Dogs can infect otters with canine distemper and rabies. Their temperaments are unpredictable they are wild animals at heart and can be dangerous, especially if not under supervision near children. Nevertheless, otters are personable, entertaining little creatures, as you would expect from their reputation. From a legal standpoint, owning an otter can be trickier than a skunk, but it is possible. Other animals in the Mustelidae family include the ferret. Required fields are marked *. Even many experienced pet owners would not try to take on an otter. Asian small clawed otters may be kept with a permit. However, they also mark territory with scent glands at the base of their tail. 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. Question: Are otters legal pets in California? 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. They bite and they have glands to produce a vile smell , people get those removed , its cruel. Can Caracal Kitten be good pets? Because Dalmations are high energy dogs that were bred to run 25 miles a day under carriages, and the families couldn't handle them. Many of these facilities have otters on display, and some even have interactive exhibits where you can watch them play and swim. 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. Otters can also be loud and destructive. You can discover many popular videos of them interacting with their caretakers in ways other than direct contact. Additionally, if you live near a river, lake, or other natural body of water, you may be able to spot otters in the wild. Objects, such as hollowed-out lots, well-placed shrubs and trees, and items of cage furniture. I just have no words for it! You are wrong. Otters are very playful and charming and it might seem easy to interact with them or have them as pets. In many states, do you think it's illegal to keep river otters, beavers and many exotic animals as pets? Even if it weren't, keeping wild animals as pets is not a good idea. More on each of these later. They have specific dietary and environmental needs, and not everyone is equipped to meet them. If you have a dog in your home, they can get into fights with your otter., Dogs and otters can transmit diseases to each other as well. It is also something which could see a rise in other countries if the wrong information is spread. They love to swim and dive in shallow waters although there are records of sea otters diving as deep as 100 meters. Interestingly, however, otters can be legally obtained for private ownership. I have grown up in the redwoods of California. The water not only needs to be the right temperature (your local climate may not be able to maintain this correct temperature), but it needs to be free of disease-promoting bacteria. Additionally, otters are social animals and need to live with other otters to thrive. Enjoy an otter stuffed animal However, these permits are usually only granted to licensed wildlife rehabilitators, educators, or researchers. These include many species of native birds (mostly parrots), some captive-bred reptiles and frogs from a licensed breeder or society. 70-80% can be meat-based, and can include chicks, chicken, venison, rabbit, etc. 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. Food is expensive. Fencing needs to extend in-ground because they can also dig out. 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. Can otters be released into the wild after being in captivity? In such a case, the average dog run won't cut it. (Diet and Feeding Frequency). 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. Australia boasts a huge variety of animals. Depending on the size, the cage should provide at least 30% water. Otters are protected under the law, and it is illegal to keep them as pets or attempt to care for them yourself. Question: Are otters legal in Pennsylvania? Are Emperor Scorpions Poisonous? 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. That way, youll get advice direct from the source! North American river otter (or common otter): Found in and along North Americas waterways and coasts, these otters weigh between 11 and 31 lbs (5-14kg). - Repeat the above steps to add more items as needed. This is not a pet for beginners, or the faint-hearted! 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. If you are bit by an otter, you'll need to treat the wound immediately. Messy housemates. Even ferrets are not necessarily easy pets but the first thing I would recommend as a mustelid for a pet. Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on May 26, 2020: Nixie Nox I guess this also means dalmatians shouldn't be pets then. Also watch for signs of bacterial infection to the wound. No, you cannot keep a jackal as a pet. They are all semiaquatic, aquatic or marine mammals, and subsist on diets mainly based on fish and invertebrates, such as mollusks. 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. They are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. They are hard to potty train, and their fast metabolism means they poop a lot, and often. They love water so it is best if you have a body of water nearby for them to frolic in. Otters need space to roam. Here is we collected all that you wanted about Can You Have An Otter As A Pet In Australia Watch free videos. Do otters cuddle? Yes, in some cases, you can adopt an otter. 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. Do otters like to cuddle? Those nails are perfectly manicured, oh yes they are! NO. This breed was thriving in the 12th Century and was used to hunt otters. WOW!! Under provincial and federal law, it is illegal to keep a wild animal, as designated under the BC Wildlife Act, as a pet. All pets have at least some bans on exotic pets, even if they sometimes don't make complete sense. The woman in the video DOES SAY she would 100% NOT recommend an otter as a pet Melissa A Smith (author) from New York on May 27, 2019: Shame on you! Otters can be destructive. 