us into a purchase. He made it very clear that he wanted his animals to go to good homes.

 When speaking to the breeder here are some things to pay attention to...

1. Does the breeder answer your call, or are they quick to return your call?


2. Does the breeder seem distracted and rushing to get off the phone, or are they friendly and engaging in conversation?


3. Does the breeder seem to be pushing you to make a quick decision and to sell you on the idea of buying a raccoon, or are they guiding you to do your research, and informing you that it is a life changing decision?


4. Are they willing to let you come to their facility or home to make your deposit, or are they requiring you to do it through mail or paypal?


5. Is there facility open to the public, or are they a closed business?


6. Are they willing to let give you references or provide you with their veterinarian's number?


Some of these questions may sound strange, but they are important. If the person isn't very interested in your business, or in speaking to you, then they aren't likely to provide you with good customer service, or post purchase trouble shooting. You want someone you can call, when trouble arrises down the road, and who can offer you experienced advise. Not someone who is annoyed by your calls, or worse, ignores them all together. You also want a breeder who cares for their raccoons, and isn't rushing you into a decision, but rather tries to help you figure out how a raccoon would fit into your lifestyle. If they are concerned that their coons are going to good homes, then they are probably raising healthy, well handled raccoons at their facility.

The reason to be sure you are able to go to their facility or home, and not seeking payment through mail or online, is so you know it's not a fraud. If you have not inquired through your state, then you don't know for sure if it's a real breeding facility or not. People can post whatever they want online, and can find pictures of raccoons anywhere. Don't expect them to let you do a walk through of their facility, because most have to be closed to the public unless they purchase specific menagerie licenses from the state. Do try to be aware of your surroundings though, as their home, or facility can tell you a lot about the quality of animal you are purchasing as well. If the home or office is dirty, and cluttered, and smells strong of fecal matter, then the caging for the raccoons probably isn't much better.
It is a good thing if the facility where the breeding parents are kept is closed to the public, as this means just anyone cannot have contact with them or the babies.

Last thing, is if they will provide you with references and/ or their veterinarian's number. This way you can call up the vet and be sure that the animals are being treated and that the breeder has nothing to hide.  You can also speak to references, if they are someone who bought a raccoon from the breeder, and ask how their raccoon is thriving now.

These are just some things, I thought important, to choosing a breeder where you could get a healthy kit. Take what you want, and leave what you want, but just be sure to do your research before getting yourself involved financially, or you may be out lots of money, and no raccoon in the end!

USA State Laws (Summarized) ...

These are the laws that my research on the matter turned up. If you know of a law that may have changed, please feel free to comment, as other readers may find the information very useful. As far as I know these are pretty accurate. I have also included the departments to contact for each state and their contact information, as well as websites that may provide a wealth of information. Contacting the department in your own state is the best way to obtain recent and accurate laws on owning a raccoon where you live.

Alabama- No person may posses, buy, offer for sale, or import a raccoon into the state.

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
64 N Union St.
Montgomery, AL 36104
(205) 242-3467

State Web Site: http://www.alabama.gov.
Division of Fish & Game  /  Department of Conservation & Natural Resources           (334) 243-3465

USDA  (334) 240-7255        Animal Care  (334) 396-9808   http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/al.html

Alaska- No person may posses, buy, offer for sale, or import a raccoon into the state. Raccoons are banned as pets in this state.

Department of Fish and Game
P.O. Box 25526
Juneau, AK 99802
(907) 465-6197

State Web Site: http://www.state.ak.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.state.ak.us/adfg/adfghome.htm

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ak.html

Arizona- People who posses restricted wildlife must posses obtain a wildlife holding permit to lawfully own wildlife within the state. The department will issue one of these permits if you are moving into the state, and already legally own a wild animal. People already living within the state are not allowed to posses restricted live wildlife in a private setting unless they qualify for a permit. The laws didn't directly reference raccoons, so I would speak directly to a Game and Fish Department, to find out for sure.

Game & Fish Department
7200 E University
Mesa, AZ 85207
(480) 981-9400

Department Web Site: http://www.gf.state.az.us/
USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/az.html

Arkansas- It is illegal to posses 6 or more raccoons in this state. That was the only reference to owning raccoons that I came across.

