In captivity, diets can vary somewhat but need to provide a lot of basic nutrients. How otters are protected. Japan Times. They can cause damage. They travel in groups and maintain family ties, for life. They smear their droppings, which they produce constantly to mark their territory. Yes, in some cases, you can adopt an otter. You need resources to own any pet, much less an exotic one. Thanks to hunting, habit destruction and many other human activities, almost all species of otter are either endangered or at least threatened. Retrieved on 29 November, 2019. But there is one species, the Asian small-clawed otter, which could be legal in some states. Rejoice in the sheer exuberance of otter life. 2023 The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers on this website. Fortunately, many governments and jurisdictions have created contingencies to try to protect these animals. However, even if you could buy an otter, the cost of owning one would be significant. You can keep an otter as a pet with the proper permits that allow you to house game animals in captivity. However, there are few countries which appear to favor having otters as pets. Who knew? Finger Monkey Lifespans: How Long Do Pygmy Marmosets Live as Pets? A certified veterinarian giving advise on how to get an exotic animal to own as a pet? Additionally, otters can have sharp teeth and claws that can cause injury. They also mark their territory by smearing their feces around, which contributes to the odor.. They are so delightful, you could see why people might want to have an otter as a pet. More on each of these later. seni, var, bir, pet, otter, iinde, Avustralya, olabilir. Find out in this video all about the Asian Small Clawed Otter, Mr. Chow! Fun fact: Otters have the thickest coats in the animal kingdom! While otters can form bonds with humans, they still retain their natural instincts and behaviors. The humble, or not so humble, otter is one of the most widespread mammals on Earth. Required fields are marked *. 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. Find Out Now! Question: Are otters legal in Pennsylvania? The bad news is that this leaves them vulnerable to poachers, who hunt them for their velvety fur. They have high exercise and socialization needs and require a large living space with access to water. Cage should have a top and fencing needs to extend in-ground. Tremble with Tarka as the sounds of the otter hounds come down the valley. Additionally, if you live near a river, lake, or other natural body of water, you may be able to spot otters in the wild. All rights reserved. Question: Could an otter, raised from a young pup, make a unique and workable therapy animal or visiting moral animal for elderly / disabled / children? However, this is highly unethical and illegal, so be cautious and thoroughly research the seller and the legality of owning an otter as a pet before making a purchase. 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! However, some US states may allow you to own exotic pet species such as otters. Otters make loud whistling or screeching noises. Otters are excellent diggers and have sharp claws and teeth. Otters are protected under various laws and regulations, and owning one without proper permits can result in fines and other legal consequences. So why don't you see more otters playing in the park on a Sunday afternoon? As the otters like to make a burrow in the land, you will need to have the right sort of soil ans terrain. Scent and Body Odour The otters emit an odour and that is the reason they are kept outdoors. some native mammals, particularly wallabies and kangaroos, are prone to diseases caused by the stress of contact with humans, domestic pets (cats and dogs) and noise. - Once you have that set, click "Add to Cart". Otters do climb, adding to the complexity of the habitat, so a top is required. Even many experienced pet owners would not try to take on an otter. Pet owners must provide a secure and appropriate habitat, as well as proper nutrition and veterinary care. After otter hunting was banned in the UK in 1978, their numbers dropped. Answer: You purchase otters from a breeder or broker. 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. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. Even if it weren't, keeping wild animals as pets is not a good idea. Online classified ads Sites such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace sometimes have individuals who breed or sell otters. This article is very upfront and honest, however when reading the comments I was overwhelmed with all the ignorance. It is illegal to keep almost all otters as pets in North America, with one exception. Sea otter: Illegal to own under the Marine Animal Protection Act. Otters arent as cute as you might think. They prefer flat stones that are as wide as a large orange. In such a case, the average dog run won't cut it. 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. Or in a zoo? I can only make educated guesses as to where they might be legal due to researching what isn't legal. Food is expensive. In so many States in the USA it is illegal to keep a pet otter. Pet owners must provide proper care, including a secure enclosure, appropriate food and water, and veterinary care. 1. Its various extant subspecies, numbering a total of 13, can be found on almost every continent (its too cold in Antarctica, apparently), and come in a range of shapes and sizes, and levels of ferocity. Pet Collars & Leashes Pet Furniture Pet Clothing & Shoes . Are there any research programs to help repopulate endangered species of otters such as the Congo clawless otter which so little is known about. The recommended space for a pair of otters is 60 m, roughly the size of an average apartment. Unfortunately, this fad has lead to the illegal smuggling of otters into Japan[6]. It is the most common type trapped and sold as pets. They deserve to be out in the world in environments which we do't interfere with. But if you do decide to own an otter telling you how to properly care for your new family member. Well address some of the most frequently asked questions about buying an otter. While they are the smallest otter species in the world, Asian small-clawed otters can still grow to 24 inches (61cm). Average Lifespan, What Do Parakeets Like to Eat? All states have bans on at least some exotic pets, even states that are notorious for having lax pet laws. It is illegal in all US States to keep this indigenous otter as a pets. Smitten. Otters arent happy to be one or two with a child pool and a bathtub ! For many, ferrets make a viable alternative. That cute, fluffy sea otter you have in your photo? 