That being said, exotic animals from overseas could introduce some of the world's most damaging pests and diseases into Australia. Before considering obtaining a permit to keep an otter, it is important to thoroughly research the requirements and responsibilities involved. Even you own a river its not enough! Marvel at the patience that the author must have had. This species is not for beginners. But in Japan, where more than a dozen animal cafes now feature otters, they have . Tremble with Tarka as the sounds of the otter hounds come down the valley. 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. This article is very upfront and honest, however when reading the comments I was overwhelmed with all the ignorance. Even ferrets are not necessarily easy pets but the first thing I would recommend as a mustelid for a pet. . I have grown up in the redwoods of California. The oldest known otter lived to be 21 years old. Click to attach a photo related to your comment. This may not seem very big, but their high metabolism and intelligence mean they can take up a lot of space when they need to, or want to. Online classified ads Sites such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace sometimes have individuals who breed or sell otters. 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. More information can be found by referring to the Asian Small-Clawed Otter Husbandry Manual. As mentioned earlier, they have specific needs that are challenging to meet in a domestic setting. Being A Pet Is Not Good For an Otter If you love animals, then please do not keep otters as pets! 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. WOW!! They are cunning and intelligent and predatory and like to know every nook and cranny of their dwelling place. Otters are smelly, loud and extremely active; they have sharp teeth and jaws strong enough to crack open shellfish. The Asian small-clawed otter is the smallest species of otter. Japan Times. People who like to physically interact with their pets will be disappointed. 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. Asian otters require a tropical climate and room to explore and play. Slightly less fun, but much more gruesome, fact: Male otters have been known to forcibly penetrate baby seals while holding their heads underwater until they drown. Lontra canadensis. 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. Serfass, T., Evans, S. S., & Polechla, P. (2015). Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. They are apex predators that help keep populations of fish and other aquatic creatures in check. 2023 The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers on this website. In the UK, otters are fully protected under Sections 9 and 11 of Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981[2]. Otters like to climb and dig, so your enclosure will need a top and to be dug into the ground. Otters are excellent diggers and have sharp claws and teeth. Otters are protected under the law, and it is illegal to keep them as pets or attempt to care for them yourself. While it's common to keep dogs and cats as pets, other unique and interesting animals including reptiles, insects, amphibians and terrestrial . I thank you for the info! However, there is also DNA evidence to suggest that cats were susceptible to the process of domestication and may have even domesticated themselves[3]. What exotic pets can you own in Australia? And if they do, it could get messy. Theyre destructive and will hurt you or your kids and they will get depressed ! Can Caracal Kitten be good pets? 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). Plus I would never just have one. This is highly recommended if you want to keep your otters happy and in good mental and physical health. : They are not illegal to breed. !" EatRawPotatoes. Otter. 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. 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. (2018). Even if you are granted a permit, you will need to provide proper care for the otter and follow strict regulations. 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. In some states, it is not illegal to keep an Asian small-clawed otter as a pet. Their bite is sharp and piercing. Unless you are an expert or biologist or zoologist, you should not own an exotic pet. 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 have as pets in North Carolina? 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. They travel in groups and maintain family ties, for life. But shipping can be stressful, even if managed by a careful courier, so it is advised to go directly to a zoo, private breeder or animal educator, and enquire in person. Alabama law prohibits any wildlife protected by law being held in captivity (as in kept as pets.) They need attention all the time. I will stick with my donations and wish them love. Because Dalmations are high energy dogs that were bred to run 25 miles a day under carriages, and the families couldn't handle them. In fact with a fast google search youll find that its 100% illegal but it seems theres a twist depending where you live. Sometimes people can't handle the truth. This time around, the slippery creatures sneaked into a home at Serangoon Gardens near Brockhampton Berwick and killed a whole pond full of koi. 