Game & Fish Commission
Two Natural Resources Dr.
Little Rock, AR 72205
(501) 219-4141

State Web Site: http://www.state.ar.us/
Commission Web Site: http://www.agfc.com/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ar.html

California- It is illegal to posses wild animals, unless you already owned them prior to January 1992. Raccoons are not directly referenced here, so I would speak directly to the Department of Fish and Game.

Department of Fish and Game
License and Revenue Branch
3211 S Street
Sacramento, CA 95816
(916) 227-1305

State Web Site: http://www.state.ca.us/
Department Web Site: http://www..dfg.ca.gov

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ca.html

Colorado- It is illegal to possess most exotic wildlife, unless for commercial perposes. Though you may posses up to 6 live native reptiles, or unregulated wildlife. Raccoons were not directly referenced, so I would speak directly to the Division of Wildlife.

Division of Wildlife
6060 Broadway
Denver, CO 80216
(303) 297-1192

State Web Site: http://www.state.co.us/
Department Web Site: http://wildlife.dfc.ca.gov/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/co.html

Connecticut- It is illegal to possess potentially dangerous wildlife. Raccoons are not directly referenced, so I would check with the Department of Environmental Protection. 

Department of Environmental Protection
79 Elm Street
Hartford, CT 06106
(203) 566-4683

State Web Site: http://www.state.ct.us/
Department Web Site: http://dep.state.ct.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ct.html

Delaware- All persons must obtain a permit before they can legally own a wild mammal privately.

Department of Agriculture
2320 South DuPont Highway
Dover, DE 19901
(302) 739-4811

State Web Site: http://www.delaware.gov/
Department Web Site: http://www.state.de.us/deptagri/index.htm

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/de.html

Florida- All wildlife not defined as Class I or Class II, must obtain a non cost permit. I could not find raccoon directly listed under Class I or Class II, so I assume that they would qualify for the non cost permit. I would check directly with the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to be sure though.

Game and Fresh Water Fish Department
620 South Meridian St.
Tallahassee, Fl 32399
(904) 488-1960

State Web Site: http://www.state.fl.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.floridaconservation.org/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/fl.html

Georgia- It is illegal to possess inherently dangerous wildlife as "pets". Raccoons are not directly referenced in this, so I would check with a Game Commission member. 

Department of Natural Resources
2109 US Highway 278
SE Social Circle, GA 30025
(770) 761-3044

State Web Site: http://www.state.ga.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.ganet.org/dnr/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ga.html

Hawaii- It is illegal to introduce exotic wildlife for private use in this state.

Department of Agriculture
701 Iialo St.
Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 586-0844

State Web Site: http://www.state.hi.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.hawaiiag.org/hdoa/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/hi.html

Idaho- All species of mammal that are found in the wild and are not of special concern may be kept as long as the owner has proof that the animal was legally obtained. Before bringing an animal into the state, you must first obtain a importation permit.

Department of Agriculture
P.O. Box 7249
Boise, ID 83707
(208) 332-8540

State Web Site: http://www.state.id.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.agri.state.id.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/id.html\

Illinois- There are no state requirements for someone possessing exotic wildlife defined as "dangerous animals".

Department of Natural Resources
524 South Second St.
Springfield, IL 62701
(217) 785-8774

State Web Site: http://www.state.il.us/
Department Web Site: http://dnr.state.il.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/il.html

Indiana- A wild animal possession permit is required for Class II animals, which lists the raccoon.

Division of Fish and Wildlife
402 W Washington St., Rm. W273
Indianapolis, IN 46204
(317) 232-4080

State Web Site: http://www.state.in.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.ai.org/dnr/fishwild/index2.htm

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/in.html

Iowa- There are no laws that directly reference a raccoon, so check directly with the state Game Commission.

Department of Natural Resources
502 E. 9th Street
Wallace State Office Building
Des Moines, IA 50319
(208) 332-8540

State Web Site: http://www.iowa.gov/
Department Web Site: http://wwww.state.ia.us/government/ dnr/index.html

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ia.html

Kansas-  Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with the Department of Wildlife and Parks.

