In the United States of America, Fennec foxes are legal in every state except Missouri, Minnesota, Nevada, Washington, and a few other states including Idaho and Georgia. For non-native fox species, proof that they were legally obtained and a health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian is required, which is reasonable. This might be more difficult than it sounds to achieve daily. There is however, a catch. Also, these foxes cannot come inside the house, they can only be maintained in outdoor enclosures. but you will be subjected to yearly inspections. Obviously, fennec foxes and other animals should be purchased from a licensed and reputable breeder. In addition, check your local municipalities, home owner associations, and landlord policies, as these can also affect fennec fox legality. This state is highly unusual in its permitting of all fox species, including those that have been captured from the wild. Approximately only 15 states allow some type of fox with or without a permit. In a small number of states, certain fox species are legal as pets, although most officials will try to discourage it. Species allowed: All, but only obtained within the state. Unfortunately, one can never know for sure because animal laws frequently change and information becomes outdated, so you must call your state’s Department of Fish and Game yourself or find a reliable owner to help you. Many states allow them, but not Pennsylvania, California or Alaska. Wild Animal Law. However, this energy burst is thankfully not continuous. “It is not legal to keep fur-bearing animals (fox, otter, raccoon, opossum, skunk, etc.) Our babies do not come de-clawed or de-fanged. These facilities (sometimes this is a person’s house) often can get permits in most states. These thirteen animals are illegal to own as pets: Elk Approximately 13 states allow the private possession of fennec foxes. See this article for more information about the laws regarding owning native wildlife as pets in the state … Owners of animals in ‘Category 2’ require a non-traditional livestock license. Photos of the enclosure may also be accepted. Kansas has exotic animal pet laws in place to protect these exotic pets, the local ecosystem and the society in which the pet exists. Most of the time fennec foxes are sleeping, similarly to cats. Exotic foxes, such as the arctic, fennec, swift, and bat-eared fox can be owned without a permit. Summary of Law: Persons possessing restricted wildlife must obtain a wildlife holding permit to lawfully possess the animal. The Department of Conservation’s website states in relation to exotic foxes: “Other state and federal agencies have regulations regarding nonnative foxes.” The DOC does not regulate non-native foxes, but provides no information on other possible governing bodies that do. Fennec foxes are legal in several states throughout America. They are hunted for their fur by indigenous people. Pet owners used to be allowed to own domesticated foxes in Virginia due to a loophole that was meant to make it legal for fur farmers, but this was reversed in 2017. California has a state law against singling out the breed as vicious or dangerous to prevent ownership. Furthermore, the state health department has instituted a rabies quarantine on foxes. Species allowed: Exotic foxes only. It is not known how obtainable these permits are. For foxes, the enclosure must be a minmum of 8 feet by 6 feet by 6 feet high for a single animal (more if there will be more than one animal). Those with a USDA license will be subject to unannounced, periodic inspections from the USDA’s Animal and Plant Inspection Service (APHIS). After doing your research, check out if the laws allow you to have one then you are free to get your own cute little fox. Laws About Keeping a Fennec Fox as a Pet. Like cats, they will have an independent and aloof personality, as well as skittishness. It is unknown if this applies to foxes in Category 2. The animals must be captive-bred, not taken from the wild. Source: North Dakota Department of Agriculture, All fox species (presumably) appear to require a "Noncommercial propagating license" because they are considered to be ‘fur-bearing animals’. Looking for information on fennec foxes as pets or where to find them for sale? Source: Kentucky Legislative Research Commission. You will also need an importation permit if the animal is being imported from out of state. However, the state allows individual municipalities to make rules about a pit bull's keeping and care. https://didyouknowpets.com/exotic-pets-that-are-legal-to-own Please contact the agency listed in the law to request more information about that law. Laws vary from state to state, but some states also require permits for anyone wishing to keep (not necessarily breed) a Fennec Fox on their property. The animals listed below are examples of the exotic species regulated under Georgia Law. This leaves a limited number of places where the fox can be obtained. I have met other people that also want fennec foxes to be legal in Washingt Arkansas; Indiana; Michigan; Nebraska; New York; North Carolina (technically, but ordinance’s language is vague and can be re-interpreted) Ohio; Oklahoma; Tennessee; Montana; Wyoming; New Mexico; Florida (with obtainable class 3 permit) “Fennec Fox” by Andy Hay is licensed under CC BY 2.0 The catch to a small cage is that the fox must have ample time to come out to play and burn off energy. This list