Live animals and animal products from overseas could introduce some of the world's most damaging pests and diseases into Australia. - Repeat the above steps to add more items as needed. They smear their droppings, which they produce constantly to mark their territory. In many states, do you think it's illegal to keep river otters, beavers and many exotic animals as pets? Thanks to hunting, habit destruction and many other human activities, almost all species of otter are either endangered or at least threatened. Do you know they have a higher rate of dying of starvation in the wild or dehydration or cars or other animals or hundreds of other things can kill them.my home is a safer place for most animals. : They are not illegal to breed. But they are legal in some states. They are the smallest otter species in the world. But there are many factors to consider. So, here are some of the reasons you should not keep an otter as a pet: Above all, otters are wild animals that are happiest in their natural habitats and are not meant to be kept in our homes. Likely, your otter will spend most of its life in the enclosure. These can grow up to 6 ft long, almost 2 meters, and have a nasty bite, so you probably wouldnt want to own one anyway! More on each of these later. Lontra canadensis. The woman in the video DOES SAY she would 100% NOT recommend an otter as a pet Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on May 27, 2019: Shame on you! Otters have an odor that lingers around them. Customer reviews and photos may be available to help you make the right purchase decision! 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.. Just saying because you want an exotic pet doesnt make you a bad person. Asian small-clawed otters - the only otter sometimes allowed as pets - need a mixture of land and water in their enclosure. 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. I guess if someone owns a exotic pet then theyd really need to keep it in a space like theyre natural environment and take really good care of it, not just like its a dog or cat. Remember when 101 Dalmations came out and everyone ran and got a Dalmation and thousands got dumped at animal shelters? 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. Dogs can infect otters with canine distemper and rabies. The upfront cost of purchasing an Asian small-clawed otter is approximately $4,000 unaffordable for most individuals. Speaking from experience in both areas, the caregivers who work with them are not taking on an easy job - they're noisier than a Siamese cat on an airplane. These include many species of native birds (mostly parrots), some captive-bred reptiles and frogs from a licensed breeder or society. Despite being the state small mammal of Texas, they are illegal as pets there because they are one of the few animals which can transmit Hansen's disease, also known as leprosy. Otters mostly eat fish and planktons, but they also feed on the ground with small birds, snails, frogs, or other amphibians. And if they do, it could get messy. They are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Pet owners must provide a secure and appropriate habitat, as well as proper nutrition and veterinary care. Reuters They're cute and playful when you see them on nature specials and at zoos, but in reality: They aren't domesticated in the slightest. Below is a basic care guide. Otters arent happy to be one or two with a child pool and a bathtub ! Nevertheless, otters are personable, entertaining little creatures, as you would expect from their reputation. Also watch for signs of bacterial infection to the wound. In the UK, otters are fully protected under Sections 9 and 11 of Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981[2]. Australia boasts a huge variety of animals. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. They are mustelids which means they belong to the same family as weasels, minks and badgers, but form a part of the subfamily Lutrinae. These have brought significant problems and it is very questionable if exotic animals will fare well in such environments. They thrive in social settings within their natural habitat. Great job on this article, Melissa! Some introduced animals, have become serious pests in Queensland that attack pets and damage crops, the environment and the economy. Its wrong for all the people who have commented to post where do I get get one, how much do they cost, etc why would you people even post shit like that. They are cunning and intelligent and predatory and like to know every nook and cranny of their dwelling place. Under provincial and federal law, it is illegal to keep a wild animal, as designated under the BC Wildlife Act, as a pet. The otter is one of the cutest creatures you can imagine. The latter option may be ethically questionable given the species vulnerable status in the wild, and brokers are unlikely to tell you where the animals are obtained (which is standard in the industry). However, pet owners must meet strict requirements, including providing a secure and appropriate habitat, proper