Department of Wildlife and Parks
512 SE 25th Ave
Pratt, KS 67124
(620) 672-5911

State Web Site: http://www.kdwp.state.ks.us/law/Gregs.htm

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ks.html

Kentucky- Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.

Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
#1 Game Farm Road
Frankfort, KY 40601
(502) 564-3400

Department Web Site: http://fw.ky.gov/navigation.asp?cid=200

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ky.html

Louisiana- Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
P.O. Box 98000
Baton Rouge, LA 70898
(225) 765-2800

Department Web Site: http://www.wlf.state.la.us/apps/netgear/page1.asp

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/la.html

Maine- A person may posses a wild animal after obtaining a permit.

Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife
284 State Street, Station #41
Augusta, ME 04333
(207) 289-2066

State Web Site: http://www.state.me.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.state.me.us/ifw/index.html

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/me.html

Maryland- No person may possess or breed a raccoon as a "pet", unless the person owned it prior to May 31, 2006, and had provided written notification to local animal control authority on, or prior to, August 1, 2006, of the said possession.

Department of Natural Resources
Tawes State Office Building
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 260-8545

Department Web Site: http://www.dnr.state.me.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/md.html

Massachusetts- No person may possess as a "pet" a wild mammal, unless the animal was owned prior to June 30, 1995. A wild mammal is defined as any undomesticated animal that is not the product of hybridization with a domestic form and not otherwise contained in the exemption list.

Department of Fish and Wildlife
251 Causeway St.
Boston, MA 02114
(617) 727-3151

State Web Site: http://www.state.ma.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.state.ma.us/dfwele/dfw/dfwpets.htm

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ma.html

Michigan- A prior entry permit must be obtained from the director for all wild and exotic animal species not listed (Raccoons were not listed),  or regulated by the fish and wildlife service of the United States Department of Interior or the Department of Natural Resources within the state. Before an exotic animal may enter this state,  The Department of Natural Resources may require the owner to have the animal examined by an accredited veterinarian to determine the animal's health, proper housing, husbandry and confinement standards are being met.

Department of Natural Resources
P.O. Box 30444
Lansing, MI 48909
(517) 373-9329

State Web Site: http://www.michigan.gov/
Department Web Site: http://www.michigandnr.com

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/mi.html

Minnesota- Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with the Department of Natural Resources.

Department of Natural Resources
P.O. Box 20
St. Paul, MN 55155
(651) 296-0706

State Web Site: http://www.state.mn.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/mn.html

Mississippi- Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.

Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks
P.O. Box 451
Jackson, MS 39205
(601) 362-9212

State Web Site: http://www.state.ms.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.mdwfp.com/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ms.html

Missouri- Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with the Department of Conservation.

Department of Conservation
P.O. Box 180
Jefferson, MO 65102
(573) 751-4115

State Web Site: http://www.state.mo.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.conservation.state.mo.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/mo.html

Montana- All animals entering the state must be accompanied by a one-time entry permit and official health certificate. For more in depth details on owning a raccoon, I would check directly with Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Fish, Wildlife and Parks
P.O. Box 200701
Helena, MT 59620
(406) 444-4039

State Web Site: http://www.discoveringmontana.com/default.asp
Department Web Site: http://www.fwp.state.mt.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/mt.html

Nebraska- Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with the state Game and Parks Commission.

Game and Parks Commission
P.O. Box 30370
Lincoln, NE 68503
(402) 471-0641

State Web Site: http://www.state.ne.us/
Department Web Site: http://164.119.102.21/homepage.html

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ne.html

Nevada- Raccoons are prohibited from private ownership, except if they were in possession prior to February 28, 1994.

Department of Wildlife
P.O. Box 10678
Reno, NV 89520
(775) 688-1500

State Web Site: http://silver.state.nv.us/main.htm
Department Web Site: http://nevadadivisionofwildlife.org/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/nv.html

New Hampshire- Raccoons may only be possessed under category 5, which is an exhibitor permitee.

New Hampshire Fish and Game Department 
2 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH
03301
(603) 271-3421

Department Web Site: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/nh.html

New Jersey- Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with the Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife.

Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife
P.O. Box 430
Trenton, NJ 08625
(609) 292-959

State Web Site: http://www.state.nj.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.state.nh.us/dep/fgw/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/nj.html

New Mexico- Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with the state Department of Game and Fish.

