Dont take my word for it read this! They require about 2-2, 5 pounds of meat every day. Their unpleasant smell can permeate a home if they live indoors. Otters need space to roam. Otter For Sale (747) | Petzlover What zoos and aquariums have sea otters? For many, ferrets make a viable alternative. When you are walking, you have to focus on walking because there are so many factors that come into playbalance, proprioceptionand you can't take those for granted.". Captive otters require caging. While it's common to keep dogs and cats as pets, other unique and interesting animals including reptiles, insects, amphibians and terrestrial . 7 Caracal Cat Facts. No. However, a recent uptick of otter attacks has caused distress to many fish owners across the island. Question: Are otters legal pets in California? This is only a very simplified introduction to feeding. If left untrained, they can leave many droppings around the house. Some might make an argument that an animal like the cat was not originally domesticated, but now fares well under human co-existence. This is the smallest. Otters are usually kept outdoors because they emit an odor. Why you shouldn't share that cute pet otter video Ana Sayfa; En iyi videolar; Hafta iin en iyi; . Can You Have A Pet Otter In Australia Watch HD Videos. Specifically, Missouri, North Carolina, Florida, Nebraska and a handful of other states appear to allow the private-ownership of otters. The only reason is if they cannot survive in the wild and need to be protected. The humble, or not so humble, otter is one of the most widespread mammals on Earth. Otters are adorable animals, but keeping them as pets is not a good idea. Objects, such as hollowed-out lots, well-placed shrubs and trees, and items of cage furniture. Utterly Outrageous Otters Encounter - Australia Zoo - Steve Irwin It is illegal to keep almost all otters as pets in North America, with one exception. Yes, I said scream. They deserve to be out in the world in environments which we do't interfere with. Zoological parks Some zoos have captive breeding programs for otters and may offer the opportunity to adopt one. The base can consist of nutritionally-complete cat food. West Virginia: Otter ownership is legal in West Virginia with a permit from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. In such a case, the average dog run won't cut it. All pets have at least some bans on exotic pets, even if they sometimes dont make complete sense. You need a vet. These big furry dogs were bred to hunt otters, which were considered as pests back in the day. Crested Gecko Enclosures: Whats the Best Choice? An otters diet can vary in captivity. You see, otters are members of the weasel family. Find Out Now! Otters are restless and do not like to be restrained or restricted. Put a ring on it! It is extremely important that you provide diverse enrichment for ottersand all animals for that matter. Interestingly, however, otters can be legally obtained for private ownership. Or in a zoo? Can You Own An Otter As A Pet In Australia? - CelestialPets However, owning an otter as a pet is illegal in many states, so be sure to check local laws before purchasing. In most countries, only dogs and miniature horses are recognized as therapy animals. [removed] No, you dont need to have a massive zoo enclosure with a natural lake (although it wouldnt hurt), but housing Asian small-clawed otters will still present a challenge for the average person or even an advanced exotic pet keeper. When I worked for the park service, every year after easter people dump the bunnies,chicks and ducks they got for kids in the park because they grew up and couldn't handle them. It is illegal to own most otter species as pets. Such illegal trafficking is detrimental to wild populations of animals worldwide. Additionally, otters require specialized care and a suitable habitat, making them unsuitable as pets for most people. Even ferrets are not necessarily easy pets but the first thing I would recommend as a mustelid for a pet. They are all semiaquatic, aquatic or marine mammals, and subsist on diets mainly based on fish and invertebrates, such as mollusks. Arkansas: Arkansas is one of the few states in the U.S. that allows otter ownership as a pet. Answer: Since pet otters are rare, a dealer has a lot of leeway when naming their price. Can You Have Otters as Pets - Petsnetic Note that you still require special permits in many of these states, and local city governments also stipulate whether it is legal or illegal to keep exotic animals within city limits, so make sure you find out this information before buying an otter! !" EatRawPotatoes. They do not fall under the same laws because they are not technically marine mammals. Can you have a pet penguin in Canada? Unless you are an expert or biologist or zoologist, you should not own an exotic pet. Otters are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), and their trade is heavily regulated. Otters like to climb and dig, so your enclosure will need a top and to be dug into the ground. Pool should make up about 30% of the enclosure. If you don't provide sufficient environmental enrichment, they will likely find it for themselves, probably among your things. I just wanna make sure. Can You Have an Otter as a Pet? 2023 Bestie Paws Hospital Are otters dangerous? Because I love otters. Can Otters Be Pets? - wildlifefaq.com 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. 