Hedgehogs are exempt from a rule set in place to regulate the “ collection, importation, and possession ” of wild animals. This makes hedgehogs legal to own and keep as pets in the state of Utah. It is legal to keep hedgehogs as pets in Vermont.
Where can’t you own a hedgehog?
There are many other places where you can’t own a hedgehog including Nebraska, and Windsor, among others. The laws and regulations governing ownership and rearing of hedgehogs are quite dynamic in most states.
Is it legal to own a Hedgehog in Alabama?
In Alabama, while many exotic animals are prohibited to own as pets, hedgehogs are perfectly legal.
Are hedgehogs allowed in California?
There is a specific list of animals allowed by the state law. If any animal is not expressly listed there, then it is implied the animal is prohibited under state law. California is known for its strict laws against exotic pets. Being an exotic pet, hedgehogs are banned in entirety in this state.
Is it illegal to own a Hedgehog in Hawaii?
Hawaii's way of making hedgehog ownership illegal is by a law of omission. Let us explain. They have a law that has lists of animals that fall into one of four categories: And if you read each and every list, hedgehog does not appear on any of them.
What states is it legal to have a pet hedgehog?
The Short Answer. Hedgehogs are legal in all of New England and most of the United States. Unfortunately, hedgehogs are still illegal or restricted in: California.
Are hedgehogs good pets?
Hedgehogs can be a fun and low-maintenance pet for your household, but they do need some special care. They have sharp quills that can make handling difficult. Consistent and proper daily handling will help them relax and feel comfortable with you.
How much do hedgehogs cost?
between $100 to $300The average cost to buy a hedgehog can run between $100 to $300. The cost will depend on the age of the hedgehog, how friendly they are, and their coloring.
Why is it illegal to own a hedgehog in some states?
All species are restricted from possession as pets in California primarily because they can become pests where introduced into the wild where they don't naturally occur. There are also many unknown questions related to natural predators and potential diseases when any non-native animal is introduced into the wild.
Are hedgehogs stinky?
Hedgehogs don't have any scent glands like ferrets, skunks, or even cats! So when we're clean, we don't have any particular scent. Like any animal, if they aren't kept clean, they begin to smell funky. Since domestic hedgehogs are caged animals, we walk through whatever is in our cage.
Why are hedgehogs illegal?
Nevertheless, the quills can still penetrate skin and hedgehogs can transmit diseases such as ringworm and salmonella to humans. Like ferrets, however, the main reason hedgehogs are illegal in California, however, is due to the risk escaped and abandoned hedgehogs pose to native wildlife.
Can you buy a hedgehog at PetSmart?
Local Pet Stores. You usually can't find hedgehogs in the large chain stores like PetSmart, but many of the smaller independently owned pet stores have them. Check your local listings in your area and call the stores for availability.
How long does a hedgehog live?
Woodland hedgehogs: 2 – 5 yearsHedgehog / LifespanErinaceus is a genus of hedgehog from the family of Erinaceidae. There are four main species of Erinaceus. The range is all across Europe, throughout the Middle East, parts of Russia, and extending to northern China and Korea. The European hedgehog has been introduced to New Zealand. Wikipedia
Do pet hedgehogs bite?
However, you should try to use gloves when handling a hedgehog for your own health and safety. Hedgehogs can bite you, but very rarely will that happen. This usually happens when they are young and think your fingers are going to feed them (if they have been fed via a syringe as they had no mother).
Can you keep a wild hedgehog as a pet?
The answer is a resounding no! It is important to remember that hedgehogs are wild animals, which belong within their own complex ecosystem where they can be given the opportunity to thrive. From time to time we may run into a hedgehog that looks underweight or physically injured.
Do hedgehogs like to be held?
Every hedgehog has a unique personality, but most aren't interested in human affection. Caretakers note that it takes a lot of time and effort to get a hedgehog to tolerate being held. Like porcupines, hedgehogs have sharp, prickly quills that they use to fend off predators.
Are hedgehogs good pets for kids?
Hedgehogs. These spiny mammals may not make cuddly pets, but they're cute, friendly, and relatively long-lived, with a lifespan of five to seven years. And if hedgehogs are handled while still young, they will grow to be social with your child. The downside is that you might find yourself spending more money on them.
In Which US States Is It Legal To Own A Hedgehog?
I’ll go into more detail in the following, but to give you a brief overview of the US states where it’s legal or illegal to keep a hedgehog as a pet, I’ll summarize.
Why Are Hedgehogs Illegal In Some States?
In almost all cases, the reasons for prohibiting the possession of hedgehogs point to the ecosystem.
Australia
It is illegal to import, breed, and possess hedgehogs in all of Australia.
