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There are owners who have domesticated otters. Fun fact: Otters are one of the lesser-known tool users of the animal kingdom. Eastern Newt. The lifespan of otters varies depending on the species and their environment. I have seen so many animals killed because of ignorance. 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. I think otters are fun to watch, have exciting personalities and overall give out positive vibes. Maximum of two people per encounter. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has previously released a general, but not exhaustive, guideline to keeping otters in captivity[4]. Crested Gecko Enclosures: Whats the Best Choice? Additionally, there may be wildlife rehabilitation centers in your area that need volunteers to help care for injured or orphaned otters. However, a recent uptick of otter attacks has caused distress to many fish owners across the island. This classification means that only native otters are legal which includes the river otter. Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. 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. Living inside comes with many challenges, like cleaning up otter feces and keeping your furniture intact. It is illegal to keep almost all otters as pets in North America, with one exception. I have recently embarked on this career change due to my passion for the natural world and our role within it. Smell may seem a minor consideration, but should not be overlooked. 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. 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. That includes all game animals, birds and furbearers, including bear, beaver, coyote, deer,. Cats Domesticated Themselves, Ancient DNA Shows. 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. If you believe your state should be on this list, check with your local state department. Listen people, trying to stifle information will only lead to more of that thing your trying to stop dont be ignorant. In most countries, only dogs and miniature horses are recognized as therapy animals. 11:06. Several countries have legislation protecting otters from being kept as pets. They do not like intruders in their space or near their family and will defend accordingly. All pets have at least some bans on exotic pets, even if they sometimes don't make complete sense. Otters can also be loud and destructive. This is the way for all animals, but the fundamental problem is that wild animals are better off wild, no matter how well we think we can look after them. The ideal temperature for their pool is 7585F, but they also need a dry area because if they are wet all the time, they can develop health issues. Interestingly, however, otters can be legally obtained for private ownership. After reading your expose, I realize that it would not be fair or practical. Smitten. If they are constantly wet, they can develop health conditions.. Otters can also be loud and destructive. American Toad. They arent easily housetrained and theyre very active, social animals. Even if it weren't, keeping wild animals as pets is not a good idea. 7 Caracal Cat Facts. Some species of otter exist discontinuously in patches unconnected by land because of over-poaching. A certified veterinarian giving advise on how to get an exotic animal to own as a pet? While it's common to keep dogs and cats as pets, other unique and interesting animals including reptiles, insects, amphibians and terrestrial . This can be fed irregularly with a "scatter" method to ward off stereotypic behaviorsomething that occurs when certain animals are fed at specific times. The following is a list of reasons why you shouldn't. 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. 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. 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. Question: Specifically what is required to own an otter in North Carolina and what type of otter(s) can you have? In the wild, they feed on mostly invertebrates and occasionally frogs. I though a pair of otters would love to have me as their human (based on youtube videos). She did nothing wrong shes a vet giving you advice on a animal that people love and right now have are popular. 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? The space aka property with a huge pond that I would build a huge enclosure around. Dv Kaufman's Adventures 44.5K subscribers OTTERS AS PETS?!? However, it is important to remember that even trained otters are still wild animals and should be treated with respect and caution. Otters are carnivores and primarily eat fish, shellfish, and other aquatic creatures. You may not think it, just to look at them, although even when stock-still they are adorable. 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! Retrieved from. Otters and most exotic pets may not like to be restrained, especially with strangers. Otters are protected under the law, and it is illegal to keep them as pets or attempt to care for them yourself. Expenses such as those mentioned above are not the only detrimental factors in keeping an otter as a pet. 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. And then you need to give all your time. They will need to be kept in an enclosure that is at least 10' x 8' x 6'. Guests must be fit and healthy, have full motor skill and intellectual capabilities. However, owning an otter requires a permit, which can be obtained from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. 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. They are carnivores with a high metabolic rate, requiring them to consume 20% of their body weight per day. 