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. Aggression in otters is also something important to consider. Living with a Pet Otter There are many effects which you should be aware of before getting a pet otter. However, just like any other wild animal, otters can be dangerous and aggressive. August 20, 2021. The otter is one of the cutest creatures you can imagine. However, owning an otter as a pet is illegal in many states, so be sure to check local laws before purchasing. 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. Otters require specific conditions to live well: a large area to roam (the larger the better); a clean water source in which to swim, bathe and (ideally) catch live prey; and adequate daily nutrition. How Old Do You Have to Be to Work at PetSmart? For many, ferrets make a viable alternative. Yeah I know but some people already own them and they couldnt put them in the wild because they wouldnt survive. Otters mostly eat fish and planktons, but they also feed on the ground with small birds, snails, frogs, or other amphibians. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Yes, there are some health risks associated with otters. Answer: Sea otters are not legal anywhere under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. They require about 2-2, 5 pounds of meat every day. There is a high chance of one of them getting bitten. 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. If you don't provide sufficient environmental enrichment, they will likely find it for themselves, probably among your things. Fun fact: Otters have the thickest coats in the animal kingdom! Non-Domesticated Since these animals aren't domesticated, they're not 100% safe to be around humans full-time without proper training. Maybe they are for you, maybe not! Depending on the size, the cage should provide at least 30% water. I have an affinity for unique companions (my first buddy was a nurse shark that imprinted on me). (Lifespan Guide). We are living in a world full of ignorant, entitled, beings who have little/no respect for anyone or anything. Enjoy an otter stuffed animal Supplement their diet with vegetables, soft-boiled eggs, and insects. The base can consist of nutritionally-complete cat food. If you are bit by an otter, you'll need to treat the wound immediately. I bet thats bigger than you expected! Home / My Animal / Can You Have an Otter as a Pet? Otters are very playful creatures. Smitten. There are 13 types of otter in total, but some are more common than others. Interestingly, however, otters can be legally obtained for private ownership. I was looking into purchasing a friend but after all this I think its not the best for either of us. 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. 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. How much do scorpions costs? You just made that up and got angry for no reason. Many of these facilities have otters on display, and some even have interactive exhibits where you can watch them play and swim. can also be offered to supplement the diet. Using food dispensing devices available for dogs and cats that must be manipulated to dispense treats. In such a case, the average dog run won't cut it. As such, captive otters need ample space to move around, including a deep enough freshwater source in which to swim, bathe, and socialize. They have an oil, waterproof coat and webbed feet, which makes them good swimmers. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Average Lifespan, What Do Parakeets Like to Eat? 70-80% can be meat-based, and can include chicks, chicken, venison, rabbit, etc. Additionally, if you live near a river, lake, or other natural body of water, you may be able to spot otters in the wild. That way, youll get advice direct from the source! Eastern Racer. Otters in this genus are characterized by only partial webbing between their toes, and small, blunt, peg-like claws. 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. 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. This doesnt make them automatically legal in every state. No. But theyre probably more likely to bite unfamiliar people, like visitors! Abigailramirez434@yahoo.com on January 01, 2018: Can I buy a baby otter. If you love animals, then volunteer at shelters, rescues, or an ACA accredited zoo. I though a pair of otters would love to have me as their human (based on youtube videos). You may not think it, just to look at them, although even when stock-still they are adorable. She said yes . Owning a pet otter is considered illegal in several countries including the US, Japan, and the UK. In some cases, it is possible to obtain a permit to own an otter. 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. It is illegal to own most otter species as pets. States where Otters may be legal, New York. They have been known to destroy furniture with their inquisitive claws and teeth. The only reason is if they cannot survive in the wild and need to be protected. Many zoos and aquariums train their otters to participate in educational programs or to exhibit natural behaviors for visitors to see. They love water so it is best if you have a body of water nearby for them to frolic in. They do not like intruders in their space or near their family and will defend accordingly. 