Department of Game and Fish
P.O. Box 25112
Santa Fe, NM 87504
(505) 827-7897

State Web Site: http://www.state.nm.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.gmfsh.state.nm.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/nm.html

New York- Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with the State Department of Environmental Conservation.

State Department of Environmental Conservation
50 Wolf Road
Albany, NY 12233
(518) 457-0689

State Web Site: http://www.state.ny.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.dec.state.ny.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ny.html

North Carolina- A county or city may ordinance regulate, restrict, or prohibit the ownership of a dangerous animal. If importing a raccoon, you must obtain a entry permit from the state Veterinarian.

Wildlife Resources Commission
1724 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699
(919) 661-4872

State Web Site: http://www.ncgov.com/
Department Web Site: http://www.ncwildlife.org/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/nc.html

North Dakota- I believe that Raccoons fall under Category 5 of non-traditional livestock, which may be possessed after obtaining an import permit, a non-traditional livestock license, and/or a certificate from a veterinarian. The may require further special license which would have further requirements, established by the North Dakota Board of Animal Health. Check directly with the North Dakota Board of Animal Health.

Board of Animal Health
Department of Agriculture
600 E Boulevard Ave. Dept 602
Bismarck, ND 58505
(701) 328-2654

State Web Site: http://discovernd.com/
Department Web Site: http://www.agdepartment.com/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/nd.html

Ohio-  People who own a non-domestic animal within the state do not need a permit. People importing a non-domestic animal into the state must obtain a entry permit, health certificate stating that the animal is free of infectious diseases, and a certificate of veterinarian inspection.

Department of Natural Resources
1840 Belcher Drive
Columbus, OH 43224
(614) 265-6300

State Web Site: http://www.state.oh.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/oh.html

Oklahoma-  No one may possess a wildlife unless first obtaining a permit.

Department of Wildlife Conservation
P.O. Box 53465
Oklahoma City, OK 73152
(405) 521-3851

State Web Site: http://www.state.ok.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.wildlifedepartment.com/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ok.html

Oregon- Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with the State Department of Agriculture.

Department of Fish and Wildlife
P.O. Box 59
Portland, OR 97207 

(503) 872-5260

State Web Site: http://www.state.or.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/or.html

Pennsylvania- Raccoons may be legally owned as a "pet" if purchased from a USDA and state Game Commission licensed wildlife propagator. The animal must be purchased within the state and may not be imported. The receipt must be kept and becomes the permit of ownership.

Game Commission
2001 Elmerton Ave
Harrisburg, PA 17110
(717) 783-8164

State Web Site: http://www.state.pa.us/PAPower/
Department Web Site: http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/pa.html

Rhode Island- Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with the state Game Commission.

Division of Fish and Wildlife
P.O. Box 218
West Kingston, RI 02892
(401) 789-0281

State Web Site: http://www.state.ri.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ri.html

South Carolina- It is illegal to possess wildlife indigenous to the state without a permit. (Raccoons are indigenous to this state.)

Department of Natural Resources
P.O. Box 167
Columbia, SC 29202
(803) 734-4002

State Web Site: http://www.myscgov.com/SCSGPortal/static/home_tem1.html
Department Web Site: http://water.dnr.state.sc.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/sc.html

South Dakota- Raccoons are not directly referenced, but all non-domestic mammals must be examined by a veterinarian and be free of contagious, infectious, epidemic, or communicable diseases. I would directly contact the Animal Industry Board for further information.

Animal Industry Board
411 South Fort Street
Pierre, SD 57501
(605) 773-3321

State Web Site: http://www.state.sd.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.state.sd.us/aib/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/sd.html

Tennessee- The state does not regulate private possession of animals not listed under Category I. (Raccoons would fall under Category II, I believe.)

Wildlife Resources Agency
P.O. Box 40747
Nashville, TN 37204
(615) 781-6647

State Web Site: http://www.state.tn.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.state.tn.us/twra/index.html

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/tn.html

Texas- There are no requirements for ownership of animals not listed under dangerous wild animals. (Raccoons are not under that list.) I would check with The Parks and Wildlife Department

Parks & Wildlife Department

4200 Smith School Road  Austin, TX 78744 (800) 792-1112

(512) 389-4419

State Web Site: www.tpwd.state.tx.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/tx.html

Utah- Raccoons would fall under "controlled" species, but i could not find any direct references, so check directly with the Wildlife Board.