Canada
In Canada, you can legally own a hedgehog, but it has to be the four-toed “African Pygmy” hedgehog. European hedgehogs are illegal all over the country.
United Kingdom
In the UK, the European hedgehog exists in the wild. It is, however, on a decline, which is quite worrying. Because of this, UK authorities have made the European hedgehog a protected species. This means that it is illegal to hunt, but also possess it.
Where are hedgehogs legal?
Hedgehogs are legal in all of New England and most of the United States . Unfortunately, hedgehogs are still illegal or restricted in: California. Georgia. Hawaii. Pennsylvania. The Five Boroughs of New York City. Hedgehogs may require a permit and/or certificate of veterinary inspection in: New Jersey.
What is a household pet in Wisconsin?
Per State of Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection: A "household pet" is an animal from a traditional companion animal species: dog, domestic cat, ferret, hedgehog, pet bird, rabbit, or domestic rodent (gerbil, guinea pig, hamster, or domestic mouse or rat).
Why are animals restricted in California?
All species are restricted from possession as pets in California primarily because they can become pests where introduced into the wild where they don’t naturally occur. There are also many unknown questions related to natural predators and potential diseases when any non-native animal is introduced into the wild.
Can hedgehogs be kept as pets?
The board added these three animals to the list of commonly accepted pets in the county’s zoning rules. This means they can be kept as household pets without any special permissions. Previously, hedgehogs were prohibited while chinchillas and hermit crabs required a special permit from the Board of Zoning Appeals.
Is it legal to have a hedgehog in New England?
Hedgehogs Are Now Legal in All of New England! Staying Legal. Before adding a hedgie to your family, it’s important to be sure that they are legal in your city, state, and county. Laws are continually changing so it’s best to contact your state Fish and Game Commission or Department of Fish and Wildlife and check your local regulations.
Do you need a permit for a hedgehog in Wyoming?
Many breeders and Wikipedia list hedgehogs as requiring a permit in Wyoming but do not cite a source. Per Wyoming Game and Fish Department hedgehogs do not require a permit! State Legal Resources. ALABAMA. Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Alabama Wildlife and Fresh Water Fisheries Division.
Is a dog considered a livestock in Wisconsin?
All other animals kept as pets, including dog hybrids, domestic cat hybrids, and exotic small cat species such as servals, are either considered livestock or exotic pets. "Importing" refers to animals being brought into Wisconsin during vacation travel as well as animals relocating permanently into the state.
What would happen if hedgehogs were released into the wild?
The major concern is that if domesticated hedgehogs were loose into the wild, there would be an upsurge of the wild population. This can cause an ecological imbalance, as well as make native endangered species extinct by competing for habitat.
Is it illegal to own a hedgehog?
Outlined below are some of the places where it’s illegal to own hedgehogs (in the US) and the laws around them.
Is a hedgehog a good pet?
Hedgehogs are one of the few exotic animals that people domesticate in their homes. They make exceptionally good pets, especially due to their low maintenance and character. However, before you make that decision to own a hedgehog, it is imperative that you consider the laws governing the place you live. This is due to the fact that ...
Can you own a hedgehog in Nebraska?
Conclusion. There are many other places where you can’t own a hedgehog including Nebraska, and Windsor, among others. The laws and regulations governing ownership and rearing of hedgehogs are quite dynamic in most states. It is therefore important that you keep your tabs open if you are in the hedgehog business to ensure you are not on ...
Is it illegal to have a hedgehog in California?
California. California is known for its strict laws against exotic pets. Being an exotic pet, hedgehogs are banned in entirety in this state. Hedgehogs are considered harmful animals in California since they are not native.
Can you own a hedgehog in Hawaii?
It is presumed that since they are not native to Hawaii, they have no predators. This means their population is likely to grow rapidly with no natural check. This is why the state prohibits owning hedgehogs. If found with one, the state will impound it and you can even be fined.
Is it legal to own a hedgehog in Pennsylvania?
There is a tough law against the handling of hedgehogs in Pennsylvania. Initially in the 90’s, owning hedgehogs was legal in this state, but what was not allowed was importing hedgehogs from other states. This law was grossly abused by breeders, and this led to the total ban on hedgehog breeding and owning.
What animals are allowed in Utah?
Any pets other than cats, dogs or birds are considered on a case-by-case basis. This includes rodents, reptiles, and amphibians. Exotic animals entering Utah shall be accompanied by an official Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (Health Certificate) and may require a Certificate of Registration (COR) from the Division of Wildlife Resources.
How long do you have to hold a live bird in Utah?
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources requires that individuals who desire to hold live game birds for more than 60 days apply for and receive a Certificate of Registration (COR) for an aviculture installation prior to receiving the birds.
What is the UDAF number for live aquatic animals?