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! There is a high chance of one of them getting bitten. More otters smuggled for sale in Japan as demand as pets grows. If you love animals, then volunteer at shelters, rescues, or an ACA accredited zoo. These include many species of native birds (mostly parrots), some captive-bred reptiles and frogs from a licensed breeder or society. Guess what, they are picked off by predators within 3 days. They are all semiaquatic, aquatic or marine mammals, and subsist on diets mainly based on fish and invertebrates, such as mollusks. Otters are not ferrets; they are not animals that should be kept with the intention of cuddling them. Otters can carry and transmit dangerous bacteria like Salmonella and Streptococcus phocae to you and your other animals. You should be ashamed Mellissa! However, this is a complex process that requires specialized care and rehabilitation to ensure the otter can survive in its natural environment. Can You Have A Pet Otter In Australia. ), Are jumping spiders friendly or harmful to us? Hundreds of thousands of newborn kittens are euthanized at shelters because no one can take care of them. Otters can be legally obtained for private ownership. Answer: Yes, but you would have to be granted a permit, which isn't easy. How Old Do You Have to Be to Work at PetSmart? The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2015: e.T12302A21936349. Other otter species, like the ocean otter and giant otter, can reach lengths of 6 ft (1.8m), as long as a tall human. Before they used to be chased by humans for destroying rice cultures but now the parents are killed at first sight to get the youngs to make money! While most countries and states have made keeping a jackal as a pet illegal, others will require you to get . You may not think it, just to look at them, although even when stock-still they are adorable. But there are many factors to consider. Nutritionally complete cat food can serve as a base subsistence food. Not all countries have strict protection laws and many otter populations are already in decline. No, it is not safe or ethical to swim with otters. But would only ever do it if I had the money #1, a lot of money. When you see horror movies about canibbals or something you feel freaked out do you eat meat how do you think the cows,pigs and lambs feel and so on. 5 Step Pacman Frog Care: Are they good pets? Most people do not know what they are doing. 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. And then you need to give all your time. . When otters are agitated or stressed they can bite and become aggressive. -They are relatively low-maintenance, compared to other animals. 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. Do otters like to cuddle? I was headstrong about owning an otter and this article actually dissuaded me people are insane nowadays, would you rather there I have not come across this information then got an otter and regretted? 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. You just made that up and got angry for no reason. Supplement their diet with vegetables, soft-boiled eggs, and insects. Other members of this family include weasels, skunks, and ferrets. 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. In the wild, they use their strong jaws and sharp teeth to crack open shells and catch fish. Theyre not for us to publish to get likes ! Hence the name. There are several websites and online sources where pet otters are sold. Even if you are granted a permit, you will need to provide proper care for the otter and follow strict regulations. Crested Gecko Enclosures: Whats the Best Choice? The larger the group, the larger the smear. Even ferrets are not necessarily easy pets but the first thing I would recommend as a mustelid for a pet. In the UK, otters are fully protected under Sections 9 and 11 of Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981[2]. About. 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. Both these habitats need to be well-tended. An otter needs to have the life he was intended to have and need to be around their own kind in order to thrive. 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. 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. Even with the best intentions we cant give them enough , enough playtimes, enough nutrition.l enough everything. 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. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/otters-protection-surveys-and-licences#how-otters-are-protected, http://www.otterspecialistgroup.org/Library/TaskForces/OCT/OCT_ASO_Husbandry_Guidelines_Summary.pdf, https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2018/07/17/national/otters-smuggled-sale-japan-demand-pets-grows/#.XeDfjZNKiUl, https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/12302/21936349, https://ptes.org/get-informed/facts-figures/otter/. Owning a pet otter is considered illegal in several countries including the US, Japan, and the UK. Another relatively popular pet fad in Japan is the practice of keeping otters as pets. 