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. This does not even take into consideration the amount of capital needed to install the appropriate enclosure and keep the otters well fed. Otters arent as cute as you might think. About. If i found a fox or coyote i would raise it. Here are a few to get you started, plus some basic information about how they fit into the otter pet trade: 1. Otters climb, so a roof or top is required, and they are keen diggers, so any fencing needs to be extended in-ground. Wildlife rehabilitation centers - These centers take in injured or orphaned wild animals and care for them until they can be released back into the wild. Otters attack again lol Serangoon Gardens | HardwareZone Forums Messy housemates. More on each of these later. Otters are protected under the law, and it is illegal to keep them as pets or attempt to care for them yourself. When she isn't creating content for blog posts, Hannah enjoys long walks with her Rottweiler cross Senna, reading fantasy novels and breeding aquarium shrimp. If you have adopted one, youll need to have the proper habitat for it. They werent always domesticated they were rescued or ripped away from thier habitat as well for generations. Even if you could get an otter certified as a therapy animal, it would still be illegal to buy or sell one. Ive occasionally seen them offered for sale on exoticanimalsforsale.net in the past, but not for a while. Nutritionally complete cat food can serve as a base subsistence food. Mrs Smith, inform yourself, go back to University to learn the BASIC ethics of your job. 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. More otters smuggled for sale in Japan as demand as pets grows. In the wild, they use their strong jaws and sharp teeth to crack open shells and catch fish. Are otters good pets? I think otters are fun to watch, have exciting personalities and overall give out positive vibes. Pet Guide: How to Care for a Pet Emperor Scorpion, Blue Parakeets: 5 Step Complete Care and Color Mutation Guide, How Long Do Budgie or Parakeet Live as Pets? SafePetsForJoliet. Otter licences - GOV.UK Can you have otters as pets in Canada? - ruggedthuglife.com Hundreds of thousands of newborn kittens are euthanized at shelters because no one can take care of them. They have exotic pet stores with meerkats in rabbit cages. 12:16. Because they are cute is not a valid reason for keeping captive otters, even if it is an enjoyable bonus. I cannot recommend any otter species as a personal "pet," although a few have maintained a strong bond with their handler their entire life. Here are some pros and cons to consider: Pros: -Otters are very playful and active, which can make them fun pets. Average Lifespan, What Do Parakeets Like to Eat? If an otter does attack, they have sharp teeth which can be very dangerous, especially to children. I completed my post-graduate studies at Nottingham Trent University in 2021, securing an MSc Biodiversity Conservation qualification. And if they do, it could get messy. Great job on this article, Melissa! A Guide to Legally Owning and Caring for a Pet Otter Expenses such as those mentioned above are not the only detrimental factors in keeping an otter as a pet. They have been known to destroy furniture with their inquisitive claws and teeth. Stop being sensitive everyone. However, they also mark territory with scent glands at the base of their tail. Health and safety risks: Otters can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans and pets, and their sharp claws and teeth can cause injury. Otters have an odor that lingers around them. The otter is one of the cutest creatures you can imagine. In the wild they live in families of up to 15, which contrasts with their life in captivity. They also mark their territory by smearing their feces around, which contributes to the odor.. Reuters But there are many factors to consider. It could benefit the scientific community as well since little is known about their behaviors. For instance, in Nevada, lions and elephants are technically legal to own but not 3-pound fennec foxes. They also mark their territory by smearing their scent; which is known as sprinting. You cannot keep one as a pet in the US. Avoid rigid structure in order to prevent stereotypic behavior. They are cunning and intelligent and predatory and like to know every nook and cranny of their dwelling place. Funny Otter Sweatshirt Teacher Gift Sweatshirt Cute Otter - Etsy 11 reasons why you should NOT have an otter as a pet. They live in freshwater wetlands and mangrove swamps in Southern Asia. Aquarium where you can touch otters? - aquariums - 2023 Additionally, if you live near a river, lake, or other natural body of water, you may be able to spot otters in the wild. Keeping an otter as a pet has become fashionable in some countries for some time. While they may have a better chance of coexistence with humans if socialized at a young age, it is not easy to predict their actions. All pets have at least some bans on exotic pets, even if they sometimes don't make complete sense. Most people do not know what they are doing. However, mascotism damages biodiversity, since it does not focus on . Thanks. Rage at the cruelty of man. Otters can carry and transmit dangerous bacteria like Salmonella and Streptococcus phocae to you and your other animals. 1. Can You Have an Armadillo as a Pet? - Is it Legal? - AnimalWised you, have, a, pet, otter, in, australia, can. This species is not for beginners. 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! Otters can be legally obtained for private ownership. The recommended space for a pair of otters is 60 m, roughly the size of an average apartment. Even cats and dogs require a team of people to help you. Here is a list of states in which owning an otter is legal, along with some important information to keep in mind if you are considering acquiring an otter as a pet. All you say and recommend is ethically against your Vet degree! Are otters friendly with humans? All those things you find cute on IG are them showing their distress ! In most countries, otters are considered wild animals, and it is illegal to buy or sell them. Even you own a river its not enough! Cage should have a top and fencing needs to extend in-ground. Otters are much happier (and quieter) in their natural habitat. Their appearance may be similar to a friendly dog's, but their temperament is quite the opposite. That cute, fluffy sea otter you have in your photo? Otters can be legally obtained for private ownership. They bite and they have glands to produce a vile smell , people get those removed , its cruel. (8 Best Scorpions Types as Pets), How Often Do Scorpions Eat? The best enclosure for an otter is outside. When it appears that an otter is legal under one statute but not another, the animal may be regulated by several laws. Pet owners must provide a secure and appropriate habitat, as well as proper nutrition and veterinary care. Swimming in circles , chanting, running around like crazy is them showing they suffer! It depends on the state, but yes, it is likely illegal. 