Can You Have a Pet Raccoon in Minnesota?

Raccoons are fascinating creatures, and it's easy to see why someone might want to keep one as a pet. However, there are a few things you should know before you decide to bring a raccoon into your home.

Legality of Owning a Raccoon in Minnesota

The first thing you need to know is that it is illegal to own a raccoon as a pet in Minnesota. This is because raccoons are considered to be wild animals, and it is believed that keeping them in captivity can pose a risk to both the animal and the public.

There are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, you may be able to obtain a permit to keep a raccoon as a pet if you are a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or if you are conducting scientific research. However, these permits are difficult to obtain, and they are only granted in very specific circumstances.

Risks of Keeping a Raccoon as a Pet

Even if you are able to legally obtain a raccoon as a pet, there are still a number of risks that you should be aware of. First, raccoons are wild animals, and they can be unpredictable. They may bite, scratch, or even attack you or your family members.

Second, raccoons carry a number of diseases that can be transmitted to humans. These diseases include rabies, roundworm, and raccoon roundworm. If you are bitten or scratched by a raccoon, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Third, raccoons can be very destructive. They may chew on your furniture, rip up your curtains, and even get into your food. They can also be very noisy, which can make it difficult to sleep or relax in your own home.

Alternatives to Owning a Raccoon as a Pet

If you are interested in having a raccoon in your life, there are a few alternatives to owning one as a pet. For example, you could volunteer at a local wildlife rehabilitation center. This would allow you to work with raccoons and learn more about them without having to take on the responsibility of owning one.

You could also consider watching raccoons in the wild. Raccoons are often seen in parks, forests, and even urban areas. By observing raccoons in their natural habitat, you can learn a lot about their behavior and their role in the ecosystem.

Finally, you could always support organizations that are working to protect raccoons and their habitat.