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. You can discover many popular videos of them interacting with their caretakers in ways other than direct contact. I was looking into purchasing a friend but after all this I think its not the best for either of us. The lifespan of otters varies depending on the species and their environment. All those things you find cute on IG are them showing their distress ! I have recently embarked on this career change due to my passion for the natural world and our role within it. You should include fish. 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). Do otters stink? The IUCN guidelines don't even provide a the space for a single otter as otters are social animals that need at least one other otter for company. Product details: Item Number: 001000265731 Brand: Otter Box Model Number: iPhone 7 Plus Colour: Pink We ship nationwide! (2019). 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! Animals and mostly exotic ones are not our toys or our means to make money. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has previously released a general, but not exhaustive, guideline to keeping otters in captivity[4]. 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. 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. I spearfish the invasive fish in the eel river and have had wild otters swimming feet away from me eating the fish I kill. 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). For example, in Nevada, lions and elephants are actually legal to own, but fennec foxes (which weigh 3 lbs) are not. Yet otters are still being illegally smuggled into these countries to be sold as pets., Loud noises. When it appears that an otter is legal under one statute but not another, the animal may be regulated by several laws. This classification means that only native otters are legal which includes the river otter. Guess what, they are picked off by predators within 3 days. 7080% of the diet can be meat-based and can consist of day-old chicks, chicken, venison, rabbit, etc. Here is we collected all that you wanted about Can You Have An Otter As A Pet In Australia Watch free videos. 2023 The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers on this website. Much more fun fact: Otter poop has an aroma that has been compared to jasmine tea. I have an affinity for unique companions (my first buddy was a nurse shark that imprinted on me). The local authority's regulations will need to be assessed before it could even be considered. It is illegal in all US States to keep this indigenous otter as a pets. 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. Supporting conservation efforts and avoiding products that contribute to habitat destruction can help protect these animals. Otters are much happier (and quieter) in their natural habitat. Only one species of otters is not considered federally illegal in the US, which is the Asian small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinereus). 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. Remember to always treat otters with respect and caution, and support conservation efforts to protect these important animals. 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.. I thank you for the info! Heres what you need to know to provide adequate nutrition to a captive otter: Otters emit an odor, and smear their spraint (a fancy word for otter dung) at latrine sites, using their hind feet and tails, in order to mark their territory. As with all wild animals, otters are likely to react to humans in unexpected ways, and they can turn aggressive when they feel threatened. Otters can be destructive. They can cause damage to your home and hurt other animals in your family. 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. Some of the different types of otter species include: The North American river otter is the only river otter found in north of Mexico. What is the Difference Between a Donkey, a Mule and an Ass? Its not like they are using them for fur or food. However, they will probably warn you against going down the route of otter husbandry, for the reasons I have outlined in this guide. But there are many factors to consider. Note: All information comes from online resources and personal knowledge. Question: Are Otters legal to own in Texas? They love water so it is best if you have a body of water nearby for them to frolic in. you, have, a, pet, otter, in, australia, can. You may be asked to demonstrate this. Asian countries, including Japan, Thailand, and Malaysia, have thriving pet otter industries. Even if it weren't, keeping wild animals as pets is not a good idea. Habitat destruction, hunting, and pollution threaten their conservation. Plumbing fixture you fuck an otter as a pet linear unit australia OTTERS as PETS Reason It's a BAD Thought. 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. And I really want to pet or hold hands with an otter. Food is expensive. Those nails are perfectly manicured, oh yes they are! As a result, these pets are often abandoned. There are many different laws and regulations regarding "exotic" animals as pets and they vary from state to state, so the answer depends on where you live. Even a pair of otters is not ideal and you will need another 5 m per additional otter. But there is one species, the Asian small-clawed otter, which could be legal in some states. Otters require a large enclosure with access to water, a specialized diet, veterinary care, and enrichment to keep them mentally and physically healthy. Dont get a pet to show off get a pet because you have heart ! Answer: Sea otters are not legal anywhere under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. 