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. If you are interested in adopting an otter, you will need to provide a specialized diet that includes a variety of fresh fish and shellfish. Also do you own any dogs or cats? These toys are excellent for species that hunt and forge. Are Emperor Scorpions Poisonous? ), Are jumping spiders friendly or harmful to us? The space aka property with a huge pond that I would build a huge enclosure around. If you have managed to acquire an otter, please make sure you know how to care for it properly and that you are committed to keeping it for the entirety of its lifetime. Living in captivity is simply not a good life for an otter. They are cunning! These include: Otters need plenty of environmental enrichment. Much more fun fact: Otter poop has an aroma that has been compared to jasmine tea. I tend to state that theres no such thing as a good or bad petit depends on what youre looking for in an animal. With that said, most or all states will likely ban possession of native otters, and the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act strongly protects marine species (sea otters). Otters are very organized in their pooping, and have a designated pooping area per otter community. They do not like intruders in their space or near their family and will defend accordingly. Can you have an otter as a pet? | AgroCorrn When theyre captured and sold as pets, otters are not living their full, natural lives. 10 dog breeds facing extinction in the UK: Rough collies, greyhounds Animals and mostly exotic ones are not our toys or our means to make money. As a pet, otter ownership can be difficult for a variety of reasons, but owning one is not an easy choice. Question: Are otters illegal in western Australia? But what do you think? 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. What states are otters legal in? Marvel at the patience that the author must have had. Can You Have An Otter As A Pet In Australia Watch HD Videos. Otters are wild animals. But can you keep one as a pet? Fencing needs to extend in-ground because they can also dig out. If you cannot provide an outdoor area, you must provide a large, heated (it must not fall below 50F), secure indoor area, with a pool kept at 75-85F. Are there any research programs to help repopulate endangered species of otters such as the Congo clawless otter which so little is known about. Question: are otters legal to own in New York? Native birds are also federally protected. These Otters Are Popular Pets in Asia. That May Be Their Undoing. It takes a tremendous amount of time, effort, patience, and experience to house them, provide them with enrichment, and keep them safe and secure. If I live in Australia can I own a pet otter? - Quora Cats and dogs were bred to be companions and we couldn't even handle that. Are otters legal pets? There are several ways to support otter conservation efforts, including: In conclusion, otters are unique and fascinating animals that are best appreciated from a distance. Your bathtub or pool cant substitute for the large bodies of water otters are naturally found in. Dogs and otters do not get along. However, just like any other wild animal, otters can be dangerous and aggressive. 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. I have seen so many animals killed because of ignorance. It is illegal to keep this indigenous otter as a pet in the United States, and not advised to take it out of North America. 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. 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. They have varying sizes across all species, weighing between 2.2 to 99.2 lb and having lengths between 2.0 to 5.9 feet. Otters are carnivores and primarily eat fish, shellfish, and other aquatic creatures. Otters can also be loud and destructive. They are hard to potty train, and their fast metabolism means they poop a lot, and often. To raise an otter away from its natural family group is a tragedy, so if you are still planning on keeping an otter, know that you will have to keep several otters in order to maintain the sanity and mental wellbeing of each one! How To Care for A Pet Otter? From a legal standpoint, owning an otter can be trickier than a skunk, but it is possible. You'll also need access to plenty of fish. I spearfish the invasive fish in the eel river and have had wild otters swimming feet away from me eating the fish I kill. Sea otters carry around a favorite rock in a pouch under their arms between meals, which they use to crack open the shells of various crustaceans. Pets You Can Have In Australia - UniAcco Aggression in otters is also something important to consider. 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. Question: How much does a pet otter cost? When walking on our uneven roads is a balancing act Some animals are illegal to keep in Queensland. Squirrels as Pets - Is It OK to Have a Pet Squirrel? You can usually visit the otter you have adopted, and some programs offer other perks, like behind-the-scenes tours. The fact that these otters require a tropical climate may be why they tend to be kept mostly by zoo professionals. Not needing to be walked or taken out for exercise is a big plus for many people. Unless you do what Joseph Carter does for his mink to keep them busy, I wouldn't recommend them as pets to most people. That being said there are no breeders , otters are poached from the wild. Japan Times. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Can You Have an Otter as a Pet? - Is it Illegal or Even Practical? But even if this is the case, keeping them as a pet will be discouraged by animal control and the Department of Health. If you have a dog in your home, they can get into fights with your otter., Dogs and otters can transmit diseases to each other as well. 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. Under provincial and federal law, it is illegal to keep a wild animal, as designated under the BC Wildlife Act, as a pet. - Once you have that set, click "Add to Cart". Otters can be destructive. iPhone 11 Otter + Pop Symmetry Series Case - amazon.com This article is very upfront and honest, however when reading the comments I was overwhelmed with all the ignorance. As wild animals, otters will not want to be kept in a small enclosure and their dexterous claws mean they will try to climb or dig their way out. Otters are delightfully cute. You can supplement the diet with monkey nuts, soft-boiled eggs, crayfish and insects, introduced at irregular intervals with a scatter method. They're actually very aggressive animals. For example, in Nevada, lions and elephants are actually legal to own, but fennec foxes (which weigh 3 lbs) are not. After reading your expose, I realize that it would not be fair or practical. Asian countries, including Japan, Thailand, and Malaysia, have thriving pet otter industries. It's scary to think of what it'll be like in just 5-10 more years. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over a decade of practical animal husbandry experience, Hannah's articles cover everything from pet care to wildlife conservation. 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. The larger the group, the larger the smear. I will stick with my donations and wish them love. -They are relatively low-maintenance, compared to other animals. In captivity, diets can vary somewhat but need to provide a lot of basic nutrients. That includes all game animals, birds and furbearers, including bear, beaver, coyote, deer,. 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. 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. What types of animals am I allowed to keep as a pet in NSW? Supplement their diet with vegetables, soft-boiled eggs, and insects. Can you own an otter as a pet in Australia? - KnowledgeBurrow.com Poisonous bite symptoms and treatments, 8 AMAZING jumping spiders types you can get as pets, 31 Interesting Axolotl Facts That Will Blow Your Mind. 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. Otters should not live in a domestic household, and a demand for pet otters helps drives illegal animal trade and decimate wild populations. Thanks to hunting, habit destruction and many other human activities, almost all species of otter are either endangered or at least threatened. Film fundraiser showcasing Mori-made movies for cyclone relief Hi I'm looking to buy a otter I want to know how much they go for. 11:06. Otters can be dangerous around children, full grown adults as well as pets. However, pet owners must meet strict requirements, including providing a secure and appropriate habitat, proper nutrition, and veterinary care. Prohibited mammals, reptiles and amphibians You are not allowed to keep prohibited animals as a pet in Queensland. Fr Rudi, as . Not only does this depend on the country, the legality of keeping an otter as a pet will also depend on regions and jurisdiction within a given country. Instead of citing specific sizes, I would recommend simply imagining what you would deem an acceptable length and width for a very energetic and playful carnivore that will spend most, if not all, of its life in the enclosure. Wildlife as pets | Mass.gov They are the masters of disaster. Because Dalmations are high energy dogs that were bred to run 25 miles a day under carriages, and the families couldn't handle them. Members of the Mustelidae family, otters are related to weasels, badgers, honey badgers, martens, minks, polecats and wolverines. 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! 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. Retrieved from. There are many otters kept in captivity, but these are in animal welfare centers, zoos or conservation areas. Hence the name. It is the smallest otter species in the world, reaching a length of just 3 ft, or 90cm. They are carnivores with a high metabolic rate, requiring them to consume 20% of their body weight per day. Not only do you need the right enclosure and dietary resources to take care of a pet otter, but you need to have access to specialists in your neighborhood. Nevertheless, otters are personable, entertaining little creatures, as you would expect from their reputation. On the 4 Asian species 3 are under protection because theyre getting extinct ! Im in Canada, BC, and it didnt say anything about owning a pet otter, and I left a comment on the other page, but I was wondering if its legal in BC. The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers to this website may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. While they are the smallest otter species in the world, Asian small-clawed otters can still grow to 24 inches (61cm). You can have 2 of each of the following animals: American Bullfrog. (Complete Budgie Diet Guide). NO. They would come to the nano-reef forums posting spotless 10 gallon tanks loaded with fish including tangs. 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. Other members of this family include weasels, skunks, and ferrets. However, if you have ever seen one having a snooze while going down river, opening up lunch on their bellies or rollicking in the water with their friends, only the meanest of the mean wouldn't find them enchanting. As we have stated, they are not domestic animals. If the water is not sufficiently well cleaned, it can lead to the quick death of the otter. Other otter species, like the ocean otter and giant otter, can reach lengths of 6 ft (1.8m), as long as a tall human.