nutrition, and veterinary care. If you still want to own this aquatic creature, the biggest obstacle you will face is this: Where can you find one? Nevada: In Nevada, owning an otter is legal as long as you have a permit from the Nevada Department of Wildlife. Not to mention the sad ways in which they are breed, in cages, only to then be separated from their significant others. Also They really have an annoying squeal. You may not think it, just to look at them, although even when stock-still they are adorable. Answer: You'd have to check with your local authorities, Asian clawed otters should be legal in NC and are the only type I know of that are obtainable. Most pet otters are actually owned by private zoos and animal educators. Also do you own any dogs or cats? Click to attach a photo related to your comment. Otters are carnivores and primarily eat fish, shellfish, and other aquatic creatures. Theyre not for us to publish to get likes ! North American river otter (or common otter): Found in and along North Americas waterways and coasts, these otters weigh between 11 and 31 lbs (5-14kg). Answer: Probably not. How otters are protected. Check out Otter Bingo and Otter Kotaro on U-Tube. The space aka property with a huge pond that I would build a huge enclosure around. You should be ashamed Mellissa! Question: Are sea otters legal in Kentucky? While most countries and states have made keeping a jackal as a pet illegal, others will require you to get . Why is is not right to have an OTTER as a PET? That way, youll get advice direct from the source! 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. It is important to work with trained professionals and follow guidelines for releasing otters back into the wild. Question: Are otters legal to have as pets in North Carolina? Of course, this depends on whether or not you can find someone willing to sell you one in the first place. When you see cute baby otters interacting with their keeperssuch as those in the videos hereremember that these are often socialized babies that have not yet undergone maturation. However, I'd like to be able to contribute to the conservation of otters and their habitat, so I hope I can find a way to do that. If the otter is not able to be released, it may be possible to adopt it as a pet. Prohibited mammals, reptiles and amphibians You are not allowed to keep prohibited animals as a pet in Queensland. Also, according to mink expert Joseph Carter, their bites can cause severe injury, although this is likely not worse than anything an otter bite can inflict. Here is a list of places where you might be able to find a pet otter: Exotic pet stores These are specialty stores that deal with rare and exotic animals. It is the most common type trapped and sold as pets. The base can consist of nutritionally-complete cat food. Captive otters require caging. The otter is not a domesticated animal species. Otters are wild animals and require specialized care. many native mammals have large home-ranges and need to kept in large outdoor enclosures. A otter is a species protected by both state and federal wildlife laws, and it is illegal to take them from the wild. Fun fact: Otters are one of the lesser-known tool users of the animal kingdom. Not only do these animals make terrible pets, but they're also nearly impossible to domesticate. Otters are restless and do not like to be restrained or restricted. Otters are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), and their trade is heavily regulated. Fencing needs to extend in-ground because they can also dig out. When it appears that an otter is legal under one statute but not another, the animal may be regulated by several laws. It is the smallest otter species in the world, reaching a length of just 3 ft, or 90cm. However, owning an otter as a pet is illegal in many states, so be sure to check local laws before purchasing. SafePetsForJoliet. 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. You need resources to own any pet, much less an exotic one. Pet Collars & Leashes Pet Furniture Pet Clothing & Shoes . !" EatRawPotatoes. Their bite is sharp and piercing. In the wild, they mostly eat fish, while sea-dwelling otters use stones to break open mollusks. That cute, fluffy sea otter you have in your photo? In Australia, it is illegal to keep an otter as a pet. They also mark their territory by smearing their scent; which is known as sprinting. While they are the smallest otter species in the world, Asian small-clawed otters can still grow to 24 inches (61cm). Do pet otters smell? What states are otters legal in? Animals other than those that are usually kept as a companion or domestic animal attract a lot of attention and generate curiosity to know what it is like to have one at home. Can you have a pet otter in australia. From a legal standpoint, owning an otter can be trickier than a skunk, but it is possible. A certified veterinarian giving advise on how to get an exotic animal to own as a pet? I just wanna make sure. Specifically, Missouri, North Carolina, Florida, Nebraska and a handful of other