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? I know a lady who owns an otter , she displays her on insta with her other exotic pets that rescued and even doing so much for her baby she still sees signs of distress! Otters are wild animals and can be unpredictable, especially if they feel threatened or uncomfortable. Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has previously released a general, but not exhaustive, guideline to keeping otters in captivity[4]. All pets have at least some bans on exotic pets, even if they sometimes dont make complete sense. 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 . How otters are protected. Otters are delightfully cute. In some cases, otters that have been in captivity can be released back into the wild. Such illegal trafficking is detrimental to wild populations of animals worldwide. Most pet otters are actually owned by private zoos and animal educators. Your email address will not be published. Other animals in the Mustelidae family include the ferret. All pets have at least some bans on exotic pets, even if they sometimes don't make complete sense. That cute, fluffy sea otter you have in your photo? Otters are social creatures. Many Asian countries have taken measures to protect them through bans and regulation.. Otters can be destructive. Squirrels as Pets - Is It OK to Have a Pet Squirrel? Given their sensitivity, less than 10% are likely to survive to adoption. Otters are accustomed to preying on live animals; hunting is an integral part of an otters life. Space alone is not enough to mimic the otter's natural ecosystem. As the otters like to make a burrow in the land, you will need to have the right sort of soil ans terrain. 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.". Put a ring on it! It is illegal to keep almost all otters as pets in North America, with one exception. Both these habitats need to be well-tended. Placing food out of reach so the animal needs to work out how to get it down. Otters require a large enclosure with access to water, a specialized diet, veterinary care, and enrichment to keep them mentally and physically healthy. In the wild, they use their strong jaws and sharp teeth to crack open shells and catch fish. AnimalWised takes a look at the different aspects of domestic otters. You should include fish. 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. 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. Captive otters require caging. IM SO SAD READING THESE COMMENTS AND THIS ARTICLE IN GENERAL! This is usually at the behest of a larger authority, often governmental. Not to mention the sad ways in which they are breed, in cages, only to then be separated from their significant others. Keeping an otter as a solitary pet can make them very sad. Much more fun fact: Otter poop has an aroma that has been compared to jasmine tea. Question: Are otters illegal in western Australia? In the wild they live in families of up to 15, which contrasts with their life in captivity. Under provincial and federal law, it is illegal to keep a wild animal, as designated under the BC Wildlife Act, as a pet. Can You Have An Otter As A Pet In Australia. What is a good pet? They can be very destructive when they dont get what they want., Strong odor. (Diet and Feeding Frequency). Is it illegal to have an otter as a pet in every country? Remember to always treat otters with respect and caution, and support conservation efforts to protect these important animals. However, they will probably warn you against going down the route of otter husbandry, for the reasons I have outlined in this guide. Otters are considered to be wildlife, so you will need to follow the state guidelines for ownership. 1. On the 4 Asian species 3 are under protection because theyre getting extinct ! Or someone actually get it and have no proper information on how to care for it? Can you have a pet otter in australia. 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. In so many States in the USA it is illegal to keep a pet otter. Can You Have A Pet Otter In Australia. Pet otters are sought after in many Asian countries like Japan, Thailand, and Malaysia.. Asian small clawed otters may be kept with a permit. Do otters cuddle? This requires a fence which is not climbable and has a horizontal ledge at the top. Weird Pets: Sugar Gliders Sugar gliders are quickly becoming America's new exotic pet darling. Their temperaments are unpredictable they are wild animals at heart and can be dangerous, especially if not under supervision near children. Thank you for this VERY enlightening article. You see, otters are members of the weasel family. When theyre captured and sold as pets, otters are not living their full, natural lives. 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. 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. They are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. They thrive in social settings within their natural habitat. They have sharp teeth, powerful prey drives, and they're little bundles of furious energy in motion whenever they are awake. Unfortunately, we would not be able to list every country where keeping otter as a pet is legal or illegal. I don't approve but it amazes me the animals aren't showing obvious signs of distress. Answer: You purchase otters from a breeder or broker. All goods sold at cash converters are cleaned and tested to ensure you're completely satisfied with your purchase. 