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. Some introduced animals, have become serious pests in Queensland that attack pets and damage crops, the environment and the economy. Its amazing and I have always dreamed of having one as a pet. What states are otters legal in? They have exotic pet stores with meerkats in rabbit cages. 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 in this genus are characterized by only partial webbing between their toes, and small, blunt, peg-like claws. Otters are considered to be wildlife, so you will need to follow the state guidelines for ownership. What exotic pets can you own in Australia? Do otters like to cuddle? About. All those things you find cute on IG are them showing their distress ! Question: How much does a pet otter cost? The Asian small-clawed otter is the smallest species of otter. In some states, it is not illegal to keep an Asian small-clawed otter as a pet. As the otters like to make a burrow in the land, you will need to have the right sort of soil ans terrain. (Diet and Feeding Frequency). 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. 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). Much more fun fact: Otter poop has an aroma that has been compared to jasmine tea. Otters climb, so a roof or top is required, and they are keen diggers, so any fencing needs to be extended in-ground. Find Out Now! 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. They do not fall under the same laws because they are not technically marine mammals. Prohibited mammals, reptiles and amphibians You are not allowed to keep prohibited animals as a pet in Queensland. They can have up to 1 million (thats 1 with six zeros!) Here are a few to get you started, plus some basic information about how they fit into the otter pet trade: 1. More information can be found by referring to the Asian Small-Clawed Otter Husbandry Manual. Exotic animals have many guidelines regarding their maintenance in captivity, but possession laws do change depending on the State. However, pet owners must meet strict requirements, including providing a secure and appropriate habitat, proper nutrition, and veterinary care. But if you do decide to own an otter telling you how to properly care for your new family member. Remember when 101 Dalmations came out and everyone ran and got a Dalmation and thousands got dumped at animal shelters? 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. In the wild, otters roam over a large area, including terrestrially and aquatically over land and water. In conclusion, it is not advisable to keep otters as pets. Otters are not ferrets; they are not animals that should be kept with the intention of cuddling them. Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on May 26, 2020: Nixie Nox I guess this also means dalmatians shouldn't be pets then. 7080% of the diet can be meat-based and can consist of day-old chicks, chicken, venison, rabbit, etc. Their temperaments are unpredictable they are wild animals at heart and can be dangerous, especially if not under supervision near children. 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. Question: Where do you go to adopt an otter? Keeping an otter in a home is a surefire way to destroy anything valuable you own. : They are not illegal to breed. Additionally, otters are considered indicator species, which means that their presence or absence can indicate the health of the surrounding ecosystem. That being said there are no breeders , otters are poached from the wild. Question: Are otters legal pets in California? Money Box, Personalised Otter Money Box, Coin Bank, Otter Money Box, Otter Gifts, Piggy Bank, Savings Jar, Otter Presents. Yes, there are some health risks associated with otters. They are cunning! 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. I tend to state that theres no such thing as a good or bad petit depends on what youre looking for in an animal. Are there any health risks associated with otters? Otters have an odor that lingers around them. I do not even need to mention you all the reasons why. Trained professionals can provide the care and rehabilitation necessary to ensure the otter can be released back into the wild. Theyre very intelligent and need so much stimulation , just like an African parrot but maybe 10 times more. Otters can be destructive and are difficult to housetrain. They are all semiaquatic, aquatic or marine mammals, and subsist on diets mainly based on fish and invertebrates, such as mollusks. They werent always domesticated they were rescued or ripped away from thier habitat as well for generations. The recommended space for a pair of otters is 60 m, roughly the size of an average apartment. The otter is not a domesticated animal species. Tremble with Tarka as the sounds of the otter hounds come down the valley. They tend to attack when they are intimidated. Dont encourage this craziness! Then there are, of course, ferrets. !" EatRawPotatoes. Canadian Arctic Marble Fox as Pets (Are they good pets? Answer: I would guess no, but it might depend on the animal and your particular talent in animal training. You can give them a complete cat food as the base, but make sure that over half of their diet is meat-based. Otters are very playful creatures. 