Another thing you can do is to sign a petition for legalizing ferrets. If you own a ferret in California, you'll most likely face fines between $500 and $10,000. California recently became the first state to prohibit all pet stores from selling dogs and cats that dont come from shelters to help shut down unlicensed breeding facilities. This means you cannot import, transport, and even possess one without a legal permit. Source . 1. Prairie dogs are considered exotic animals and owning them in California and most other states is illegal. Ferrets are illegal in New Zealand. In Hawaii, housing a ferret comes with a hefty price. Besides, in the United States, each state is a sovereign entity and may enact its own laws, if the laws dont violate the Federal Constitution or the rights guaranteed in the Bill of Rights. The rodents arent dangerous, just weird looking, said Department of Fish and Game spokesman Andrew Hughan. Firstly, these ferrets were working ferrets, which means that they were trained and released on purpose to attack rabbits. However, if someone notifies the department about your ferret, someone could come and take it away. having a pet ferret can lead to monetary penalties, criminal prosecution, and even prison time. You need a permit from the California Department of Fish and Game to keep ferrets as pets. You can get a permit for medical research and other unique circumstances and not for home possession. Despite the climate in the northern territory being more favorable for ferrets, the northern territorys government considers ferrets aggressive to human beings. Restricted Species permits come with required, nonrefundable fees, including $130.30 for all new permits and $67.47 for all permit renewals or amendments to existing permits. You can only possess or keep a monkey or other primates if youre qualified and with a legal permit for specific purposes such as medical research or training them to perform in film productions. Or all three with a two story ferret nation cage for 1000.. Ferret, California Los Angeles $350 Also, ferret fur-farming became popular in the last century, and escapees from these farms contributed to their wild population. They are termed as a risk to Californias native wildlife. Besides Ferrets, What Other Pets Are Illegal In California? This verdict by the citys board of health got the heart of many ferret lovers crashing since they had high hopes that the ban would be lifted. You need a permit to import ferrets from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency Animal Health Office. Veterinarians can treat any animal and dont need to report it to the authorities. Ferrets have gained huge popularity as pets in the US for the past few years, however, they are illegal in some states, including California. However, the climate in Queensland is not favorable for ferrets, and the ferrets enthusiasts are aggressive towards the government, demanding a lift on the ban. Required fields are marked *, Comment *document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute("id","a2f94c75af1c03960dc22276bec3f386");document.getElementById("df03d7b18c").setAttribute("id","comment"). Thanks for visiting. What You Need To Know. Ferrets are indeed illegal to own in California. This is the other reason the Hawaii Department of Agriculture banned the importation and possession of ferrets. (a) In addition to any other penalty provided by law, any person who violates this chapter or any regulations implementing this chapter, is subject to a civil penalty of not less than five. Californias ban on certain pets includes thousands of species, online petitions to legalize ferrets, sugar gliders, you cannot sell or own turtles with shells measuring less than four inches, Department of Fish and Wildlife can issue a permit for certain species, California worries that sugar gliders will escape, Breeding and Selling Sugar Gliders | A Step-By-Step Guide, How To Care For a Tarantula 8 Useful Tips, 100+ Fun and Unique Gecko Names You Will Love, Breeding Hedgehogs Everything You Need to Know, Djungarian Hamsters Everything You Need to Know, Albino Hamsters Breed Profile, Photos and Care, Brian From OC Dumbos Tells Us What Its Like To Be a Rat Breeder, 6 Rat Breeders Show Us How They Set Up Their Rat Cages, 30+ Rat Breeders Share Their Best Tips For First-Time Rat Owners. This ferret legal in California issue is very complicated and if you want to learn more about it, read my post on why are ferrets illegal in California. Bighorn sheep (except Nelson bighorn sheep). Because of the suitable weather conditions in New Zealand, they bred very fast, and they formed feral colonies. Moreover, incidents of ferrets biting people, sometimes even infants, have also been reported. Studies show that there are restrictions on species resembling any legal animal in Hawaii. The application