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. People who like to physically interact with their pets will be disappointed. That being said there are no breeders , otters are poached from the wild. All goods sold at cash converters are cleaned and tested to ensure you're completely satisfied with your purchase. There is a high chance of one of them getting bitten. For instance, in Nevada, lions and elephants are technically legal to own but not 3-pound fennec foxes. Thanks to hunting, habit destruction and many other human activities, almost all species of otter are either endangered or at least threatened. Otters need plenty of environmental enrichment. Buy iPhone 11 Otter + Pop Symmetry Series Case at Amazon. Although the ferret needs their own considerations when adopted into a family, they are more suited to the role of domestic pet and are a good recommendation for those who previously considered having an otter as a pet. Other zoological animals like meerkats, raccoon dogs, slow lorises, and pangolins can't be owned privately for many reasons, at least in the United States. It is the smallest otter species in the world, reaching a length of just 3 ft, or 90cm. Lontra canadensis. There should be hollowed-out logs, aptly placed shrubs and trees, and various cage furniture that will make the space more interesting. Only two species of native mammal can be kept . The otter is one of the cutest creatures you can imagine. Their appearance may be similar to a friendly dog's, but their temperament is quite the opposite. 9 Affordable Pet Insurance for Low Income Families, Donating to organizations that support otter conservation, research, and habitat protection, Purchasing products made from sustainable materials to reduce habitat destruction, Volunteering at a local wildlife rehabilitation center or conservation organization, Advocating for policies and regulations that protect otters and their habitats. After otter hunting was banned in the UK in 1978, their numbers dropped. But would only ever do it if I had the money #1, a lot of money. can u own a otter in ohio or any other place please respond because im in highschool and i have plans to move to a place that allows pet otters please respond this important or my dreams wil be crushed to live a happy life, really i cant find any where to own one now i feel depressed so where, cus im planning to move to a state that allows them whith a friend. 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. Otters are very playful and charming and it might seem easy to interact with them or have them as pets. They have an oil, waterproof coat and webbed feet, which makes them good swimmers. They are the smallest otter species in the world. Otters are generally well loved in Singapore. It's scary to think of what it'll be like in just 5-10 more years. If you love animals, then volunteer at shelters, rescues, or an ACA accredited zoo. They have high exercise and socialization needs and require a large living space with access to water. It is illegal to keep almost all otters as pets in North America, with one exception. You just made that up and got angry for no reason. Put a ring on it! 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. You should be ashamed Mellissa! Great job on this article, Melissa! Giant otter: Native to South America, these otters are very large, quite noisy, and actually very social. It takes a tremendous amount of time, effort, patience, and experience to house them, provide them with enrichment, and keep them safe and secure. It is important to work with trained professionals and follow guidelines for releasing otters back into the wild. Most products include Include a 90 day warranty for your convenience and to ensure you're completely satisfied! Most states make their laws for certain animals unclear and otters could be regulated under some laws when it appears they are legal under another law. Otters do climb, adding to the complexity of the habitat, so a top is required. Answer: Australia is extremely strict with entry and exportation of exotics, so no. Cole West from Birmingham, West Midlands on March 03, 2020: Anya Ali from Rabwah, Pakistan on February 01, 2020: This certainly put me off the idea of ever getting one. 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. If not..why? People in Indonesia, Thailand, Japan,. Otters are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), and their trade is heavily regulated. Are Emperor Scorpions Poisonous? 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. More on each of these later. You will need to provide a heated area for them when temperatures drop below 50F. Conservationists may need to keep an otter in captivity for protection, post-rescue or for research purposes. They thrive in social settings within their natural habitat. This breed was thriving in the 12th Century and was used to hunt otters. The recommended space for a pair of otters is 60 m, roughly the size of an average apartment. 