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. Because they are cute is not a valid reason for keeping captive otters, even if it is an enjoyable bonus. For many, ferrets make a viable alternative. As mentioned earlier, they have specific needs that are challenging to meet in a domestic setting. I have grown up in the redwoods of California. No, it is not safe or ethical to swim with otters. The only reason is if they cannot survive in the wild and need to be protected. I couldn't agree more. Licences to possess, sell or capture otters European protected species: apply for a licence to possess them (A37 and LR37) 8 March 2022 Form Licence to possess plants and animals for scientific. Very few are owned by private individuals and habited in domestic environments. Your bathtub or pool cant substitute for the large bodies of water otters are naturally found in. Not all countries have strict protection laws and many otter populations are already in decline. Additionally, otters are social animals and need to live with other otters to thrive. Abigailramirez434@yahoo.com on January 01, 2018: Can I buy a baby otter. After otter hunting was banned in the UK in 1978, their numbers dropped. 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. It is important to work with trained professionals and follow guidelines for releasing otters back into the wild. Space alone is not enough to mimic the otter's natural ecosystem. Otters do climb, adding to the complexity of the habitat, so a top is required. All you say and recommend is ethically against your Vet degree! The best enclosure for an otter is outside. They have specific dietary and environmental needs, and not everyone is equipped to meet them. 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. If the otter is not able to be released, it may be possible to adopt it as a pet. Call state wildlife officials to confirm. Quite possibly. But they are legal in some states. How otters are protected. What Does It Cost to Adopt a Pygmy Marmoset (or Finger, How To Setup a Red-eared Slider Turtle Tank, How Long Do Red-eared Slider Turtles Live? Also They really have an annoying squeal. A lot more animals are legal in New York State, as opposed to New York City, where most animals are illegal. Otters are accustomed to preying on live animals; hunting is an integral part of an otters life. It is also something which could see a rise in other countries if the wrong information is spread. These animals include bears, primates, big cats, canids, venomous and large reptiles (crocodilians, large constrictor snakes, and large monitor lizards). Many zoos and aquariums have volunteer programs that allow you to work with otters and other animals. Finger Monkey Lifespans: How Long Do Pygmy Marmosets Live as Pets? It is illegal in all US States to keep this indigenous otter as a pets. While they were not the first country to open a pet caf (this was Taiwan's honor), the idea gained significant popularity there. 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. 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 . All 13 species of otters are wild animals, extremely sensitive to environmental changes, and are a marking, latrine species. 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. 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/. When theyre captured and sold as pets, otters are not living their full, natural lives. They deserve to be out in the world in environments which we do't interfere with. It is very difficult to find anyone who sincerely recommends keeping an otter as a 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. Otters mostly eat fish and planktons, but they also feed on the ground with small birds, snails, frogs, or other amphibians. Home / My Animal / Can You Have an Otter as a Pet? 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. The name otter derives from the Old English word otor which, alongside other Indo-European cognates, ultimately stems from the root word *wdr, which, you guessed it, gives us the modern word water. Asian small-clawed otters are one of 13 species of otters in the carnivore family Mustelidae. This, we can presume, is because they were always found at the waters edge, be it at the seaside (sea otters), riverside (river otters), clambering over brooks (Asian small-clawed otter) or in The Guianas (giant 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. However, mascotism damages biodiversity, since it does not focus on . Yes, I said scream. Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on December 16, 2018: Can you have an Asian small clawed otter as a pet in the state of Georgia. Or in a zoo? Here are some pros and cons to consider: Pros: -Otters are very playful and active, which can make them fun pets. If you don't provide sufficient environmental enrichment, they will likely find it for themselves, probably among your things. most native mammals are nocturnal and some, such as possums and gliders, can only be kept . Remember to always treat otters with respect and caution, and support conservation efforts to protect these important animals. It's scary to think of what it'll be like in just 5-10 more years. West Virginia: Otter ownership is legal in West Virginia with a permit from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Most people do not know what they are doing. 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. Is it illegal to have an otter as a pet in every country? They need plenty of space and care., An otters enclosure needs to be large enough for them to get exercise and forage. Otters are smelly, loud and extremely active; they have sharp teeth and jaws strong enough to crack open shellfish. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2015: e.T12302A21936349. They can be very destructive when they dont get what they want., Strong odor. How much do scorpions costs? However, this is a complex process that requires specialized care and rehabilitation to ensure the otter can survive in its natural environment. Live animals and animal products from overseas could introduce some of the world's most damaging pests and diseases into Australia.