She said yes . amanda panda There are many exotic pets that people fantasize about owningbaby penguins, panda bears, dragonsbut they are often shocked to hear that some people can and do legally keep exotic pets like fennec foxes, wild cats, and marmosets. Unless you do what Joseph Carter does for his mink to keep them busy, I wouldn't recommend them as pets to most people. The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers to this website may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Question: Where do you go to adopt an otter? Freshwater otters live in family groups of up to 15 in the wild. They are expensive to buy and house. Pet otters are sought after in many Asian countries like Japan, Thailand, and Malaysia.. They deserve to be out in the world in environments which we do't interfere with. 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. In so many States in the USA it is illegal to keep a pet otter. Native birds are also federally protected. Fun fact: Otters are one of the lesser-known tool users of the animal kingdom. Yet otters are still being illegally smuggled into these countries to be sold as pets., Loud noises. The level of protection and types of otters present vary across different parts of the world. Objects, such as hollowed-out lots, well-placed shrubs and trees, and items of cage furniture. Otters are restless and do not like to be restrained or restricted. Because I love otters. Otters are carnivores and primarily eat fish, shellfish, and other aquatic creatures. Otters can also be loud and destructive. Messy housemates. Lontra canadensis. I greatly agree that some animals are better of wild but I read somewhere as well that as more human encroach on their natural habitats, these animals need to be protected. -They have a lot of personality and can be very affectionate with their owners. As a pet, otter ownership can be difficult for a variety of reasons, but owning one is not an easy choice. Would it require witchcraft for an otter to stay alive like that? Let us know in the comments below! Home / My Animal / Can You Have an Otter as a Pet? These animals are also preys in the wild and keeping these animals as pet increase their chances of survival greatly. Its wrong for all the people who have commented to post where do I get get one, how much do they cost, etc why would you people even post shit like that. Otters climb, so a roof or top is required, and they are keen diggers, so any fencing needs to be extended in-ground. However, like all mustelids that arent domesticated ferrets, they are also challenging to keep, and will require large enclosures and extensive enrichment. However, they will probably warn you against going down the route of otter husbandry, for the reasons I have outlined in this guide. EXOTIC ANIMALS ARE NOT PETS. It is illegal in all US States to keep this indigenous otter as a pets. No, otters are not good pets. Let us learn more about this incredible creature as we read this article. No matter how much you fantasize about them, you must accept the fact that they are not house pets. Different provinces have different laws. Smell may seem a minor consideration, but should not be overlooked. While they were not the first country to open a pet caf (this was Taiwan's honor), the idea gained significant popularity there. Many Asian countries have taken measures to protect them through bans and regulation.. Well address some of the most frequently asked questions about buying an otter. They prefer flat stones that are as wide as a large orange. Can you pet otters? Answer: Probably not. I don't approve but it amazes me the animals aren't showing obvious signs of distress. Please be better than that and get a pet that we breed for generations. (Lifespan Guide). They need plenty of space and care., An otters enclosure needs to be large enough for them to get exercise and forage. Answer: Yes, but you would have to be granted a permit, which isn't easy. I will stick with my donations and wish them love. Since otters are not legal to buy, its difficult to give a price range. Exotic animals have many guidelines regarding their maintenance in captivity, but possession laws do change depending on the State. Otters arent happy to be one or two with a child pool and a bathtub ! 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. In Japan, pet fads appear with a certain regularity. Unfortunately, we would not be able to list every country where keeping otter as a pet is legal or illegal. I do not even need to mention you all the reasons why. I spearfish the invasive fish in the eel river and have had wild otters swimming feet away from me eating the fish I kill. Instead, consider visiting them at a zoo or wildlife sanctuary, where you can observe and appreciate these amazing animals in a safe and responsible manner. 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. Online classified ads Sites such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace sometimes have individuals who breed or sell otters. AnimalWised takes a look at the different aspects of domestic otters. Many zoos and aquariums offer adoption programs, which allow you to support the care of an otter without owning one. Living with a Pet Otter There are many effects which you should be aware of before getting a pet otter. I tend to state that theres no such thing as a good or bad petit depends on what youre looking for in an animal. 