12:34. I guess if someone owns a exotic pet then theyd really need to keep it in a space like theyre natural environment and take really good care of it, not just like its a dog or cat. Otters climb, so a roof or top is required, and they are keen diggers, so any fencing needs to be extended in-ground. The larger the group, the larger the smear. Hi I'm looking to buy a otter I want to know how much they go for. While most countries and states have made keeping a jackal as a pet illegal, others will require you to get . But theyre probably more likely to bite unfamiliar people, like visitors! 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! They arent easily housetrained and theyre very active, social animals. She did nothing wrong shes a vet giving you advice on a animal that people love and right now have are popular. I am currently an ecological project officer at Middlemarch Environmental Ltd. Otters like to climb and dig, so your enclosure will need a top and to be dug into the ground. That is a great way to help, thank you for your comment! However, this is a complex process that requires specialized care and rehabilitation to ensure the otter can survive in its natural environment. These big furry dogs were bred to hunt otters, which were considered as pests back in the day. Nevada: In Nevada, owning an otter is legal as long as you have a permit from the Nevada Department of Wildlife. If you have adopted one, youll need to have the proper habitat for it. Otters can carry and transmit diseases that can be harmful to humans, such as salmonella and giardia. I want a Asian small clawed otter In Arizona ,mesa. Some of the different types of otter species include: The North American river otter is the only river otter found in north of Mexico. Dont get an otter just because its adorable , you probably will not be able to care for her . No matter how much you fantasize about them, you must accept the fact that they are not house pets. All pets have at least some bans on exotic pets, even if they sometimes dont make complete sense. However, like all mustelids that arent domesticated ferrets, they are also challenging to keep, and will require large enclosures and extensive enrichment. Only two species of native mammal can be kept . These have brought significant problems and it is very questionable if exotic animals will fare well in such environments. Answer: You'd have to check with your local authorities, Asian clawed otters should be legal in NC and are the only type I know of that are obtainable. Put a ring on it! Participants must be able to squat/kneel down and stand up quickly and without assistance. No, and you don't want one. Not needing to be walked or taken out for exercise is a big plus for many people. you, have, a, pet, otter, in, australia, can. 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. Let us know in the comments below! 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. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. -They are relatively low-maintenance, compared to other animals. The base can consist of nutritionally-complete cat food. Even you own a river its not enough! Different provinces have different laws. Otters are wild animals and require specialized care. Dont get a pet to show off get a pet because you have heart ! Very few are owned by private individuals and habited in domestic environments. Asian otters require a tropical climate and room to explore and play. What is a good pet? Thanks to hunting, habit destruction and many other human activities, almost all species of otter are either endangered or at least threatened. HubPages is a registered trademark of The Arena Platform, Inc. Other product and company names shown may be trademarks of their respective owners. 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. Otters are accustomed to preying on live animals; hunting is an integral part of an otters life. The lifespan of otters varies depending on the species and their environment. 07:55. But what do you think? 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. Theyll need a dry area as well as a pool. A lot more animals are legal in New York State, as opposed to New York City, where most animals are illegal. In the wild, otters can live up to 10-15 years, while those in captivity may live longer. 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. As such, captive otters need ample space to move around, including a deep enough freshwater source in which to swim, bathe, and socialize. 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. However, mascotism damages biodiversity, since it does not focus on . Money Box, Personalised Otter Money Box, Coin Bank, Otter Money Box, Otter Gifts, Piggy Bank, Savings Jar, Otter Presents. White ceramic money box Personalised. It is illegal to keep almost all otters as pets in North America, with one exception. 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. Hundreds of thousands of newborn kittens are euthanized at shelters because no one can take care of them. Its time to wake up and change, seriously. The local authority's regulations will need to be assessed before it could even be considered. I just wanna make sure. 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. Habitat destruction, hunting, and pollution threaten their conservation. I do not even need to mention you all the reasons why. What is the Difference Between a Donkey, a Mule and an Ass? In some cases, otters that have been in captivity can be released back into the wild. 