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. I want a Asian small clawed otter In Arizona ,mesa. Rage at the cruelty of man. Question: Specifically what is required to own an otter in North Carolina and what type of otter(s) can you have? I spearfish the invasive fish in the eel river and have had wild otters swimming feet away from me eating the fish I kill. 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. This is the otter species Ill be focusing on in this guide, as it is the only one you could, feasibly or otherwise, keep as a pet otter. As a vet you shouldnt explain people what to do if they still wanna keep a wild pet! I think otters are fun to watch, have exciting personalities and overall give out positive vibes. They would come to the nano-reef forums posting spotless 10 gallon tanks loaded with fish including tangs. Also watch for signs of bacterial infection to the wound. After otter hunting was banned in the UK in 1978, their numbers dropped. Conservationists may need to keep an otter in captivity for protection, post-rescue or for research purposes. Additionally, otters require specialized care and a suitable habitat, making them unsuitable as pets for most people. Are Emperor Scorpions Poisonous? Stop being sensitive everyone. Otters arent happy to be one or two with a child pool and a bathtub ! Plumbing fixture you fuck an otter as a pet linear unit australia OTTERS as PETS Reason It's a BAD Thought. Even cats and dogs require a team of people to help you. It is illegal in all US States to keep this indigenous otter as a pets. An otters diet can vary. Patrons for the Utterly Outrageous Otters Encounter must be 12 years and over. Otters arent as cute as you might think. Here are a few to get you started, plus some basic information about how they fit into the otter pet trade: 1. There are only 13 extant species of otter across the world[1]. Some animals are illegal to keep in Queensland. Otters are notoriously difficult to potty train, and even when they are, they may decide to go against their training. That being said there are no breeders , otters are poached from the wild. Asian countries, including Japan, Thailand, and Malaysia, have thriving pet otter industries. In the wild, otters can live up to 10-15 years, while those in captivity may live longer. Hence the name. They are hard to potty train, and their fast metabolism means they poop a lot, and often. However, some US states may allow you to own exotic pet species such as otters. Since otters are not legal to buy, its difficult to give a price range. Yes, in some cases, you can adopt an otter. You can give them a complete cat food as the base, but make sure that over half of their diet is meat-based. In the wild, otters roam over a large area, including terrestrially and aquatically over land and water. Otters can also be loud and destructive. Can you touch an otter? Pet owners must provide proper care, including a secure enclosure, appropriate food and water, and veterinary care. Some of the different types of otter species include: The North American river otter is the only river otter found in north of Mexico. Yes, I said scream. Otters need a tropical climate. Laws change, and this list is not necessarily exhaustive. Some species of otter exist discontinuously in patches unconnected by land because of over-poaching. DeKay's Brown Snake. 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! 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. A certified veterinarian giving advise on how to get an exotic animal to own as a pet? Because they are cute is not a valid reason for keeping captive otters, even if it is an enjoyable bonus. Point is people that invest this kind of money on pets love them. This is not a pet for beginners, or the faint-hearted! Theyre not for us to put them in cute hats ! From a legal standpoint, owning an otter can be trickier than a skunk, but it is possible. Otters are not ferrets; they are not animals that should be kept with the intention of cuddling them. As we have stated, they are not domestic animals. -They are relatively low-maintenance, compared to other animals. They like attention but do not like to play with humans, in the way humans like to interact with pets. 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. But there are many factors to consider. There are several strict guidelines concerning their care and upkeep, but, in theory, you can keep an Asian small-clawed otter as a pet in some states of the USA. In some cases, it may be possible to keep an otter with the proper permits and licenses. How much does a pet otter cost? Question: Where do you go to adopt an otter? Otters are so adorable, I can understand why we would want to have them as a pet, but it's not right. 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. Another relatively popular pet fad in Japan is the practice of keeping otters as pets. Poisonous bite symptoms and treatments, 8 AMAZING jumping spiders types you can get as pets, 31 Interesting Axolotl Facts That Will Blow Your Mind. Retrieved on 29 November, 2019. 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. Members of the Mustelidae family, otters are related to weasels, badgers, honey badgers, martens, minks, polecats and wolverines.
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