states appear to allow the private-ownership of otters. They love to swim and dive in shallow waters although there are records of sea otters diving as deep as 100 meters. Or someone actually get it and have no proper information on how to care for it? For example, in Nevada, lions and elephants are actually legal to own, but fennec foxes (which weigh 3 lbs) are not. Unique or exotic pets. Their ideal temperature is 75 to 85 degrees. If left untrained, they can leave many droppings around the house. But there is one species, the Asian small-clawed otter, which could be legal in some states. Question: Where do you go to adopt an otter? All you say and recommend is ethically against your Vet degree! I thank you for the info! It takes a tremendous amount of time, effort, patience, and experience to house them, provide them with enrichment, and keep them safe and secure. Don't even get us started on baby otter pups. You can usually visit the otter you have adopted, and some programs offer other perks, like behind-the-scenes tours. If you find a wild otter, it is best to leave it alone and contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center. They are carnivores with a high metabolic rate, requiring them to consume 20% of their body weight per day. That being said there are no breeders , otters are poached from the wild. The Answer May Surprise You! 2. In captivity, diets can vary somewhat but need to provide a lot of basic nutrients. 12:34. EXOTIC ANIMALS ARE NOT PETS. Question: Are pet otters legal in Canada? This classification means that only native otters are legal which includes the river otter. However, owning an otter as a pet is illegal in many states, so be sure to check local laws before purchasing. Its time to wake up and change, seriously. Question: Could an otter, raised from a young pup, make a unique and workable therapy animal or visiting moral animal for elderly / disabled / children? Yes, you can own an otter in Massachusetts as long as you have a permit from the state. About. In the wild they live in families of up to 15, which contrasts with their life in captivity. While they're widely illegal in the U.S., you may be able to own and care for an otter in some states with the proper permitting. If you do not live in a warm climate, supplementary heat is necessary for land. Living with a Pet Otter There are many effects which you should be aware of before getting a pet otter. Plus I would never just have one. Their appearance may be similar to a friendly dog's, but their temperament is quite the opposite. Average Lifespan, What Do Parakeets Like to Eat? The only reason is if they cannot survive in the wild and need to be protected. Emergency Vet Prices: How Much Does an Emergency Vet Visit Cost? Can you have a pet penguin in Canada? I can only make educated guesses as to where they might be legal due to researching what isn't legal. Otters are wild animals and can be unpredictable, especially if they feel threatened or uncomfortable. Otters can be legally obtained for private ownership. You need a vet. Other otter species, like the ocean otter and giant otter, can reach lengths of 6 ft (1.8m), as long as a tall human. 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? Retrieved from, Smith, C. (2017). If you are bit by an otter, you'll need to treat the wound immediately. Point is people that invest this kind of money on pets love them. If you want to interact with otters, consider visiting a zoo or aquarium or volunteering with a wildlife rehabilitation center. Enjoy an otter stuffed animal It's scary to think of what it'll be like in just 5-10 more years. Fun fact: Otters have the thickest coats in the animal kingdom! Complex care requirements: Otters are not domesticated animals and require specialized care. In the United States, it is legal to own an otter with a license, although regulations vary from state to state. However, keeping otters in captivity is not the same as keeping an otter as a pet. You see, otters are members of the weasel family. amanda panda 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. What zoos and aquariums have sea otters? Supplement their diet with vegetables, soft-boiled eggs, and insects. If you want to see otters, your best bet is to visit a zoo or aquarium. slowelevator . However, there is also DNA evidence to suggest that cats were susceptible to the process of domestication and may have even domesticated themselves[3]. Even a pair of otters is not ideal and you will need another 5 m per additional otter. 