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. This can be fed irregularly with a "scatter" method to ward off stereotypic behaviorsomething that occurs when certain animals are fed at specific times. Instead, consider visiting them at a zoo or wildlife sanctuary, where you can observe and appreciate these amazing animals in a safe and responsible manner. Can Dogs Have Whipped Cream? Don't even get us started on baby otter pups. Living inside comes with many challenges, like cleaning up otter feces and keeping your furniture intact. Not only do these animals make terrible pets, but they're also nearly impossible to domesticate. For example, in Nevada, lions and elephants are actually legal to own, but fennec foxes (which weigh 3 lbs) are not. Captive otters are also required to have a registered veterinarian who is happy to see them whenever required, which is hard to find at the best of times. No, and you don't want one. They are carnivores with a high metabolic rate, requiring them to consume 20% of their body weight per day. I tend to state that theres no such thing as a good or bad petit depends on what youre looking for in an animal. Sometimes people can't handle the truth. In the majority of the US, it is completely illegal to keep an otter as a pet. If you still want to own this aquatic creature, the biggest obstacle you will face is this: Where can you find one? Not needing to be walked or taken out for exercise is a big plus for many people. Listen people, trying to stifle information will only lead to more of that thing your trying to stop dont be ignorant. Otters are wild animals. Otters can be legally obtained for private ownership. 2. Many zoos and aquariums offer adoption programs, which allow you to support the care of an otter without owning one. Point is people that invest this kind of money on pets love them. 11:06. Stoats as Pets: Guidelines and General Tips, The Ocelot as a Pet: Everything you Need to Know, Silver Foxes as Pets: Guidelines and General Tips, Ostriches as Pets: Guidelines and General Tips, Gov UK. The short answer is yes, but it comes with many caveats or catches. 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. Maximum of two people per encounter. Yes, there are some health risks associated with otters. Space alone is not enough to mimic the otter's natural ecosystem. Before considering obtaining a permit to keep an otter, it is important to thoroughly research the requirements and responsibilities involved. Guests must be fit and healthy, have full motor skill and intellectual capabilities. Aggression when stressed. Eric Farmer from Rockford Illinois on February 18, 2018: On one hand, this sounded somewhat cute but some of the things you listed as negatives really turn me off owning an Otter as a pet. Even cats and dogs require a team of people to help you. I guess they'd much rather be coddled and have everything handed to them SMH. This article is accurate and true to the best of the authors knowledge. If you do not live in a warm climate, supplementary heat is necessary for land. They will need to be kept in an enclosure that is at least 10' x 8' x 6'. Not to mention that an otter in a home life most likely is not going to get the water time he needs. Click to attach a photo related to your comment. It is extremely important that you provide diverse enrichment for ottersand all animals for that matter. Dont take my word for it read this! Retrieved on 29 November, 2019. Pool should make up about 30% of the enclosure. EXOTIC ANIMALS ARE NOT PETS. The base can consist of nutritionally-complete cat food. They belong in the wild, where they can swim, run, hunt and live freely. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. Serfass, T., Evans, S. S., & Polechla, P. (2015). The space aka property with a huge pond that I would build a huge enclosure around. slowelevator . Retrieved from. The best enclosure for an otter is outside. Otters can be destructive and are difficult to housetrain. They do not fall under the same laws because they are not technically marine mammals. No, it is not safe or ethical to swim with otters. Also watch for signs of bacterial infection to the wound. This is the smallest. Canadian Arctic Marble Fox as Pets (Are they good pets? But if you do decide to own an otter telling you how to properly care for your new family member. They force them, they are not pets, they are not our possession, they belong to nature! - Repeat the above steps to add more items as needed. Are there any health risks associated with otters? 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. Squirrels as Pets - Is It OK to Have a Pet Squirrel? Dont get an otter just because its adorable , you probably will not be able to care for her . Where can I hold hands with otters? If you were able to find one, the cost of their expertise would be prohibitively expensive to most households. I do not even need to mention you all the reasons why. However, they also mark territory with scent glands at the base of their tail. Non-Domesticated Since these animals aren't domesticated, they're not 100% safe to be around humans full-time without proper training. However, there are few countries which appear to favor having otters as pets. (Complete Budgie Diet Guide). Yes, otters can be trained using positive reinforcement techniques. Otters have very sharp teeth and can turn aggressive quickly, if annoyed. They are the masters of disaster. Another relatively popular pet fad in Japan is the practice of keeping otters as pets. But they are legal in some states. Otters arent happy to be one or two with a child pool and a bathtub ! However, even if you could buy an otter, the cost of owning one would be significant. Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. -They have a lot of personality and can be very affectionate with their owners. Because they are cute is not a valid reason for keeping captive otters, even if it is an enjoyable bonus. In this AnimalWised video, we talk about the lifestyle of these mammals, what types of otter exist and why you should never have them in a. Keeping an otter as a solitary pet can make them very sad. Scent and Body Odour The otters emit an odour and that is the reason they are kept outdoors. Domestication is a process that occurs over generations of selective breeding, and it is not possible to fully domesticate a wild animal like an otter. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. In Australia, it is illegal to keep an otter as a pet. This has spread to the opening of various hedgehog and even owl cafs. However, some US states may allow you to own exotic pet species such as otters. Is it illegal to have an otter as a pet in every country? Nutritionally complete cat food can serve as a base subsistence food. - Once you have that set, click "Add to Cart". Several countries have legislation protecting otters from being kept as pets. 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). That cute, fluffy sea otter you have in your photo? In the wild, they mostly eat fish, while sea-dwelling otters use stones to break open mollusks. Asian small-clawed otter: This is the only otter to have entered the pet trade. Many zoos and aquariums have volunteer programs that allow you to work with otters and other animals. Living with a Pet Otter There are many effects which you should be aware of before getting a pet otter. It is illegal to own most otter species as pets. Obtaining a permit for keeping an otter is difficult, if not impossible. People's Trust for Endangered Species. While otters can form bonds with humans, they still retain their natural instincts and behaviors. They're actually very aggressive animals. 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. Eastern Racer. I though a pair of otters would love to have me as their human (based on youtube videos). While otters are popularized by their appearance in movies and TV shows, many people are unaware that these animals can actually be kept as pets. Otters are accustomed to preying on live animals; hunting is an integral part of an otters life. As we have stated, they are not domestic animals. 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. Negative impact on the wild population: Keeping otters as pets contributes to the decline of wild populations, as individuals are captured from the wild and taken away from their natural habitats. Can otters be released into the wild after being in captivity? West Virginia: Otter ownership is legal in West Virginia with a permit from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Even if it is legal to have an otter as a pet, many exotic pet curators do not go through proper channels to capture and sell animals. It is illegal in all US States to keep this indigenous otter as a pets. Question: are otters legal to own in New York? (8 Best Scorpions Types as Pets), How Often Do Scorpions Eat? You may have seen videos on YouTube of otters playing in people's homes, but often these videos lack context. (2018). In most countries, otters are considered wild animals, and it is illegal to buy or sell them. They are expensive to buy and house. Interestingly, however, otters can be legally obtained for private ownership. Its so sad everyone just dont care about an species wellbeing just for the fact you as a human want to be cool having a otter pet. It is illegal to keep almost all otters as pets in North America, with one exception. Toys are expensive. Heap, C. J., Wright, L., and Andrews, L. (2008). Australia boasts a huge variety of animals. Otters are delightfully cute. Hundreds of thousands of newborn kittens are euthanized at shelters because no one can take care of them. 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. They can be very destructive when they dont get what they want., Strong odor. They are cunning! For this reason, petting and handling are ill-advised. I cannot recommend any otter species as a personal "pet," although a few have maintained a strong bond with their handler their entire life. This is usually at the behest of a larger authority, often governmental. So why don't you see more otters playing in the park on a Sunday afternoon? I have grown up in the redwoods of California. Customer reviews and photos may be available to help you make the right purchase decision! Otter. Otters in this genus are characterized by only partial webbing between their toes, and small, blunt, peg-like claws. Otters and most exotic pets may not like to be restrained, especially with strangers. However, owning an otter as a pet is illegal in many states, so be sure to check local laws before purchasing. Can you touch an otter? Otters are not ferrets; they are not animals that should be kept with