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! Plumbing fixture you fuck an otter as a pet linear unit australia OTTERS as PETS Reason It's a BAD Thought. Not to mention that an otter in a home life most likely is not going to get the water time he needs. However, owning an otter as a pet is illegal in many states, so be sure to check local laws before purchasing. 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. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists several otter species as either endangered or vulnerable due to habitat loss, pollution, and hunting. (Lifespan Guide). Yes, there are some health risks associated with otters. In Australia, it is illegal to keep an otter as a pet. Eastern Newt. [removed] Cats Domesticated Themselves, Ancient DNA Shows. You may have seen videos on YouTube of otters playing in people's homes, but often these videos lack context. Not all our wants are positive. Otters can also be loud and destructive. Can Dogs Have Whipped Cream? However, there is also DNA evidence to suggest that cats were susceptible to the process of domestication and may have even domesticated themselves[3]. Answer: Probably not. This article is very upfront and honest, however when reading the comments I was overwhelmed with all the ignorance. This article is accurate and true to the best of the authors knowledge. 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. "Oh honey~~~ you shouldn't have! 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. Pet Guide: How to Care for a Pet Emperor Scorpion, Blue Parakeets: 5 Step Complete Care and Color Mutation Guide, How Long Do Budgie or Parakeet Live as Pets? 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. Otters can carry and transmit dangerous bacteria like Salmonella and Streptococcus phocae to you and your other animals. : They are not illegal to breed. Yes, I said scream. Not only do these animals make terrible pets, but they're also nearly impossible to domesticate. Even a pair of otters is not ideal and you will need another 5 m per additional otter. They're very aggressive and bite, and they have very sharp teeth. Please be better than that and get a pet that we breed for generations. Listen people, trying to stifle information will only lead to more of that thing your trying to stop dont be ignorant. 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. If you still want to own this aquatic creature, the biggest obstacle you will face is this: Where can you find one? Otters and most exotic pets may not like to be restrained, especially with strangers. 7 Caracal Cat Facts. There are several websites and online sources where pet otters are sold. Yes, some otter species are endangered. I have seen so many animals killed because of ignorance. Nutritionally complete cat food can serve as a base subsistence food. It is the smallest otter species in the world, reaching a length of just 3 ft, or 90cm. Japan Times. While they are the smallest otter species in the world, Asian small-clawed otters can still grow to 24 inches (61cm). Have you think for A SECOND how do they take them from their habitat?? 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. Unless you are an expert or biologist or zoologist, you should not own an exotic pet. No, otters cannot be domesticated. These animals include bears, primates, big cats, canids, venomous and large reptiles (crocodilians, large constrictor snakes, and large monitor lizards). Additionally, otters can carry diseases that are harmful to humans, which is another reason why they are not suitable as pets. Fun fact: Otters are one of the lesser-known tool users of the animal kingdom. 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. Conservationists may need to keep an otter in captivity for protection, post-rescue or for research purposes. Abigailramirez434@yahoo.com on January 01, 2018: Can I buy a baby otter. The cage should have a decent size that allows the animal adequate room to exercise and forge. Question: are otters legal to own in New York? Smitten. I guess they'd much rather be coddled and have everything handed to them SMH. However, there are few countries which appear to favor having otters as pets. Otters can be destructive and are difficult to housetrain. And for those shaming her in the comments. Keeping an otter in a home is a surefire way to destroy anything valuable you own. Its so sad everyone just dont care about an species wellbeing just for the fact you as a human want to be cool having a otter pet. Much more fun fact: Otter poop has an aroma that has been compared to jasmine tea. I have recently embarked on this career change due to my passion for the natural world and our role within it. They are considered to be very high-maintenance, as you would imagine. Question: Are otters legal to keep as pets in Georgia? In captivity, diets can vary somewhat but need to provide a lot of basic nutrients. In some cases, it may be possible to keep an otter with the proper permits and licenses. Can you own an otter in BC? So, here are some of the reasons you should not keep an otter as a pet: Above all, otters are wild animals that are happiest in their natural habitats and are not meant to be kept in our homes. Not only does this depend on the country, the legality of keeping an otter as a pet will also depend on regions and jurisdiction within a given country. I have to say that most though not all of the comments cause me extreme concern regarding our society today. This could devastate our unique environment. Below is a basic care guide. Can i legaly own a short clawed otter here in Ontario Canada? While they may have a better chance of coexistence with humans if socialized at a young age, it is not easy to predict their actions. Arkansas: Arkansas is one of the few states in the U.S. that allows otter ownership as a pet. Answer: You purchase otters from a breeder or broker. Theyre destructive and