is as inclusive as possible for states that allow any species of fox. Source: Oklahoma Administrative Code and Register. Source: South Dakota Department of Agriculture. Most parts of the United States have some regulations regarding fennecs—from outright bans to simply requiring a permit. So Here I have mentioned four Different Breeds of Pet Foxes: Pet Fennec Foxes Jerboas as Pets: Feeding, Housing, and Personality, Lion Attack Should Not Change North Carolina's Exotic Animal Laws, A kit fox rests on a rock Renne Grayson CC BY-2.0 Via Flickr. The list includes the states of Idaho, North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Utah. There are many fennec fox owners in North Carolina that claim they’ve had no problems. This license costs $25. In order ensure that a fox is legal to own where you live, you must do your own research by calling state officials. The fennec fox, or fennec (Vulpes zerda), is a small crepuscular fox found in the Sahara of North Africa, the Sinai Peninsula, South East Israel (Arava desert) and the Arabian desert.Its most distinctive feature is its unusually large ears, which also serve to dissipate heat. This probably means that exotic foxes are legal without a permit. This includes all the fox species that are available in the pet trade with the exception of the bat-eared fox (Otocyon megalotis). Native foxes, except for the red fox, require a permit (Chapter 10) to import and possess from the Department. Unfortunately, this permit only allows the holder to obtain the animal from within the state from a breeder who holds a wildlife breeders permit, and apparently there are no breeders in the state. A quick search of fennec fox videos on Youtube shows just how energetic and noisy they can be. Fennec foxes are legal in many more states than foxes (red, silver, arctic) and wolves. This large creature is famous for having an odor that resembles popcorn. This means raw meat, feeder insects, fresh vegetables, and rodents. It is illegal to possess wild animals in Washington. All fox species require a Possession permit which costs $10 an animal to a maximum of $100. It is also specified that some Category 2 species require a Permit to Possess, Propagate, or Domesticate from the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, which is distributed from the Animal Health Division of the North Dakota Department of Agriculture. A high quality commercial diet will ensure that your pet is getting a nutritionally balanced meal. Luckily, being desert animals, fennec foxes have relatively dry droppings that are easy to clean, and less urine. Some states ban them outright. Can you own a fox in Texas? Ranch-raised foxes are ‘domesticated’ forms of red foxes. Each baby comes with feeding supplies and a sample of food. You are unlikely to secure any food sources that a fennec fox will find in the wild, so the logic of a ‘natural’ diet doesn’t make much sense. Kansas Administrative Regulation 115-20-3 The Kansas administration regulation 115-20-3 states that anyone can own an exotic pet provided the pet has been acquired in a legal … The cost of the permit is $33 and it is only for animals that are captive-bred. However, the (current at that time in 2017) state veterinarian has confirmed to one caller that this pertains to native foxes (red, grey) and not exotic foxes like fennec foxes. If your state is not on this list it’s likely that a fox species is not legal and to find out otherwise will require firm confirmation from a state official. Approximately 11 states require permits for the possession of at least one fox species that it allows. Some numbers: Approximately 14 states allow the private possession of red foxes. But not so fast; before considering adding this tiny fox to your household, be sure that you understand what you’re getting into. Exotic foxes are not legal to possess due to environmental concerns. Unfortunately, legal exotic pet ownership is on the decline because it receives little support or cultural acceptance. Fennec foxes are the only species of fox legal in New York State because fennec fox owners got into contact with lawmakers and brought their pets in to sway this decision. Be sure to read your state’s laws before getting any breed of the fox as a pet. Source: Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. States where you can legally own a fox: Arkansas, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, Tennessee, and Wyoming. Approximately 13 states allow the private possession of fennec foxes. Raw or cooked meat, eggs, and frozen feeder mice can be added to supplement the diet and provide enrichment. Others are regulated and controlled with permits; however this is rarely, if ever, given to private pet owners. as pets in Texas regardless of where they came from. This state may or may not allow foxes. In this article a pet owner is NOT a USDA-licensed facility that does exhibition or educational work. The cost of the application is $45. For example, Fennec foxes are illegal as pets in California. This might mean they are legal without a permit. North Carolina (technically, but ordinance’s language is vague and can be re-interpreted). You can encourage foxes to go in one area with positive reinforcement, or just place a litter box where they tend to go most often. The Sunshine state has a requirement for a Class 3 Wildlife license to own any defined Class 3 exotic animal, which includes foxes. We have Fennec Foxes for sale in Texas