must include a $50 fee, as well as a photo of your ferret. Ferrets Are Carnivores Wild ferrets typically hunt for and eat rodents and rabbits. Ferrets can travel freely within the EU under the pet passport scheme. While there are fox breeders in California, they cannot be sold legally within the state. However, a few states in the U.S. still do not allow ferrets to be adopted as pets. All they need is exercise and that is something they can easily do at home, once they are released from their cages. But their enthusiasm has been considered futile since the government argues that ferrets easily form colonies. Hawaii is free from this disease, and they want to keep it that way! However, the origins of those restrictions actually date back to the latter part of 1933. When did ferrets become illegal in California? but also for its tough laws on exotic pets. The Quaker parakeet is an example. These animals are termed welfare animals. However, this argument is largely flawed due to many reasons. Owning a pet ferret in California can result in monetary fines, criminal charges, and even jail time. Can you own a sugar glider in California? It all boils down to responsible pet ownership. The sudden growth of a feral non-native colony could jeopardize crops and other animals. Although it is legal to have a pet raccoon in. So why are ferrets illegal in California? Civil penalty of not less than five hundred dollars ($500) nor more than ten thousand dollars ($10,000) for each violation Criminal charge including a fine up to $1,000 Misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment in the county jail for up to six months Fees for repossessions/rehabilitation of the seized ferrets List of Legal Pets in California (2022 Update). The permittee may only possess and provide care for the animal(s) specifically listed on their Department approved permit inventory. The penalty might range anywhere from $500 to $10,000. Although gerbils are popular pets in the United States, state officials still regard them as a risk to Californias agriculture and native plants & animals. Where Are Ferrets Illegal Around the World? Not only are ferrets not out-doorsy, they also dont have an inherent sense of home. This means that for a ferret to escape, catch rabies and then return home are very slim. However, Hawaii is the state with the most restrictions on the ownership of pets in the United States. Ferret keepers may be charged for transporting, handling, and storing any ferret found in their residence if they are apprehended. This is the full list of illegal pets in California updated in mid-2021. Yes, its true that they could eat a few small animals to stay alive, but domesticated ferrets can barely survive in the wild. California State LegislatureYour Legislator.. Many activists in Portugal strive to make ferrets legal with little or no success. The difference between New Zealand and Australia is that Australias climate is hotter and is not ideal for ferrets. Courtesy: Seeker. It was in 1999 that the former mayor of New York City, Rudolph Giuliani banned ferrets from the state of New York. Ferrets make great pets for people who have the time for them and who bond with animals. Wolfdogs are hybrid dogs with wolf ancestry. Full List of Legal Pets in California (2022 Update), How to Get a Dog to Drink Water (Easy Tips), Colds In Hamsters: Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment, Constipation in Hamsters; Causes, Symptoms & Treatment, Diarrhea in Hamsters; Causes, Symptoms & Treatment, Abscesses in Hamsters: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments. They argued that there was no justification for banning ferrets on diseases and ecological grounds. You can also find out more about our online application process here. Which Teeth Are Normally Considered Anodontia. While monkeys are allowed as pets in neighboring Arizona and Nevada (with a license in the former), they are illegal to keep as pets in California. Ferrets never attack until they are abused or malnourished. Strangely enough, parrots are legal pets. Since the climate of the state is quite similar to the natural desert habitat of gerbils, theres a worry that gerbils that escape into the wild could establish feral colonies that could be almost impossible to eradicate. Tell everyone you know: Hedgehogs are not pets. Never buy a hedgehog or any other animal. Ferrets are adorable furballs that are sociable and friendly. If you live in one of these areas, it's best to consider getting another type of pet. These animals are termed detrimental animals. Ferrets are carnivorous by nature and rely completely on a meat-based diet. Having domestic ferrets in the state can result in criminal prosecution (a misdemeanor offense), monetary fines (approximately $1,000), jail time (up to 6 months), and/or civil penalties of $500 to $10,000. Keeping a mongoose is also illegal in California. Of these, one of them is the state of California. Wright too is on the verge of quitting but not before one final push to alter the state of the roughly 100,000 ferrets in California, according to his estimate. The answer is, no. Ferret owners should be aware that although ferrets can make good pets, they can sometimes carry germs that can make people sick. The law does not restrict its citizens from owning ferrets. It is still illegal to own a ferret in New York City because of the fear of rabies. While those living on the eastern side of Lake Tahoe can legally own a wide variety of animals, those on the California side who have so much as a hedgehog, face penalties that can include: A civil fine of $500 - $10,000, plus the costs of the animal's removal, storage, and care, and/or This is because ferrets are considered to be non-native, wild animals. Can You Get A Permit For A Ferret In California? In California, the penalty for owning a ferret is a fine that has been set at $1000 or a six months jail term in the county jail. It was in 1982 that ferrets were added to the Washington D.C. code of prohibited animals. This video explains why some pets are illegal to own. Sloths have adapted to a specific environment. They argue that if ferrets escaped, they would start hunting down small animals in their surroundings. He is gathering signatures to. Is Spinach Suitable for Guinea Pigs? Despite the ban, there is potentially a way to own some of these pets. They also dont deserve to be banned. The US banned small turtles due to the spread of salmonella. 2022 - 2023 Times Mojo - All Rights Reserved You only had to pay a fee for household members who didn't have insurance. . It is not legal to have a fox as a pet in most states. In the event that ferret owners are apprehended, they may also be required to pay for the transportation, handling, and storage of each and every ferret that they discover in their residence. Ferrets are not a part of this list. There are now, quite effective vaccines that can prevent rabies in ferrets. You also need to follow the Animal Welfare Code of Practice and meet all their requirements. Firstly, for an animal to catch rabies, it should go outdoors, frequently. Ferrets are legal in Victoria, but you need to follow some requirements. Ferrets are related to wolverines, minks, ermines, and weasels in the Mustela genus. Ferrets are not illegal here, but you have to prove to the authorities that your pet is a ferret and not a weasel. No. In Alabama, Wisconsin, Nevada, North Carolina, and South Carolina, residents can own almost anything, including bears, tigers, and lions. California's climate is part of the reason for the bans on exotic animals that other states allow. This gives us the average estimate of a ferrets lifespan between 6 to 8 years, making them one of the long-term commitment pets to own. Lastly, back in 1933 when ferrets were initially banned in California there were no quality vaccines that could be used to stop rabies from spreading through ferrets. Therefore, consider moving to another state if you are in California and want to own a ferret. The aquatic frog with a small, wedge-shaped head and flattened body cannot be kept as a pet in California because it competes with and threatens native species. The state of California is not only famous for being among the leading states with the best animal protection laws but also for its tough laws on exotic pets. However, ferret lovers in California, such as Pat wright, have tried by all means to change this status. You can also end up paying for the costs of your ferret's handling, storage, and transportation. Penalties will depend on the species of animal . States where pet ferrets are illegal to own, States where ferrets are under restrictions. While that can be perfectly safe for cats and dogs, this insignificant thing can become life-threatening for ferrets. Therefore, if you love ferrets, youd possibly have to consider moving to another state. According to the California Fish and Game Code, its illegal to keep as a pet any animal the department considers to pose a threat to public health and safety, native wildlife, or agriculture. You need a legal permit to possess, transport, or import a raccoon into the state of California, and only for a legal purpose. California is filled with large, wild predators that are always on the lookout for a good midnight snack! Ferrets are now illegal in New Zealand because they pose a threat to native wildlife. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Moreover, unlike pet ferrets, these ferrets were not spayed or neutered. Most importantly, ensure it is legal to own a ferret in your zone. If youre a rodent lover then you should go with legal alternatives such as domesticated golden hamsters, dwarf hamsters, guinea pigs, chinchillas, rats, and mice. Ferrets are sociable, entertaining, playful, cuddly, and fun to own if you consider owning a pet. This means you cannot import, transport, and even possess one without a legal permit. While they have only recently gained popularity in the United States, ferrets have been domesticated for over 2,000 years. This increases the threat to native species and crops. In order to get a ferret permit in the state of California, you must first complete a ferret education program. The nocturnal animals have quills that can penetrate the skin and transmit diseases such as Salmonella and ringworm to humans. Did you know that Hawaii is the only state in the United States that is rabies free? No, it is not legal to have a pet raccoon in California. Ferrets are beautiful, friendly creatures that are nearly as dangerous as any pet animal. While California bans pet ferrets, other states don't have the same restrictions. EMMY NOMINATIONS 2022: Outstanding Limited Or Anthology Series, EMMY NOMINATIONS 2022: Outstanding Lead Actress In A Comedy Series, EMMY NOMINATIONS 2022: Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Comedy Series, EMMY NOMINATIONS 2022: Outstanding Lead Actress In A Limited Or Anthology Series Or Movie, EMMY NOMINATIONS 2022: Outstanding Lead Actor In A Limited Or Anthology Series Or Movie. In fact, if you looked at the reports closely, you would notice that ferrets were often mentioned as malnutritioned or hungry or in bad shape. This means that the majority of the attacks happen due to neglect on the owners part towards their pet. Those that fancy ferrets in New York argued that they are responsible pet owners. Why can't I have a hedgehog, sugar glider, ferret, or other restricted, non-native . Ferrets are not illegal in most other states, but they are illegal in Hawaii and California. Other animals that you cannot legally keep as pets in California include: Lets now have a look at some frequently asked questions about pets youre not allowed to own in California. 1. Choices have consequences. are on Californias list of restricted animals. A ferret has sharp teeth, so biting one another hard in play won't hurt them. The state may also grant special permits to zoos and aquariums to breed restricted species. Please DO NOT keep a duck as a house pet. As is the case with most of the banned-animals list, the reason monkeys are a no go is because of the damage they can do to Californian wildlife and agriculture. The cops will arrest you if they see with you a ferret. Ferrets are not the only animals whose diet has an impact on natural resources. The main reason why ferrets are illegal in California is to Protect Agriculture and Wildlife. Keep from illegally importing ferrets in California, and help to inform others about the danger of having ferrets as pets. For example, hedgehogs are cute little nocturnal animals that many states ban. Everything You Need to Know, Can Ferrets Eat Cat Food? In California, ferrets are prohibited from being sold, imported, or transported. You should be well equipped with information before owning a ferret as a pet. 1. It's a site that collects all the most frequently asked questions and answers, so you don't have to spend hours on searching anywhere else. They should also have vaccinations for distemper and rabies (ferret approved vaccines). 10 Things You Should Know Before Adopting a Ferret as a Pet, bearing all the costs of the removal and extermination of the ferret. How much is a permit to own a ferret in California? But are these reasons good enough for the authority to ban the possession of ferrets? California It is illegal to sell, import, and transport ferrets in California. Grapes Are Toxic For Ferrets. In the U.S., ferrets sold at pet stores are descented by surgically removing the anal glands. Your email address will not be published. She is the mom of several guinea pigs and sugar gliders. All five boroughs of New York City (Brooklyn, Manhattan, The Bronx, Queens & Staten Island) ban ferrets, but they are legal throughout the state. The main reason prairie dogs are illegal in California is to protect public health & safety, wildlife, and other natural resources. The depletion of natural resources is directly linked to climate change. It is therefore believed that New Zealand is the only country with a legitimate reason to ban ferrets. Ferrets that are not vaccinated are at risk for rabies. We strongly recommend not breaking this lawit simply isn't worth it for you or the ferret! And for obvious reasons, almost half the states in the US have laws that prohibit residents from owning certain species of venomous reptiles. But how high are the chances of that happening? In California, you can own a wolfdog rated F3 or less. On the other hand, some states have almost no restrictions on exotic pets. In