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. This article is very upfront and honest, however when reading the comments I was overwhelmed with all the ignorance. (8 Best Scorpions Types as Pets), How Often Do Scorpions Eat? They also mark their territory by smearing their feces around, which contributes to the odor.. The recommended space for a pair of otters is 60 m, roughly the size of an average apartment. Not all our wants are positive. Unless you are an expert or biologist or zoologist, you should not own an exotic pet. Food is expensive. Put a ring on it! Several countries have legislation protecting otters from being kept as pets. They love water so it is best if you have a body of water nearby for them to frolic in. A lot more animals are legal in New York State, as opposed to New York City, where most animals are illegal. Even a pair of otters is not ideal and you will need another 5 m per additional otter. Not needing to be walked or taken out for exercise is a big plus for many people. Animals other than those that are usually kept as a companion or domestic animal attract a lot of attention and generate curiosity to know what it is like to have one at home. I am currently an ecological project officer at Middlemarch Environmental Ltd. I'm leaving school and need to know where to move to own one okay kids you really need to go move to where you can own a bear and just let it live with you in your house just do us all a favor and go get mauled people are really dumb holy shit lmfao. All rights reserved. Otters are smelly, loud and extremely active; they have sharp teeth and jaws strong enough to crack open shellfish. If you still want to own this aquatic creature, the biggest obstacle you will face is this: Where can you find one? The fact that these otters require a tropical climate may be why they tend to be kept mostly by zoo professionals. Your bathtub or pool cant substitute for the large bodies of water otters are naturally found in. 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! While it's common to keep dogs and cats as pets, other unique and interesting animals including reptiles, insects, amphibians and terrestrial . Their temperaments are unpredictable they are wild animals at heart and can be dangerous, especially if not under supervision near children. Fencing needs to extend in-ground because they can also dig out. Click to attach a photo related to your comment. 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. However, it is important to remember that even trained otters are still wild animals and should be treated with respect and caution. One thing that I think it's important to note is that ASC otters vocalize constantly in captivity for attention. 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? I guess they'd much rather be coddled and have everything handed to them SMH. This is the smallest. Otters are cute, furry water animals that hold hands and groom each other to bond. Taking feathers directly from the bird so the scent is present, and scatter them in various places. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. So why don't you see more otters playing in the park on a Sunday afternoon? But. They love to swim and dive in shallow waters although there are records of sea otters diving as deep as 100 meters. Shes advising you not, To. Otters like to climb and dig, so your enclosure will need a top and to be dug into the ground. 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. One of the few ways to keep an armadillo as a pet is to be someone who holds an Animal Breeding License, but obtaining one is difficult. Complex care requirements: Otters are not domesticated animals and require specialized care. Depending on the size, the cage should provide at least 30% water. And for those shaming her in the comments. It is illegal in all US States to keep this indigenous otter as a pets. Many zoos and aquariums have volunteer programs that allow you to work with otters and other animals. This does not even take into consideration the amount of capital needed to install the appropriate enclosure and keep the otters well fed. 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. most native mammals are nocturnal and some, such as possums and gliders, can only be kept . Their appearance may be similar to a friendly dog's, but their temperament is quite the opposite. The space aka property with a huge pond that I would build a huge enclosure around. Dont take this as an endorsement of keeping them, but in purely legal terms, you may be able to own an otter in the following states: In the majority of the US, it is completely illegal to keep an otter as a pet. Many zoos and aquariums train their otters to participate in educational programs or to exhibit natural behaviors for visitors to see. Keeping an otter as a solitary pet can make them very sad. The answer is no. Cats and dogs were bred to be companions and we couldn't even handle that. 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 . However, pet owners must meet strict requirements, including providing a secure and appropriate habitat, proper nutrition, and veterinary care. Valentina z not all exotic pets are ripped away from their habitat some are rescued. Another relatively popular pet fad in Japan is the practice of keeping otters as pets. Patrons for the Utterly Outrageous Otters Encounter must be 12 years and over. If an otter does attack, they have sharp teeth which can be very dangerous, especially to children. They also need have enough elements such as trees and branches to scavenge. As stated in the introduction, otters are mustelids. Otters have very sharp teeth and can turn aggressive quickly, if annoyed. It is the smallest otter species in the world, reaching a length of just 3 ft, or 90cm. I thank you for the info! An otters diet can vary. Very few are owned by private individuals and habited in domestic environments. Only one species of otters is not considered federally illegal in the US, which is the Asian small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinereus). 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. They can have up to 1 million (thats 1 with six zeros!) Cage should have a top and fencing needs to extend in-ground. However, I'd like to be able to contribute to the conservation of otters and their habitat, so I hope I can find a way to do that. Are otters friendly with humans? Theyre very intelligent and need so much stimulation , just like an African parrot but maybe 10 times more. This is not a pet for beginners, or the faint-hearted! It is important to exercise caution and practice good hygiene when interacting with otters or their environment. Using food dispensing devices available for dogs and cats that must be manipulated to dispense treats. These can grow up to 6 ft long, almost 2 meters, and have a nasty bite, so you probably wouldnt want to own one anyway! In the wild, otters can live up to 10-15 years, while those in captivity may live longer. 