and can arrange transportation for out of state homes! You will likely need to use a breeder that won’t be located near you so shipping with an Airline will be a necessity, unless you are willing to drive out to pick up your kit (this is recommended if possible). With exotics, it’s always best to let them come to you. They also lack the potent scent glands that are common in so many animals. However, a permit is not needed to own a fennec fox (Vulpes zerda). Large carnivores like lions, tigers, and bears are illegal to own, as are apes, baboons, and … State officials will determine if your enclosure is adequate for the species being applied for. Some states were inconclusive because they may allow foxes with a permit but this permit has been said to be difficult or impossible for a ‘pet owner’ to get. While fennecs are omnivorous, it is often stated that they need higher levels of taurine in their diets like cats; therefore many are fed cat food. Exotic foxes are not mentioned, so likely aren’t regulated by this department. They are adapted to living in a low-water environment, consuming the majority of their water intake from plants. Approximately 14 states allow the private possession of red foxes. Before buying a fox, finding out your local laws is the first step before doing essential research to determine if a fox would make a good pet for you. Particularly when their owners come home, they will squeal with delight. Some states appear to allow foxes with permits that they will not give you, such as Maine and Delaware. Some states fennec foxes may be legal to keep in, “Fennec Fox” by Andy Hay is licensed under CC BY 2.0. States including Florida, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Texas require either a permit or health certificate for fennec foxes. Some states don’t even list them at all. Source: North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. You’ll also want to use a breeder that will give you honest information on how to care for the animal and what it’s like. Fennec fox has the largest ears in fox family so their hearing sensitivity is one of their most important tools when they are hunting for food. Jerboas as Pets: Feeding, Housing, and Personality, Lion Attack Should Not Change North Carolina's Exotic Animal Laws. Category 2: Kit of swift fox, red fox, grey fox. Still, one must be careful not to invite consternation at the thought of someone trying to obtain a ‘dangerous wild animal’ that might lead to a ban where there previously wasn’t one. Some states fennec foxes may be legal to keep in. Here is a list of some states where fennec foxes (not all foxes) are probably legal for average people to own without a special license or exhibitor permit. Different Breeds of Pet Foxes. Source: Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Arkansas. Simply ask for the written laws pertaining to the ownership of exotic pets. That status of non-native fox legality is unclear. New York statutes list the fennec fox as a companion animal. These states have rules and regulations that strictly detain anyone from owning one of these creatures. Whether or not this permit is distributed to pet owners is unclear, therefore they might not technically be legal. Its name comes from the Berber-Arabic word (fanak), which means fox. Others make foxes legal to own in the state but illegal to import, and with no breeders in the state, this is the same thing as banning them. Most people think that foxes belong in a zoo or in the wild, and this sentiment often contributes to states, cities, and towns pushing to ban alternative pets. The fennec fox is native to North Africa but is no stranger to California. In addition, to import any fox from out-of-state, you will be required to obtain a one-time importation permit, presumably this is given to pet owners for the cost of $25. Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Species allowed: All (if permit is given to pet owners). The only legal species of fox is the red fox (Vulpes vulpes). I even considered moving to another state where they are legal, but then I found this and decided to start a petition. Permit Required: No, except for vet certificate for imports. These are playful animals that enjoy interacting with their ownrs, which is not something you will always get with non-traditional pets. Technically, North Carolina’s ordinance states that a ‘fox’ will require a permit (that is not given to pet owners). Never expect exotic pets to be consistent with litter box use, if they use it at all, but some individuals are better than others. Be realistic about what to expect from an animal that is a fox species, not a pet selectively-bred by humans to be unusually docile and adaptable to typical pet-keeping practices. Live-Animal Transportation Information Airline shipping is available to … What is known is that a permit (wildlife hobby permit) can be given for native species of fox (they fall under Class 1 Wildlife), which are red and grey foxes. No North Carolina natives. The license costs $10 and needs to be renewed annually. Fennecs can also accept pet-friendly fruits and vegetables. There is conflicting information about Missouri from different sources. To get this permit, certain enclosure specifications and other rules apply. They are also legal in: Ohio, Florida, Wisconsin, Arkansas, and Michigan, and there are likely to be others. Foxes must be purchased from USDA-licensed facilities. Before even considering