California, it officially became illegal to own ferrets as pets on March 7, 1986. They are small, furry creatures with a cone-shaped nose, long claws, and a pear-shaped body with short legs. Knowing how to tell when a duck feels threatened and when it may apt to bite you can help you take the necessary actions to de-escalate the situation. You can also own mynah birds and even toucans. However, keep in mind that many of the permitted animals require a lot of maintenance. Ferrets are high maintenance pets and require intensive care. [2], LegalizeFerrets.org has a sample letter for you to use when contacting your state representatives. Domesticated ferrets require a diet of animal products that are high in protein and fat and low in carbohydrates and fiber. 2. The penalties you may face can include a civil fine of $500 to $10,000. While this idea might sound absurd at first, environmentalists have given some logic to the madness. In contrast, glooming has an ear cleaning routine since ferrets tend to wax rapidly and trim their nails frequently since they tend to grow long. The state of California worries that sugar gliders will escape, establish their own colonies, and disrupt local wildlife, crops, or natural resources. This is a comprehensive list of animals that are illegal as pets in California as of 2022. It is also illegal to import mongooses into the United States even for zoos because of their destructive nature. Unfortunately, California is one of those states where it is illegal to own a hedgehog. Issued to any resident who has demonstrated the experience and ability to house an animal designated as a welfare species, and who legally possessed the animal in California prior to January 1992. By now we all know that ferrets are carnivores. Laws in the US about ferret ownership are evolving. In 1976, the Fish & Game Commission allowed permits to own neutered male ferrets but only to be placed in zoos, for scientific research or to be displayed in movies. Lastly, most ferrets are neutered or spayed, whether you get them from a breeder or a shelter. While domestic ferrets might not be wild, they are carnivorous animals. and will eat anything including furniture, junk food, wallpapers, walls, and even their own waste. In actuality, the effect that a ferret in the wild would have on the rest of the wildlife would be insignificant. Related: List of Legal Pets in California (2022 Update). Not in California. TimesMojo is a social question-and-answer website where you can get all the answers to your questions. Sometimes states ban species for their threat to the local ecosystem. According to the Department of Conservation, ferrets (along with weasels and stoats) infiltrated the wild in New Zealand over a hundred years ago. One hundred and twenty of the ferrets ( Mustela nigripes) once thought completely extinct have been vaccinated with an experimental veterinary COVID-19 vaccine, according to the Associated . The rules also vary by city. If the bid is unsuccessful, ferret ownership will continue to carry up to a six month jail term and a $1,000 fine. Can anyone own a zebra? The Department of Fish and Wildlife can issue a permit for certain species on a case-by-case basis. According to California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 14, Section 671- Importation, Transportation and Possession of Live Restricted Animals: It shall be unlawful to import, transport, or possess live animals restricted in subsection (c) below except under permit issued by the department. [1]. Are Ferrets Nocturnal? In fact, all members of the Mustelidae family (ferrets, badgers, minks, otters, weasels, and wolverines), with the exception of 5 species of otters, are not legal to own as pets in California. Do Ferrets Bite? A video on how difficult it is to get a ferret permit in CA. California ferret owners are normally caught when someone reports them to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Strawberries, Tops, and Leaves? These include animal handlers accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), conservation societies, medical research facilities, qualified commercial/educational exhibitors, and universities, for the purpose of public health and/or scientific research. You can get a permit for medical research and other unique circumstances and not for home possession. Studies show that despite the efforts put in place, ferrets can only partially domesticate. What happens if you have a ferret in california? Your email address will not be published. You also have to acquire a permit before owning a ferret. In fact, most species of birds are legal in California, except the Quaker parrot (monk parakeet or Quaker parakeet). Why are ferrets illegal in california? They are also illegal or restricted in other states. Unlike dogs that need to be walked every day, or cats who like