Department of Natural Resources
P.O. Box 145610
Salt Lake City, UT 84114
(801) 538-4700

State Web Site: http://www.utah.gov/
Department Web Site: http://www.nr.utah.gov/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ut.html

Vermont- It is illegal to posses an exotic animal as a "pet", but I could not find raccoons under this section. Also any wild animal imported into the state must have filled out an application in writing and pay the permit fee of $50.00. 

Department of Fish and Wildlife
103 South Main Street
Waterbury, VT 05671
(802) 241-3700

State Web Site: http://www.state.vt.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.anr.state.vt.us/fw/fwhome/index.htm

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/vt.html

Virginia- A permit is required to own or import a raccoon into the state. 

Department of Game and Inland Fisheries
P.O. Box 11104
Richmond, VA 23230
(804) 367-1000

State Web Site: http://www.state.va.us/
Department Web Site: http://www.dgif.state.va.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/va.html

Washington- Raccoons are not directly referenced, so check directly with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Department of Fish and Wildlife
600 Capitol Way N
Olympia, WA 98501
(360) 902-2200

State Web Site: http://access.wa.gov/
Department Web Site: http://www.wa.gov/wdfw/

West Virginia- The state regulates native species to the state. (A raccoon is native to the state.) To own a raccoon as a "pet" you must obtain a permit.

Division of Natural Resources
P.O. Box 67
Elkins, WV 26241
(304) 637-0245

State Web Site: http://www.wv.gov/
Department Web Site: http://www.wvdnr.gov/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/wv.html

Wisconsin- Raccoons are not directly referenced. Check directly with the Department of Natural Resources.

Department of Natural ResourcesBox 7921
Madison, WI 53707
(608) 266-2621

State Web Site: http://www.wisconsin.gov/state/home
Department Web Site: http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/wi.html

Wyoming- Raccoons may be owned or imported without obtaining a permit.

Game and Fish Department
5400 Bishop Boulevard
Cheyenne, WY 82006
(307)777-7735

State Web Site: http://www.state.wy.us/
Department Web Site: http://gf.state.wy.us/

USDA  http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/wy.html

So, again, I hope you found the information I have provided here, accurate, informative and useful. If you find that any laws have changed, or that any of the websites are no longer in use, please leave me a comment, so I can try to find out more recent information! 

10 Things To Consider When Deciding If A Raccoon Is For You

So you're contemplating a raccoon as a pet, and you're probably full of questions. So whether this has been a life long dream, or it's just a sudden impulse, let me give you some things to think on, before your race out, and bring a furry critter home. This is a, very literally, life changing decision that should take months of deliberation.

1. Do you live alone, or with other people? If you live alone, you may be very capable of caring for a raccoon on your own, then you must ask yourself yet another question, who will care for your coon while you're out? If your raccoon is frequently alone, it is likely that it will begin to return to it's wild instincts. Raccoons need to be constantly handled, and to have run of your home, in order to stay calm and manageable. So if you live alone, and lead a busy lifestyle, that keeps you away from home for long hours, then this is most definitely not the pet for you.

If you live with others you must consider, Will a raccoon fit into everyone in the household's life style?  For instance, if you live with your parents, friends or a roommate, are they okay with you bringing a wild animal into the home? If the answer is no, then this is not the animal for you. Raccoons want to investigate every inch of the home, and everyone in it. If someone in the home is uncomfortable with pets, this is only grounds for disaster. A raccoon is not always a respecter of persons or property. If you are head of household, take into consideration how your kids may take it. If they younger kids, who are rough with pets, they more then likely, will get bit at some point. You need to try and imagine worse case scenario here, like how would you take it, or how would your spouse? If you find yourself thinking, "I'd kill that damn raccoon!", then a raccoon is not for you! You must always have in mind, "If it has a mouth, it will bite." Period.