the intention of cuddling them. 4. You may not think it, just to look at them, although even when stock-still they are adorable. You can usually visit the otter you have adopted, and some programs offer other perks, like behind-the-scenes tours. Depending on the size, the cage should provide at least 30% water. If you like animals you can cuddle, ferrets are popular domesticated pets and can be a fine substitute for their larger and aquatic brown cousins. On the 4 Asian species 3 are under protection because theyre getting extinct ! They are extremely uncommon, and you would likely need to contact a broker who can track down a breeder or import one. AnimalWised takes a look at the different aspects of domestic otters. These are wild animals who suffer greatly being kept in our houses. Retrieved from. Question: Are otters illegal in western Australia? Answer: No, animals grouped in Carnivora, except wolfdogs, are illegal. Background on Otter Otters eat 15 to 25% of their body weight daily. They require about 2-2, 5 pounds of meat every day. So, if you keep an otter as a pet, be ready to clean the potty of your otter several times during the days from different parts of your home. Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on May 26, 2020: Nixie Nox I guess this also means dalmatians shouldn't be pets then. Most people do not know what they are doing. I couldn't agree more. One thing that I think it's important to note is that ASC otters vocalize constantly in captivity for attention. Question: Are otters legal in Pennsylvania? If i found a fox or coyote i would raise it. The heaviest weigh in at up to 100lbs again, you wouldnt want to get on the wrong side of an animal of that bulk. : They are not illegal to breed. The smell of an otters spraint has been likened variously to that of freshly mown hay to putrefied fish. Can Caracal Kitten be good pets? [removed] As the otters like to make a burrow in the land, you will need to have the right sort of soil ans terrain. Their bite is sharp and piercing. They need a much larger enclosure than a typical dog. They are semi-aquatic animals, and they are well adapted to life on both land and in water, like rivers, streams, freshwater wetlands, and the sea. Retrieved from, Smith, C. (2017). If an otter does attack, they have sharp teeth which can be very dangerous, especially to children. There are owners who have domesticated otters. Otters are protected under the law, and it is illegal to keep them as pets or attempt to care for them yourself. many native mammals have large home-ranges and need to kept in large outdoor enclosures. Comment * document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a42687def9b0fea2fd9b99208cd94d0d" );document.getElementById("ae31964646").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Otters can also dig, so the enclosure will need to have deep walls underground. Nevada: In Nevada, owning an otter is legal as long as you have a permit from the Nevada Department of Wildlife. Question: Are otters legal to have as pets in North Carolina? However, owning an otter requires a permit, which can be obtained from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Thank you for taking the time to look at our personalised otter ceramic money box. An otters diet can vary. 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. Owning native otters is illegal in many countries including the UK, Japan, and the U.S. In most countries, only dogs and miniature horses are recognized as therapy animals. Pet Collars & Leashes Pet Furniture Pet Clothing & Shoes . They werent always domesticated they were rescued or ripped away from thier habitat as well for generations. Otters are being poached from the wild to become pets in Japan and Thailand The Asian small-clawed otter has become a popular pet in Southeast Asia. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2015: e.T12302A21936349. Likely, your otter will spend most of its life in the enclosure. They have been known to destroy furniture with their inquisitive claws and teeth. Otters can give dogs Salmonella, just like humans. Find out in this video all about the Asian Small Clawed Otter, Mr. Chow! They bite and they have glands to produce a vile smell , people get those removed , its cruel. Zoological parks Some zoos have captive breeding programs for otters and may offer the opportunity to adopt one. Let us learn more about this incredible creature as we read this article. Members of the Mustelidae family, otters are related to weasels, badgers, honey badgers, martens, minks, polecats and wolverines. Exotic animals have many guidelines regarding their maintenance in captivity, but possession laws do change depending on the State. Uncovering the Price: How Much Does a Canadian Marble Fox Cost? While it's common to keep dogs and cats as pets, other unique and interesting animals including reptiles, insects, amphibians and terrestrial . 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. You can keep an otter as a pet with the proper permits that allow you to house game animals in captivity. I have to say that most though not all of the comments cause me extreme concern regarding our society today. Reuters Answer: I would guess no, but it might depend on the animal and your particular talent in animal training.
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