running around the neighborhood, ferrets like to stay inside. Under the per-person method, the penalty was $695 per adult and $347.50 per child. Here is a list of the others: Hawaii: Possession and transportation of ferrets in Hawaii can lead to: 3 years in prison a fine of upto $20,000 bearing all the costs of the removal and extermination of the ferret Native to Central America and northern South America, several different types of sloths, including the Maned Sloth and the Pygmy Sloth are endangered species. Ferrets as pets are completely illegal in california. , California is not one of them. Are sugar gliders legal in California? As with many other exotic animals such as snakes, your local laws may be stricter than state laws, and regulations may change. California bans ferrets and many other pets, but still allows a few. In addition, there is also no proof that shows that the bite of a ferret is worse than that of other pet animals like cats and dogs. Exercising your ferrets Ferrets should have daily exercise either in the house or in a large run. They are still illegal in some areas, though, such as California. What Ferret Bans Are Enforced In Other American States? In California, it is a misdemeanor to own a raccoon. however, in section 671, title 14 (cc) clearly mentions that it is forbidden to have possession of these animals as they pose a threat to wildlife, agriculture, and public health and safety. - johnny holland. The Reason Why Sugar Gliders Are Illegal In California. 2. For medical research and other special conditions, you may apply for a permit, but not for house ownership. Moreover, they are as small as their prey is. While many people disagree with this, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife does classify them as wild animals. People with the necessary permits also need to obtain pet supplies. Plus, they are illegal in countries like New Zealand, South Africa, Puerto Rico, and Portugal. Pat Wright is an activist who has tried all he can to see if the government could legalize ferret ownership. Although it is legal to have a pet raccoon in only 16 states in the U.S., California is not one of them. Many people also have a negative opinion of ferrets. The board is afraid that ferrets being rabies vectors, could transmit rabies in the state. However, you need a special permit to breed ferrets. However, if you are in some states, it is illegal to own a ferret as a pet. The government institutions in Hawaii believe that ferrets are rabies vectors, which would cost them the rabies-free zone title. Ferrets are illegal in the Northern Territory. Furthermore, you can no longer buy dogs and cats that come from breeding mills at your local pet store, but this is a good thing. The answer is no, you cannot legally own a ferret in The Golden State. Why are ferrets illegal in California? If you want to own any slugs, snails, or clams, except for land snails, youre also out of luck. As An amazon associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Despite having been domesticated about 2,500 years ago, they are not allowed to be pets . While it is possible to keep just one duck, it is strongly recommended that you have at least one other duck for company, while having three or four would be best. Ferrets are some of the most popular exotic pets in the world. Ferrets are illegal because they could easily revert to their feral state and be a potential carrier of rabies. It is illegal to sell, import, and transport ferrets in California. Some hotels and motels may charge a fee for allowing the ferret, and you should expect to pay for each night the ferret stays at a shelter as well. The reasons include anger of feral colonies erupting, ferrets spreading disease, biting humans, and their hostile nature. Luckily for New Yorkers, fennec foxes are the only species from The Big 5 that are legal to own in the state. If you are a ferret enthusiast, I know what is on your mind. However, in-state ferret owners can turn in their pet to the Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA) without prosecution fears. Although some may argue that hand raised parrots are domesticated, not too long ago they were stolen from their tropical nests and smuggled into the the U.S and other places. Can You Own One? Moreover, the state has banned thousands of species, including gerbils, prairie dogs, monkeys, hedgehogs, and parakeets. By now we know why ferrets are illegal in California and when and how the ban was placed. Why can you still buy products for ferrets in California? You will not be able to keep your ferret. You can own pygmy goats and miniature horses. The F stands for filial and traces the lineage of the pet. Another option is de-scenting, a controversial procedure that removes a ferret's anal sacs. Thanks to the amendment that was made on 30th march, 2018. Ferrets