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. While it's common to keep dogs and cats as pets, other unique and interesting animals including reptiles, insects, amphibians and terrestrial . There are several websites and online sources where pet otters are sold. They are easier to care for, cheaper to buy, require zero, or at least fewer, licenses and permits to keep as pets, and are significantly easier to find willing veterinarians for. If you are handling or cuddling your otter, it will know if it doesnt have your full attention, and scream in order to get it. Dont take my word for it read this! Eastern Racer. They are hard to potty train, and their fast metabolism means they poop a lot, and often. No, and you don't want one. Several countries have legislation protecting otters from being kept as pets. seni, var, bir, pet, otter, iinde, Avustralya, olabilir. But theyre probably more likely to bite unfamiliar people, like visitors! Before considering obtaining a permit to keep an otter, it is important to thoroughly research the requirements and responsibilities involved. They are cunning! So why don't you see more otters playing in the park on a Sunday afternoon? Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on December 21, 2016: People in Japan are notorious for doing whatever they want and making it work. Many zoos and aquariums have volunteer programs that allow you to work with otters and other animals. Over half of all 13 otter species are endangered or vulnerable and are not legally breed - they have to be capture, usually by killing the mother and confiscating the pups. (Lifespan Guide). (Complete Budgie Diet Guide). Even if you are granted a permit, you will need to provide proper care for the otter and follow strict regulations. What is the Difference Between a Donkey, a Mule and an Ass? Can you own an otter in BC? Plumbing fixture you fuck an otter as a pet linear unit australia OTTERS as PETS Reason It's a BAD Thought. Also it's diet would not only be what is in the ponds clearly but only then would I even think about getting an otter. Otters are cute, furry water animals that hold hands and groom each other to bond. No, otters cannot be domesticated. Cats Domesticated Themselves, Ancient DNA Shows. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. I have to say that most though not all of the comments cause me extreme concern regarding our society today. Do otters like to cuddle? This permit requires that you have a secure and adequate enclosure for your otter, and that you provide proper care and nutrition for your pet. Keeping an otter as a solitary pet can make them very sad. This breed was thriving in the 12th Century and was used to hunt otters. Asian otters require a tropical climate and room to explore and play. They also mark their territory by smearing their feces around, which contributes to the odor.. 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. Unless you are an expert or biologist or zoologist, you should not own an exotic pet. However, if youre still keen on the otter, and live in a state where you can legally own one, youre welcome to take the next step. They are all semiaquatic, aquatic or marine mammals, and subsist on diets mainly based on fish and invertebrates, such as mollusks. (2018). I greatly agree that some animals are better of wild but I read somewhere as well that as more human encroach on their natural habitats, these animals need to be protected. It is also something which could see a rise in other countries if the wrong information is spread. Retrieved on 29 November, 2019. These animals are also preys in the wild and keeping these animals as pet increase their chances of survival greatly. Otters are very playful creatures. Are otters legal pets? Question: How much does a pet otter cost? Japan Times. you, an, otter, as, a, pet, unit, australia, s, can, have, in. Required fields are marked *. The Asian small-clawed otter is the smallest species of otter. If you love animals, then volunteer at shelters, rescues, or an ACA accredited zoo. Otters are usually kept outdoors because they emit an odor. You can give them a complete cat food as the base, but make sure that over half of their diet is meat-based. They have exotic pet stores with meerkats in rabbit cages. It is illegal to have an otter in most states, Pet otters require a lot of space and water, Axolotl Care: How to take care of an axolotl, Vietnamese Mossy Frog Pet Care (10 Steps Complete Guide), American Green Tree Frog as Pets (4 Care Facts You Must. Otters are much happier (and quieter) in their natural habitat. Additionally, if you live near a river, lake, or other natural body of water, you may be able to spot otters in the wild. Otters are delightfully cute. Answer: You purchase otters from a breeder or broker. Theyre not for us to put them in cute hats ! Some might make an argument that an animal like the cat was not originally domesticated, but now fares well under human co-existence. If you want to have an otter as a pet, make sure that they have a pond or a lake filled with their food, or you can manage to bring them fresh one from the market. A new fundraiser, Made by Mori: A Day at the Movies has been organised to raise funds for the recovery, with a day of iconic Mori-made films to screen at Silky Otter Cinemas across Aotearoa . This is highly recommended if you want to keep your otters happy and in good mental and physical health. Participants must be able to squat/kneel down and stand up quickly and without assistance. Hundreds of thousands of newborn kittens are euthanized at shelters because no one can take care of them.