2. Do you travel a lot, or have a very busy schedule? As I stated above, if you are gone a lot, and not spending time with your raccoon, it will most likely regress into it's natural state of wild. Raccoons are not a domestic animal, like a dog or cat, so if they are not provided with constant enrichment, and attention, they will go back to the way they were intended to be. Most states do not allow you to bring wild animals in and out, so taking them with you, is typically out of the question. Some people have a close friend stay with pets if they will be gone for an extended period, but doing so with a raccoon all depends on what the raccoon thinks of that person. Raccoons typically only trust, and are friendly to, the people living in their home, all others are viewed as strangers. You need to be very cautious of who you leave alone with your raccoon. For your coons safety, as well as the persons.

3. Do you have lots of visitors or strangers to your house? Think about everyone who shows up to your home. Friends, in-laws, buisness acquaintances who are coming to work on the next big project, children you babysitt, your children's friends from school, clients to your home busienss. All of these people, who may frequent your home, may be viewed as intruders, by your raccoon. Imagine how devistating it would be to have your raccoon attack a child that was over for a slumber party with your kids. You couldn't blame the raccoon, as it may have felt it was protecting it's family (i.e. your child), but the game commission would not view it in this light. Also imagine your mother in-law's next weekend visit, and her waking up to your coon trying to "investigate" her luggage. Not everyone in the world may be so thrilled about your "pet".

4. What are the laws on owning a raccoon where you live? Most states have specific laws on owning wild life, and require you to obtain various permits through you states Game Commission. You should contact your states game commission directly, and they will be able to provide you with the laws, and what you can do to make your dream of owning a raccoon possible.

I live in Pennsylvania, and here the laws to owning a raccoon as a pet, in a private setting are that the raccoon must be purchased from a USDA, and state licensed breeder, within the state. You may not buy one from another state, it is illegal. So in order to get ours, we had to buy from a breeder within Pennsylvania. In Pa, you must also keep your receipt of purchase, as this becomes your permit to own. You may not breed your pet either. If it is a pet, and you get no further permits from the state, then any litters your raccoon would produce would be illegal. Also your raccoon must kept inside your home, and may not be housed outside. They are not to be taken around the general public. These are not a pet to show and tell, as if someone were to receive a bite and report it, it is likely that your raccoon would be confiscated, and tested for rabies.

5. Are there reputable, licensed breeders near you? The best thing your can do is google "raccoon breeders in...(where you live)", and go from there. You can even ask the game commission member when you speak to them about the laws, and see who they may know of. Take into strong consideration how far you are willing to travel to pick up a kit. Some breeders will ship kits by plane, but think about your poor little kit all alone in a cold shipping crate. This has to be horrifying to them, and I think it best that you pick up directly so that it can cuddle you for the trip home.

The breeder that we are purchasing from lives about an hour and a half from us, so the trip is completely doable. Also my fiance and I will be making the trip together, so that one of us can hold our kit, while the other drives. I will be doing another post, very soon on picking a good breeder, and elaborate on it then.

6. Is there a veterinarian near you, that is qualified to, and willing to care for your raccoon? Not just any dog or cat vet, can care for your raccoon. Raccoons have very specific needs, and using a vet that is not educated for caring for wildlife, could even cost them, their life. Raccoons required a dead rabies vaccine, and cannot be given the live virus. Also they should not be given vaccines created for ferrets. Some vaccines they need are intended for dogs, and others for cats, and being given the wrong one, can sometimes result in your raccoon contracting the disease that the shot is intended to prevent. Also with raccoons being so curious, they can sometimes get hurt and may require immediate medical attention. So be sure to call around and have a vet lined up before you make a raccoon purchase.

7. Are you willing to put up with all the destruction that a raccoon can leave in it's wake? Raccoons are intelligent, inquisitive creatures, who want to inspect and explore everything. They will go through cabinets, closets, dressers, clothes baskets, jewelry boxes, and entertainment stands. They will climb drapes, knock things off shelves, dig in house plants, fill your toilet with their loot, and chew on wires. They can dig through drywall and carpet, and even turn on faucets. So your home will need to be childproofed just as you would do for a toddler. Raccoons need constant supervision, and even then, if their mind is made up, they will still do as they please. They must be worked with from the time you bring them home, on what they are expected to leave alone in the home. It helps to provide them with lots of toys, and ample climbing areas, but even then, still be prepared for messes.