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. Product details: Item Number: 001000265731 Brand: Otter Box Model Number: iPhone 7 Plus Colour: Pink We ship nationwide! Quite possibly. They have high exercise and socialization needs and require a large living space with access to water. All those things you find cute on IG are them showing their distress ! Not all countries have strict protection laws and many otter populations are already in decline. Where can I hold hands with otters? They will need to be kept in an enclosure that is at least 10' x 8' x 6'. I can only make educated guesses as to where they might be legal due to researching what isn't legal. Of course, this depends on whether or not you can find someone willing to sell you one in the first place. No, and you don't want one. In some cases, it may be possible to keep an otter with the proper permits and licenses. Heap, C. J., Wright, L., and Andrews, L. (2008). Remember to always treat otters with respect and caution, and support conservation efforts to protect these important animals. Their relatives include wolverines, badgers, and, of course, weasels (stoats). You'll also need access to plenty of fish. Why is is not right to have an OTTER as a PET? Don't even get us started on baby otter pups. These animals include bears, primates, big cats, canids, venomous and large reptiles (crocodilians, large constrictor snakes, and large monitor lizards). You may be asked to demonstrate this. 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. Retrieved from. However, owning an otter as a pet is illegal in many states, so be sure to check local laws before purchasing. 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. Reuters Just saying because you want an exotic pet doesnt make you a bad person. If you find a wild otter, it is best to leave it alone and contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center. Answer: Since pet otters are rare, a dealer has a lot of leeway when naming their price. Tremble with Tarka as the sounds of the otter hounds come down the valley. They also mark their territory by smearing their scent; which is known as sprinting. 70-80% can be meat-based, and can include chicks, chicken, venison, rabbit, etc. 7 Caracal Cat Facts. . However, they also mark territory with scent glands at the base of their tail. How otters are protected. Otters are excellent diggers and have sharp claws and teeth. 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. I couldn't agree more. 9 Affordable Pet Insurance for Low Income Families, Donating to organizations that support otter conservation, research, and habitat protection, Purchasing products made from sustainable materials to reduce habitat destruction, Volunteering at a local wildlife rehabilitation center or conservation organization, Advocating for policies and regulations that protect otters and their habitats. Retrieved from, Smith, C. (2017). Not to mention that an otter in a home life most likely is not going to get the water time he needs. Additionally, otters require specialized care and a suitable habitat, making them unsuitable as pets for most people. Are otters good pets? Dont take my word for it read this! Yes, in some cases, you can volunteer with otters. Where can you shake hands with an otter? If you cannot provide an outdoor area, you must provide a large, heated (it must not fall below 50F), secure indoor area, with a pool kept at 75-85F. The cage should have a decent size that allows the animal adequate room to exercise and forge. Yes, you can own an otter in Massachusetts as long as you have a permit from the state. These big furry dogs were bred to hunt otters, which were considered as pests back in the day. Otters can also be loud and destructive. When you are walking, you have to focus on walking because there are so many factors that come into playbalance, proprioceptionand you can't take those for granted.". Plumbing fixture you fuck an otter as a pet linear unit australia OTTERS as PETS Reason It's a BAD Thought. Half the houses in my neighborhood can't even take care of their own dogs right. However, there is also DNA evidence to suggest that cats were susceptible to the process of domestication and may have even domesticated themselves[3]. Can you have a pet otter in australia. This permit requires that you have a secure and adequate enclosure for your otter, and that you provide proper care and nutrition for your pet. They are all semiaquatic, aquatic or marine mammals, and subsist on diets mainly based on fish and invertebrates, such as mollusks. 11:06. This may not seem very big, but their high metabolism and intelligence mean they can take up a lot of space when they need to, or want to. But would only ever do it if I had the money #1, a lot of money. They can cause damage. Dont get an otter just because its adorable , you probably will not be able to care for her . Theyll need a dry area as well as a pool. Because theyre so cute, theres been a high demand to own them as pets., Illegal poaching and sales have hurt the global otter population. And I really want to pet or hold hands with an otter. Aggression in otters is also something important to consider. Such illegal trafficking is detrimental to wild populations of animals worldwide. The IUCN guidelines don't even provide a the space for a single otter as otters are social animals that need at least one other otter for company. Otters are highly social, very active, semi-aquatic, and need a lot of space - so having one single one as a pet would certainly be unethical - even if it were possible. There are several strict guidelines concerning their care and upkeep, but, in theory, you can keep an Asian small-clawed otter as a pet in some states of the USA. Otters are protected under various laws and regulations, and owning one without proper permits can result in fines and other legal consequences. She did nothing wrong shes a vet giving you advice on a animal that people love and right now have are popular. 