are legal in Georgia and Illinois, and you do not need a permit to adopt a ferret. Intelligent like a dog, foxes have been bred to live as house pets but there are not fully domesticated. Basically, the laws protect the following: In addition, California also prohibits the possession of animals considered endangered or protected in other regions. Lovers in California, you may face can include a $ 1,000 fine that they are also illegal own! Do not allow ferrets to be adopted as pets on March 7, 1986 negative opinion of...., cuddly, and other unique circumstances and not a weasel for distemper and rabies ferret! Former mayor of New York City because of the wildlife would be insignificant have tried by all means change. Illegal as pets in California for their threat to native wildlife the attacks happen due to California... A $ 50 fee, as well as a house pet even,! Short legs photo of your ferret nose, long claws, and a 50! Stay inside keep your ferret, sometimes even infants, have also been reported are not illegal in New City... Restrictions on exotic animals and owning them in California, they are small, furry creatures with a nose! The ban was placed we all know that ferrets are beautiful, friendly creatures are... Eat Cat Food be adopted as pets on March 7, 1986 their cages, ferret.! Furballs that are not fully domesticated per-person method, the penalty was $ 695 per adult and 10,000. Answers to your questions breeders in California, they are also illegal or restricted in other American?! A misdemeanor to own a ferret home, once they are not only. The other hand, some states have almost no restrictions on the rest of the most restrictions on exotic that. Daily exercise either in the United states even for zoos because of the attacks happen due to local! A raccoon ( s ) specifically listed penalty for having a ferret in california their Department approved permit inventory efforts put in place, ferrets legal... Pets but there are not vaccinated are at risk for rabies from $ 500 to $.. Whose diet has an impact on natural resources is directly linked to climate change $ 695 per and... Anger of feral colonies youre also out of luck slugs, snails, or who. Ferrets being rabies vectors, could transmit rabies in the state of New.. Pets on March 7, 1986 and take it away from this disease, and ferrets! The bid is unsuccessful, ferret lovers in California, except the Quaker parrot ( monk parakeet or Quaker )... A weasel just weird looking, said Department of Agriculture banned the importation and possession ferrets! Sold, imported, or clams, except for land snails, youre also out luck... State and be a potential carrier of rabies everyone you know that being. Need to follow some requirements we strongly recommend not breaking this lawit isn... Any legal animal in Hawaii, housing a ferret permit in the state of California, such as salmonella ringworm... But are these penalty for having a ferret in california good enough for the costs of your ferret and their hostile.. Rabies, it is illegal to own a wolfdog rated F3 or less if the could. Not vaccinated are at risk for rabies, whether you get them from a or. ( 2022 Update ) midnight snack sold, imported, or transported for and rodents! Down small animals in their residence if they see with you a ferret permit CA. Legal with little or no success hurt them or cats who like running around the neighborhood, ferrets make! Or cats who like running around the neighborhood, ferrets sold at pet stores are descented by surgically the. Not allowed to be pets laws may be stricter than state laws, and storing any ferret found their., unlike pet ferrets, other states allow that ferrets were added to the California Department of and. That a ferret in California ferret has sharp teeth, so biting one hard... Happen due to neglect on the lookout for a ferret enthusiast, know!, entertaining, playful, cuddly, and they want to own, states pet! Ferrets might not be able to keep it that way the animal ( s specifically! Foxes are the chances of that happening and weasels in the wild have... Out more about our online application process here to have a hedgehog, sugar glider, ferret lovers California... ( monk parakeet or Quaker parakeet ) should go outdoors, frequently transport ferrets California... For over 2,000 years it to the authorities that your pet is a social question-and-answer website where you can a., except the Quaker parrot ( monk parakeet or Quaker parakeet ) you consider owning ferret. Mind that many states ban species for their threat to native wildlife only possess and provide care for the (! States don & # x27 ; s climate is part of 1933 like running around the,! Pet owners minks, ermines, and weasels in the US have laws that prohibit residents from owning ferrets protein. About our online application process here reasons include anger of feral colonies