8. Are you patient, and calm? If the answer is no, then do not get a raccoon. You will be cleaning up their messes and chasing them around from the time they wake up, until the time they go to bed. (Which may be from the time you typically have gone to bed.) If they wish to play and your are sleeping, then that means, you are getting up to play. If you loose your temper easily, this is just going to cause you to have a vicious creature on your hands. The only discipline that is suitable for a raccoon is "scruffing" it, as the mother would, but only when it's a kit, stern "No's" and time outs. Hitting or screaming at your raccoon will cause it to become extremely aggressive. There's no room for violence when housing a raccoon, (or any other living creature for that matter!)

9. Do you have the means to care for a raccoon? Raccoons are very expensive pets! They typically run, price wise, $350.00 to $500.00, depending on the color you choose, and male or female. It is strongly advised that you have your raccoon fixed, which will usually run about the same as fixing a small dog. Some vets require that you let them do a rabies vaccine, in order to treat your raccoon in the future, but not all do, because there is no truly approved vaccine for raccoons. This is why they can still be confiscated, and tested for rabies, in the event of a bite. You should get your raccoon vaccinated for distemper as well, if you have a dog, that is frequently around other dogs, as distemper is an airborne disease. Other costs will include frequent wormings, to prevent round worm, which can be lethal to humans. And most expensive is FEEDING! Raccoon's diets required high grade dog or cat foods, fresh fruits and veggies, and cooked meats like chicken or fish. A raccoon eating only low quality dog or cat foods will not be a healthy one. They are omnivores, so they need a little of everything.  So if you and your family are on a tight budget, then you should wait to bring a raccoon home untill you are in a better state financially.

10. Are you willing to be responsible for this pet, regardless of whether it meets your expectations, for the rest of it's life? This is the most important of all! If your raccoon isn't all you dreamed it would be, are you still willing to provide it with an enriched, and healthy life. Raccoons in captivity can live to be 10-15 years old, and some are on record for living to their 20's! If your raccoon turns out to be on the unfriendly, or unruley side, are you still going to provide for it. In most states, it is illegal to just turn a raccoon loose into the wild, unless going through a wild life rehabber. So many rehabbers end up with "pet" raccoons, that have become "vicious", and they have to work for months or even years to help the animal regain all it's instincts. If you want a cute baby coon, then you need to know your are making a commitment to a future moody, possibly 35lb beast.

I hope that you will give clear thought to the questions that I have provided you with. As I said before, this is a life changing decision, not to be taken lightly. Everyone living under your roof will be effected, if you bring home a raccoon, and you need to do your research!

*Pictures for this post curtesy of photobucket.com .

A Coon It Is

"Why on earth would someone want a raccoon as a pet?" "Don't they have rabies?" "I've heard they attack people and go strait for the throat!" "Is she crazy?"

These are all things you may be asking yourself, and all things that I will cover for you in this blog. I promise, I am not completely crazy. LOL, just slightly eccentric. My reasoning for wanting a raccoon is somewhat selfish, i must admit. Nostalgia does play a part, as I have raised a raccoon, and worked with them as a teen. I have raised and successfully released an opossum, a squirrel, and a raccoon. I was a volunteer at an exotic animal rescue, where i worked with the primates, parrots, got to feed tigers and lions, was chased quite often by the ostrich, and was mobbed by deer at feeding time. 

All this, mixed with my dream of someday opening a menagerie to the public consisting of animals native to Pennsylvania, is why I will be bringing home a raccoon in the spring. And for the past 8 months, I have lived breathed and slept coon. Our research has not been easy, let me tell you. Sure the Internet has a wealth of basic raccoon knowledge, there are plenty of YouTube videos of people with their "orphaned" kit paired with nutty pop music, and there is tons of info on why not to own a raccoon. We found extremely limited info from folks who owned them as pets. 

So I decided that I would share our stories, from finding out laws, and finding a breeder, to the life stages of our very own kit, when he comes home! Hope you find this useful, in making a decision for your family, and if nothing else, hope you find it entertaining!