Can You Have a Pet Raccoon in PA?
Raccoons are often seen as cute and cuddly animals, but they can also be destructive and dangerous. As a result, there are many regulations in place regarding the ownership of raccoons as pets. In Pennsylvania, the laws are particularly strict, and it is illegal to own a pet raccoon without a permit.
What Are the Laws Regarding Pet Raccoons in PA?
In Pennsylvania, it is illegal to possess, import, export, or release a raccoon without a permit from the Pennsylvania Game Commission. This permit is only available to certain individuals, such as wildlife rehabilitators and educational institutions. Even with a permit, it is illegal to keep a raccoon as a pet in a residential area.
There are several reasons for these laws. Raccoons can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans, such as rabies and roundworm. They can also be destructive to property, and they can be aggressive if they feel threatened.
What Are the Penalties for Owning a Pet Raccoon in PA?
The penalties for owning a pet raccoon in PA can be severe. You could be fined up to $1,000 and/or sentenced to up to 30 days in jail. Your raccoon could also be confiscated and euthanized.
What Should You Do If You Find a Raccoon?
If you find a raccoon, the best thing to do is to leave it alone. If the raccoon is injured or sick, you can contact a wildlife rehabilitator. However, it is important to remember that raccoons are wild animals and should not be approached or handled by humans.
Conclusion
In Pennsylvania, it is illegal to own a pet raccoon without a permit. The penalties for owning a pet raccoon can be severe. If you find a raccoon, the best thing to do is to leave it alone.
Declaration: All article resources on this website, unless otherwise specified or labeled, are collected from online resources. If the content on this website infringes on the legitimate rights and interests of the original author, you can contact this website to delete it.