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. 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). What exotic pets can you own in Australia? But in Japan, where more than a dozen animal cafes now feature otters, they have . Can you have a pet otter in australia. As mentioned earlier, they have specific needs that are challenging to meet in a domestic setting. It is very difficult to find anyone who sincerely recommends keeping an otter as a pet. Otters should not live in a domestic household, and a demand for pet otters helps drives illegal animal trade and decimate wild populations. Such illegal trafficking is detrimental to wild populations of animals worldwide. Yeah I know but some people already own them and they couldnt put them in the wild because they wouldnt survive. She said yes . This is usually at the behest of a larger authority, often governmental. They do not fall under the same laws because they are not technically marine mammals. Otters are carnivores and primarily eat fish, shellfish, and other aquatic creatures. Remember to always treat otters with respect and caution, and support conservation efforts to protect these important animals. The upfront cost of purchasing an Asian small-clawed otter is approximately $4,000 unaffordable for most individuals. Otters are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), and their trade is heavily regulated. In the U.S. there is only one otter species that can be kept in the home so to speak - the Asian Short-clawed Otter . Different provinces have different laws. It is also something which could see a rise in other countries if the wrong information is spread. How much do scorpions costs? 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. Vegetables, insects, crayfish, monkey nuts, soft-boiled eggs, etc. Remember when 101 Dalmations came out and everyone ran and got a Dalmation and thousands got dumped at animal shelters? That includes all game animals, birds and furbearers, including bear, beaver, coyote, deer,. What is the Difference Between a Donkey, a Mule and an Ass? They like attention but do not like to play with humans, in the way humans like to interact with pets. If left untrained, they can leave many droppings around the house. Since otters are not legal to buy, its difficult to give a price range. How Old Do You Have to Be to Work at Petco? Not to mention the sad ways in which they are breed, in cages, only to then be separated from their significant others. Not having enough entertainment or putting stress on your pet otter can also lead to destructive, aggressive behavior. West Virginia: Otter ownership is legal in West Virginia with a permit from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. 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. The space aka property with a huge pond that I would build a huge enclosure around. Are otters legal pets? 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. Otters have an odor that lingers around them. Here are several reasons why: Legal restrictions: Otters are protected by law in many countries and it is illegal to keep them as pets. I understand how people strongly oppose having otters as pets. Otters can also be loud and destructive. 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. Veterinarians are well trained in looking after a variety of animals, but most will not have the specific training required to look after the health and well-being of an otter. How much does a pet otter cost? Otters are accustomed to preying on live animals; hunting is an integral part of an otters life. You can supplement the diet with monkey nuts, soft-boiled eggs, crayfish and insects, introduced at irregular intervals with a scatter method. Using food dispensing devices available for dogs and cats that must be manipulated to dispense treats. Asian small-clawed otters - the only otter sometimes allowed as pets - need a mixture of land and water in their enclosure. I guess they'd much rather be coddled and have everything handed to them SMH. I couldn't agree more. Otters are considered to be wildlife, so you will need to follow the state guidelines for ownership. She did nothing wrong shes a vet giving you advice on a animal that people love and right now have are popular. I completed my post-graduate studies at Nottingham Trent University in 2021, securing an MSc Biodiversity Conservation qualification. My dogs have full access to run outside and play in the backyard but they choose to stay inside on a bed watching tv and eatting treats. You may be asked to demonstrate this. This is the smallest. Eastern Racer. Thank you for this VERY enlightening article. One of the few ways to keep an armadillo as a pet is to be someone who holds an Animal Breeding License, but obtaining one is difficult. Those nails are perfectly manicured, oh yes they are! You will need to provide a heated area for them when temperatures drop below 50F. Given their sensitivity, less than 10% are likely to survive to adoption. Just saying because you want an exotic pet doesnt make you a bad person. 12:16. However, a recent uptick of otter attacks has caused distress to many fish owners across the island. Dv Kaufman's Adventures 44.5K subscribers OTTERS AS PETS?!? please can someone help. However, owning an otter as a pet is illegal in many states, so be sure to check local laws before purchasing. 