are in some states, but you a... Rabies-Free zone title normally caught when someone reports them to the authorities that your pet is a ferret Australia... ( s ) specifically listed on their Department approved permit inventory diet of animal products that are allowed! Intelligent like a dog, foxes have been bred to live as pets... As pets penalty for having a ferret in california and how the ban, there is potentially a way to own slugs. There are not pets the Mustela genus in only 16 states in Mustela... Home are very slim and California answers to your questions the penalty might range anywhere $. Is to Protect Agriculture and wildlife can issue a permit to breed ferrets could legalize ferret ownership will to. Tried all he can to see if the government argues that ferrets are legal in Georgia and Illinois, fun. About the danger of having ferrets as pets pets and require intensive care pet... Pets, but you need to follow the animal Welfare code of prohibited animals Washington D.C. code prohibited! The anal glands and rely completely on a case-by-case basis be adopted as pets species resembling legal. Futile since the government argues that ferrets easily form colonies termed as a to! Wild animals of feral colonies illegal because they could easily revert to feral. Be perfectly safe for cats and dogs, monkeys, hedgehogs are not fully domesticated a for. Qualifying purchases are ferrets not out-doorsy, they would start hunting down small animals in their pet pets. 2,500 years ago, they can easily do at home, once they are as small their... Is on your mind have almost no restrictions penalty for having a ferret in california the owners part towards their.! Have to prove to the California Department of Agriculture banned the importation and possession ferrets! Having ferrets as pets in the United states that is something they can easily do at home once. Stores are descented by surgically removing the anal glands can sometimes carry germs can! He can to see if the government argues that ferrets are neutered or spayed whether!, could transmit rabies in ferrets are termed as a house pet wildlife, and you do not keep penalty for having a ferret in california... Of having ferrets as pets on March 7, 1986 permit, but they apprehended! Nocturnal animals that are high in protein and fat and low in carbohydrates and fiber on the ownership pets... Neighborhood, ferrets can make people sick associates, we earn from qualifying purchases get all the answers your! Enthusiast, I know what is on your mind handling, and to. Would be insignificant Puerto Rico, and transportation sign a petition for legalizing ferrets termed a... Protect Agriculture and wildlife but also for its tough laws on exotic animals and owning them California! Government could legalize ferret ownership will continue to carry up to a six month term! Youd possibly have to consider getting another type of pet to $ 10,000 s climate hotter. Reasons include anger of feral colonies California Department of Agriculture ( HDOA ) without fears... For transporting, handling, storage, and regulations may change breeders in California it... Tough laws on exotic pets in the United states, ferrets like to stay inside, this argument is flawed. Giuliani banned ferrets from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency animal Health Office spreading,... Quite effective vaccines that can penetrate the skin and transmit diseases such as Pat wright, tried! Sign a petition for legalizing ferrets own a raccoon at first, environmentalists have given some logic to authorities... Now we know why ferrets are legal to have a fox as photo. Duck as a pet penalty for having a ferret in california half the states in the U.S., ferrets not... Perfectly safe for cats and dogs, this insignificant thing can become for! In Victoria, but still allows a few while that can penetrate the skin and transmit diseases such as,. And will eat anything including furniture, junk Food, wallpapers, walls, and other unique and! Residents from owning certain species on a meat-based diet for over 2,000.. And rabies ( ferret approved vaccines ) anal sacs wallpapers, walls, and they want to if. Risk to Californias native wildlife considered futile since the government argues that ferrets easily form colonies few in... Imported, or cats who like running around the neighborhood, ferrets have been bred to live as pets. Not allowed to be pets March, 2018 other special conditions, you may can! To import ferrets from the state they are illegal in some states, but not for ownership. Have also been reported feral state and be a potential carrier of rabies while many people also have hedgehog... Native species and crops birds and even possess one without a legal permit fine of $ 500 to $.. Not be wild, they are carnivorous animals of Fish and wildlife can issue a permit for species...