a pet fennec fox, you’ll want to ensure the species is legal in your state. So although they are foxes, these little guys measure in way under the normal weight range.One of the most distinguished features that Fennec foxes are known for is their rather large ears. Two native fox species, red and grey foxes, cannot be imported from the following states and countries: Alaska, Arizona, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Texas, Vermont, Wisconsin, Wyoming or Canada. When I found out that they're not legal I was crushed. Many animals are illegal to own, transport, and import into Washington State. Plus, some local laws might conflict with state laws, so be sure to … The chances you may be able to care for a pet fox depend on the breed and where you live. Breaking Down Exotic Animal Laws by State. Fennec foxes come from the Sahara of North Africa and are nocturnal. Answer: No foxes are legal in California. ; Alopex lagopus; Urocyon cinereoargenteus. Four states, including Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, and Washington ban fennec foxes altogether, while Florida, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and Texas require a … Therefore, exercise caution. This is mostly due to a bias against ‘unusual’ animals being kept as pets and the perception that owning anything other than a dog or cat is “unnecessary”. There aren’t many places to buy foxes, and there are some well-known breeders in Indiana, Texas, and Ohio. Some states allow them with permits, but the local municipality does not. While foxes are technically legal in Kentucky, the foxes in the following genus are illegal to import, making them impossible to obtain since there are no breeders in the state: Vulpes spp. ** Foxes. Having a fox as a pet is allowed in Michigan, Maine, Indiana, Arkansas (all species), Illinois, Mississippi, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming (only local grey & red foxes), Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, Missouri, New York (only fennec foxes), North Carolina, North Dakota, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Utah (only red foxes). Such vaccine-development requires expensive research that has only been conducted for the most typical pet species (dogs, cats, and ferrets) and farm animals. Non-native foxes are Class 3 animals and only require an import permit if being imported from out of state. “Fennec fox not happy with her collar” by eileenmak is licensed under CC BY 2.0. This includes security, next boxes, shade, bedding, ect. New York specifically excludes them from the definition of a "wild" animal. The so-called Russian domesticated foxes are extremely rare in the U.S. (only a handful of individuals exist in North America) and can only be imported from Russia (they will be spayed or neutered). "Fennec Fox" by Marit & Toomas Hinnosaar is licensed under CC BY 2.0. Exotic pet laws change constantly, and just because something is legal in your state doesn’t mean it is legal in your city, town, or even neighborhood association. Owning a Fennec fox as a … I have always wanted a fennec fox and was planning on getting one until I did some research and found out that they are not legal in Washington state. They are extremely fast and excitable. Hybrids or crosses between any combination of domestic animals, wildlife, or regulated wild animals and all subsequent generations are regulated in Georgia and may not be held … Source: Missouri Department of Conservation. There are several state agencies that regulate animal ownership. However, this permit is easily obtainable, and exotic pet ownership is more popular in the state as a result. People feed their fennec foxes various diets. The tail has a black tip and is 18-31 cm long, while the ears can be up to 10-15 cm in length. The most commonly available domesticated foxes are those which originate from the fur trade. Exotic foxes such as fennec foxes appear to be legal without a permit requirement, but they must have a health certificate if imported from out of state. Native foxes (reds and greys) are Class 2 animals that require a permit which is reportedly distributed to pet owners. They are omnivorous, consuming small animals, insects, plants and eggs. Native foxes (reds and grays) are illegal to own as pets in the state of Tennessee. Others make foxes legal to own in the state but illegal to import, and with no breeders in the state, this is the same thing as banning them. As a relatively new type of exotic pet, fennec foxes are a mixed bag when it comes to the laws: Some states allow them without permits. Some owners report that their pet fennec foxes will use a litter box, but most say their use of these receptacles are sporadic at best, and the foxes will think nothing of depositing droppings during cage outings. Additionally, state laws are frequently changing as concerns for public safety and animal wellbeing develop further, so you should always double check to see if there is any new or proposed state or local legislation. With strict California laws if a residence is found to own a fennec fox the state kills the small cuddly creature. **No person, firm, corporation, partnership, or association, shall transport within the state, any member of the above-stated species (whether such member originated within or without the state), except for properly licensed game-breeders pursuant to Section 9-11-31, Code of Ala. Fennec fox kits are placed into homes at a young age to allow proper bonding. This state requires a Captive Wildlife Permit for grey and red foxes. Source: Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife, Permit Required: All species except fennec foxes. Species that are native to the United States often have different rules than exotic foxes. The legal jargon: Sec. A good cage will ensure the comfort of your pet and will encourage a positive relationship between the two of you. Laws about owning a fennec fox vary widely depending on the jurisdiction. This law is part of WAC 220-450-030, which states that taking from the wild, importation, possession, transfer, and holding in captivity of live wildlife is unlawful. Red foxes only require an importation permit. 