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. please can someone help. Buy iPhone 11 Otter + Pop Symmetry Series Case at Amazon. The Asian small-clawed otter is the smallest species of otter. Finger Monkey Lifespans: How Long Do Pygmy Marmosets Live as Pets? Not having enough entertainment or putting stress on your pet otter can also lead to destructive, aggressive behavior. On the 4 Asian species 3 are under protection because theyre getting extinct ! Otters are notoriously difficult to potty train, and even when they are, they may decide to go against their training. This has spread to the opening of various hedgehog and even owl cafs. 1. That being said there are no breeders , otters are poached from the wild. They would come to the nano-reef forums posting spotless 10 gallon tanks loaded with fish including tangs. From a legal standpoint, owning an otter can be trickier than a skunk, but it is possible. Keeping an otter as a pet would be unfair to the animal and potentially dangerous for you. Dogs and otters do not get along. Emergency Vet Prices: How Much Does an Emergency Vet Visit Cost? Are Emperor Scorpions Poisonous? Asian Small-Clawed Otter Husbandry Manual. I want a Asian small clawed otter In Arizona ,mesa. Also it's diet would not only be what is in the ponds clearly but only then would I even think about getting an otter. You should be ashamed Mellissa! Even you own a river its not enough! If the otter is not able to be released, it may be possible to adopt it as a pet. It is illegal to have an otter in most states, Pet otters require a lot of space and water, Axolotl Care: How to take care of an axolotl, Vietnamese Mossy Frog Pet Care (10 Steps Complete Guide), American Green Tree Frog as Pets (4 Care Facts You Must. Thanks to hunting, habit destruction and many other human activities, almost all species of otter are either endangered or at least threatened. Unique or exotic pets. In this AnimalWised video, we talk about the lifestyle of these mammals, what types of otter exist and why you should never have them in a. 07:55. The smell of an otters spraint has been likened variously to that of freshly mown hay to putrefied fish. Pool should make up about 30% of the enclosure. (Complete Budgie Diet Guide). It is illegal to keep almost all otters as pets in North America, with one exception. 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. Can you touch an otter? You see, otters are members of the weasel family. As always, wed be delighted to read your comments. This classification means that only native otters are legal which includes the river otter. Answer: Sea otters are not legal anywhere under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. You should include fish. Some ideas include: Domesticated minks are actually semi-aquatic and far more readily available, if legal. Therefore, purchasing an otter can do more harm than good and is not advised. Otters can be destructive and are difficult to housetrain. As the otters like to make a burrow in the land, you will need to have the right sort of soil ans terrain. Living in captivity is simply not a good life for an otter. You will need to provide a heated area for them when temperatures drop below 50F. As a vet you shouldnt explain people what to do if they still wanna keep a wild pet! Under provincial and federal law, it is illegal to keep a wild animal, as designated under the BC Wildlife Act, as a pet. I have grown up in the redwoods of California. Yes, in some cases, you can adopt an otter. There are owners who have domesticated otters. They are cunning and intelligent and predatory and like to know every nook and cranny of their dwelling place. What zoos and aquariums have sea otters? Expect to pay at least $3000; it could also be a lot higher. You can give them a complete cat food as the base, but make sure that over half of their diet is meat-based. This is usually at the behest of a larger authority, often governmental. In the UK, otters are fully protected under Sections 9 and 11 of Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981[2]. -They are relatively low-maintenance, compared to other animals. They're actually very aggressive animals. For instance, in Nevada, lions and elephants are technically legal to own but not 3-pound fennec foxes. if you want to have a wire sort of cage and live in a winter climate would i have to make a little room with heating. As we have stated, they are not domestic animals. Even many experienced pet owners would not try to take on an otter. They are so delightful, you could see why people might want to have an otter as a pet. But there are many factors to consider. However, just like any other wild animal, otters can be dangerous and aggressive. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Smoking Pot Every Day Linked to Heart Risks, Artificial Sweetener Linked to Heart Risks, FDA Authorizes First At-Home Test for COVID and Flu, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Protect Your Cat From These Household Hazards. Even with the best intentions we cant give them enough , enough playtimes, enough nutrition.l enough everything. Otters need a tropical climate. 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. Can Caracal Kitten be good pets? Retrieved on 29 November, 2019. Australia boasts a huge variety of animals. Eastern Garter Snake. The otter is not a domesticated animal species. These have brought significant problems and it is very questionable if exotic animals will fare well in such environments. Asian small clawed otters may be kept with a permit. HubPages is a registered trademark of The Arena Platform, Inc. Other product and company names shown may be trademarks of their respective owners. They werent always domesticated they were rescued or ripped away from thier habitat as well for generations. can also be offered to supplement the diet. 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. More otters smuggled for sale in Japan as demand as pets grows. The base can consist of nutritionally-complete cat food. The oldest known otter lived to be 21 years old. Nutritionally complete cat food can serve as a base subsistence food. Its time to wake up and change, seriously.