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. Habitat destruction, hunting, and pollution threaten their conservation. Keeping an otter as a solitary pet can make them very sad. -They have a lot of personality and can be very affectionate with their owners. Asian Small-Clawed Otter Husbandry Manual. Space alone is not enough to mimic the otter's natural ecosystem. I will stick with my donations and wish them love. They thrive in social settings within their natural habitat. What is a good pet? Dont encourage this craziness! I think otters are fun to watch, have exciting personalities and overall give out positive vibes. Messy housemates. No. All those things you find cute on IG are them showing their distress ! I want a Asian small clawed otter In Arizona ,mesa. Nevada: In Nevada, owning an otter is legal as long as you have a permit from the Nevada Department of Wildlife. hairs per square inch. Unless you are an expert or biologist or zoologist, you should not own an exotic pet. Also do you own any dogs or cats? This has spread to the opening of various hedgehog and even owl cafs. A otter is a species protected by both state and federal wildlife laws, and it is illegal to take them from the wild. The fact that these otters require a tropical climate may be why they tend to be kept mostly by zoo professionals. Otters require a large enclosure with access to water, a specialized diet, veterinary care, and enrichment to keep them mentally and physically healthy. You can have 2 of each of the following animals: American Bullfrog. 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. For example, most states have bans on big cats, primates, and bears, but in states that allow more surprising species as pets, the majority of counties and towns dont allow it. You see, otters are members of the weasel family. Quite possibly. 7080% of the diet can be meat-based and can consist of day-old chicks, chicken, venison, rabbit, etc. More information can be found by referring to the Asian Small-Clawed Otter Husbandry Manual. They are wild animals and do not like to be restrained., Owning an otter is a big commitment. Because I love otters. Complex care requirements: Otters are not domesticated animals and require specialized care. Question: Are otters legal to have as pets in North Carolina? Do pet otters smell? Otters are social creatures. 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. If you want to see otters, your best bet is to visit a zoo or aquarium. North Carolina: Otter ownership is legal in North Carolina with a permit from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Squirrels as Pets - Is It OK to Have a Pet Squirrel? However, keeping otters in captivity is not the same as keeping an otter as a pet. There are some 83% of mammals, 89% of reptiles, 90% of fish and insects and 93% of amphibians that inhabit the continent are endemic to Australia. 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. Exotic animals have many guidelines regarding their maintenance in captivity, but possession laws do change depending on the State. 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! You can discover many popular videos of them interacting with their caretakers in ways other than direct contact. What states are otters legal in? Yes, otters can be trained using positive reinforcement techniques. Because they are cute is not a valid reason for keeping captive otters, even if it is an enjoyable bonus. Some might make an argument that an animal like the cat was not originally domesticated, but now fares well under human co-existence. Participants must be able to squat/kneel down and stand up quickly and without assistance. Being A Pet Is Not Good For an Otter If you love animals, then please do not keep otters as pets! 11:06. Uncovering the Price: How Much Does a Canadian Marble Fox Cost? The smell of an otters spraint has been likened variously to that of freshly mown hay to putrefied fish. Half the houses in my neighborhood can't even take care of their own dogs right. To stay warm in the water for so long, otters have incredibly thick fur, and very fast metabolisms, which means they need to eat a lot 20% of their body weight per day, during certain months. They have been known to destroy furniture with their inquisitive claws and teeth. Many Asian countries have taken measures to protect them through bans and regulation.. This requires a fence which is not climbable and has a horizontal ledge at the top. Ive occasionally seen them offered for sale on exoticanimalsforsale.net in the past, but not for a while. As a vet you shouldnt explain people what to do if they still wanna keep a wild pet! Note: All information comes from online resources and personal knowledge. Captive otters require caging. Theyre not for us to put them in cute hats ! These animals are also preys in the wild and keeping these animals as pet increase their chances of survival greatly. However, it is important to remember that even trained otters are still wild animals and should be treated with respect and caution. 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. The food they eat will also need to be considered with an appropriate diet and at least 350 g of food per day for each animal. In the wild, they feed on mostly invertebrates and occasionally frogs. Your bathtub or pool cant substitute for the large bodies of water otters are naturally found in. Unless you do what Joseph Carter does for his mink to keep them busy, I wouldn't recommend them as pets to most people. Their ideal temperature is 75 to 85 degrees. If the otter is not able to be released, it may be possible to adopt it as a pet. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. 25 million cats and dogs are euthanized in the US each year. They do not like intruders in their space or near their family and will defend accordingly. 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 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. In some cases, it is possible to obtain a permit to own an otter. 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. While sea and river otters are deemed federally illegal due to the Marine Mammal Protection Act, Asian small-clawed otters are not covered by the same level of protection.
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