will hurt you or your kids and they will get depressed ! Asian small-clawed otter: This is the only otter to have entered the pet trade. However, they will probably warn you against going down the route of otter husbandry, for the reasons I have outlined in this guide. It is very difficult to find anyone who sincerely recommends keeping an otter as a pet. The only way to know for sure would be to contact your state's Department of Agriculture/Fish and Game, and even they sometimes don't know. This can be fed irregularly with a "scatter" method to ward off stereotypic behaviorsomething that occurs when certain animals are fed at specific times. They are cunning! Trained professionals can provide the care and rehabilitation necessary to ensure the otter can be released back into the wild. Otters are very organized in their pooping, and have a designated pooping area per otter community. The Answer May Surprise You! 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. 2023 The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers on this website. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2015: e.T12302A21936349. Additionally, otters are considered indicator species, which means that their presence or absence can indicate the health of the surrounding ecosystem. Otters are so adorable, I can understand why we would want to have them as a pet, but it's not right. I think otters are fun to watch, have exciting personalities and overall give out positive vibes. Thank you for this VERY enlightening article. After reading your expose, I realize that it would not be fair or practical. Otters make loud whistling or screeching noises. Using food dispensing devices available for dogs and cats that must be manipulated to dispense treats. Before considering obtaining a permit to keep an otter, it is important to thoroughly research the requirements and responsibilities involved. 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. If you want to interact with otters, consider visiting a zoo or aquarium or volunteering with a wildlife rehabilitation center. Ive occasionally seen them offered for sale on exoticanimalsforsale.net in the past, but not for a while. You should remove this article and every advise on owning exotic pets. Otters are smelly, loud and extremely active; they have sharp teeth and jaws strong enough to crack open shellfish. These toys are excellent for species that hunt and forge. Some might make an argument that an animal like the cat was not originally domesticated, but now fares well under human co-existence. There is little similar evidence to suggest otters want to do the same. They thrive in social settings within their natural habitat. I completed my post-graduate studies at Nottingham Trent University in 2021, securing an MSc Biodiversity Conservation qualification. Otters are usually kept outdoors because they emit an odor. Space alone is not enough to mimic the otter's natural ecosystem. 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. Are otters good pets? The recommended space for a pair of otters is 60 m, roughly the size of an average apartment. Otters are protected under various laws and regulations, and owning one without proper permits can result in fines and other legal consequences. Their ideal temperature is 75 to 85 degrees. 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? They travel in groups and maintain family ties, for life. You'll also need access to plenty of fish. Poisonous bite symptoms and treatments, 8 AMAZING jumping spiders types you can get as pets, 31 Interesting Axolotl Facts That Will Blow Your Mind. Obtaining a permit for keeping an otter is difficult, if not impossible. Being A Pet Is Not Good For an Otter If you love animals, then please do not keep otters as pets! you, an, otter, as, a, pet, unit, australia, s, can, have, in. 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. Otters can also dig, so the enclosure will need to have deep walls underground. An otters diet can vary in captivity. You need resources to own any pet, much less an exotic one. Patrons for the Utterly Outrageous Otters Encounter must be 12 years and over. 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. More information can be found by referring to the Asian Small-Clawed Otter Husbandry Manual. Its not like they are using them for fur or food. 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. They are cunning and intelligent and predatory and like to know every nook and cranny of their dwelling place. Where can you shake hands with an otter? In some states, it is not illegal to keep an Asian small-clawed otter as a pet. You can usually visit the otter you have adopted, and some programs offer other perks, like behind-the-scenes tours. Otters are considered to be wildlife, so you will need to follow the state guidelines for ownership. Do otters stink? How To Care for A Pet Otter? Retrieved from. 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. The oldest known otter lived to be 21 years old. 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. However, keeping otters in captivity is not the same as keeping an otter as a pet. Question: Are pet otters legal in Canada? They smear their droppings, which they produce constantly to mark their territory. They are so delightful, you could see why people might want to have an otter as a pet. Most people do not know what they are doing. Living with a Pet Otter There are many effects which you should be aware of before getting a pet otter. It is illegal in all US States to keep this indigenous otter as a pets. Not only is a home environment not suitable for the welfare of otters, but this relationship can also have some undesirable consequences for their human owners, as they can be loud, destructive and can inflict nasty bites.