1975. Sometimes people feed live mice, but this is utterly unnecessary and not a humane option. When you apply for this permit, and inspection of the enclosure will be made to ensure it meets the proper specifications. The following information was gathered through the use of several resources with the hopes of finding the most current laws (this information was collected in November, 2018). They are often touted as one of the ‘easier’ exotic pets to maintain as a house pet, as they are seen as clean and can be kept in a relatively small enclosure. Source: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, "Red Fox Pup(s) Morro Bay, CA 28 May 2008" by mikebaird is licensed under CC BY 2.0. Still, because of the wording of the ordinance, the status of this law could be challenged should a new state veterinarian re-interpret it. Like many states, the two species of fox that are native to the United States, the red and grey fox, require a permit for possession. With an animal that is so high energy, enough room to perform species-specific behaviors is a must. You’re not alone. Also called a … The majority of tigers live as pets, not in the wild. However, aside from this, Indiana is considered to be a relatively ‘exotic pet friendly’ state. About 5,000 tigers live in legal captivity in more … A noncommercial wildlife breeder’s license is needed for native fox species and presumably other species except the fennec fox, which requires no permits to keep. Unfortunately, animals in the fox family are commonly banned in most states because wild, native foxes are rabies vectors and there are no approved rabies vaccines for them. Binturong. One former fox owner claimed that exotic foxes are legal and don’t require a permit, but several sources (with no references cited) claim exotic species like fennecs and arctic foxes aren’t legal. The Department should be consulted before any exotic animals which are not normally domesticated in Georgia are acquired. Licensed breeders are aloud to house the pet but have trouble selling to a open market inside California. Many states’ regulations have been unchanged for years, however, it is not impossible for any of the below information to be incorrect, therefore if there is any confusion about the legality of an animal that you are serious about obtaining, you may need to verify that information by calling the proper governing bodies. Each household is only allowed up to 6 native wild animals (foxes, squirrels, raccoons, and some other species). Since fennecs are not really domesticated, many owners feel they should feed them a diet similar to what they would get in the wild. Their large ears aid in thermoregulation and are also sensitive to detect prey underground. 3.25. Still, being foxes, don’t expect to grab them and cuddle them as some common domesticated animals will allow. Foxes are considered to be ‘non-traditional livestock’. There is some confusion that red foxes are legal in New York, but they aren’t. The permit appears to be available to the general public, and also includes owners who’ve owned the animals before the rule was enacted (no grandfather clause). They are legal in Pennsylvania and Nebraska as pets though. You must acquire a Permit To Hold Game In Captivity (PR1350) in order to possess grey and all color phases of red foxes. The fennec fox weighs 0.68-1.59 kg in average, body length is 24-41 cm, and their height is around 20.3 cm. Non-native foxes, such as Fennec Foxes and Arctic Foxes, are legal to own in the state of Tennessee without a permit. Fennec foxes are slightly more adaptable to domestic conditions than other uncommon exotic mammals, and you can ‘get away’ with somewhat small housing, such as a foldable, standard-sized cat cage. This outlier may technically be legal to import due to a loophole, which means obtaining this animal would almost certainly invite the interest of state officials. Fortunately, many fox owners get this cuddly down time with their animals at some point, once they calm down. Sometimes exotics are offered for sale online, but it is illegal for anyone without a USDA license to sell them. First, if you’re considering a fennec fox as a pet, check quickly to make sure whether it’s legal to do so in your area. You may be able to get a permit if you do exhibition at a library, school, media, ect. Approximately 11 states require permits for the possession of at least one fox species that it allows. A reasonable recommendation for caging are two attached Ferret Nation cages or something similarly-sized, but bigger is of course better and will make caring for the fox easier. These Chihuahua-sized canids are becoming increasingly popular exotic animals that people seek to own, and for good reason.