A list of approved sources is maintained by UDAF, and may be obtained by contacting the UDAF Fish Health Program at (801) 982-2246.
What is an import permit in Utah?
An import permit is required to import live aquatic animals or their eggs into Utah from any location outside the state. This permit is in addition to the COR for operation of the facility. Import permits may be obtained by contacting the UDAF Fish Health Program at (801) 982-2246 and providing the following information:
How old do bulls have to be to enter Utah?
All bulls twelve months of age and older, entering Utah, must be tested with an approved test for trichomoniasis by an accredited veterinarian prior to entry into Utah. Bulls that have had contact with female cattle subsequent to testing must be retested prior to entry.
What is needed to import cattle into Utah?
All cattle entering Utah, except those going directly to an inspected slaughter establishment or approved auction market, require the following: Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (Health Certificate) Import permit. Brand inspection certificate or proof of ownership.
Do elk eggs need a vet certificate?
Elk semen, eggs, or gametes imported to Utah require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection stating: “The source animals have been tested for genetic purity for Rocky Mountain Elk genes and have never resided on premises where CWD has been identified.”.
What animals can you own in Nevada?
You may own primates, elephants, camels, wolves, ostriches, alpacas, zebras, non-domesticated felines, and many other animals without a permit or license. Animals that are prohibited include alligators, crocodiles, raccoons, bats, coyotes, moose, venomous snakes, and foxes.
What animals are not allowed in Idaho?
The Idaho State Department of Agriculture forbids any "deleterious" animal or hybrid that can be a threat to livestock, the environment, agriculture, or wildlife. Forbidden animals include big cats, non-native canines, primates, hedgehogs, opossum, and wild boar. You can obtain permits from the Idaho Department of Agriculture to keep forbidden animals . You do not require permits to keep llamas, alpacas, chinchillas, guinea pigs, or minks.
What animals are not allowed to be pets in California?
The California Natural Resources Agency has banned most wild animals, including seals, bighorn sheep, and falcons, from being as kept as pets in California. You are also prohibited from keeping all non-domestic canines and felines, elephants, crocodiles, and more. Exceptions to this law include cattle, alpacas, llamas, and camels.
What animals are prohibited in South Carolina?
Coyote, wolf, tiger, lion, non-native bear, and great apes are prohibited by South Carolina law except those owned or registered before January 2018. You need a permit to own bison, foxes, raccoons, bobcats, beaver, and deer. You do not need a permit to own monkeys, reptiles, amphibians, parrots, tropical fish, rabbits or small rodent pets like gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, and mice.
What animals do not need a permit in Delaware?
Pets that do not require a permit include chinchillas, hedgehogs, ferrets, opossum, rabbits, sugar gliders, and more. Many lizards are allowed, including anoles, water dragons, basilisks, bearded dragons, chameleons, geckos, iguanas, and more.
What are the animals that are illegal to own in Florida?
Class I animals include bears, large cats, rhinos, crocodiles, chimpanzees, and more. Class II includes howler monkeys, macaques, bobcats, cougars, cheetahs, alligators, wolves, giraffes, and more. A 2010 law forbids importing, selling, and releasing non-native species. This law further restricts capturing and keeping venomous reptiles and other reptiles of concern unless the owner already had a permit before the law. You do not need to have a permit to keep ferrets, parrots, hedgehogs, chinchillas, and other small rodents.
Can you keep a snake as a pet in Kansas?
Kansas state law does not allow dangerous regulated animals to be kept as pets unless you are a zoo, sanctuary, or other approved facility. Dangerous regulated animals include large cats, bears, and venomous snakes. Monkeys are allowed. Ferrets and monk parakeets are forbidden.
What state is not allowed to have exotic animals?
This is another frowny-face state if you are an exotic enthusiast. Colorado is a good example of a state where exotics are supposedly not allowed, but you can still keep very exotic animals like the iconic kangaroo, wallaroo, or wallaby. You can also own a possum, a sugar glider, and a hedgehog if you like.
What animals are prohibited as pets?
Prohibited animals appear to be exclusively defined as primates, non-domesticated felines including hybrids, and bears . Rabies-vector laws or native animal prohibitions may possibly restrict skunks, raccoons, and foxes. Exotic rodents, however, should be legal under these rules. And porcupines are classified as rodents. There are mixed reviews about how they are as pets. Some people really like them, others wouldn't have another as a pet.
How many foxes can you hold in Missouri?
That (and Missouri's admin code) authorizes you to hold no more than one red or grey fox, coyote, beaver, river otter, Eastern grey squirrel, bobcat, badger, or opossum for personal use.
What animals are exempt from a Delaware animal permit?
Exempted species are "Chinchillas, Degus, Ferrets, Gerbils, Guinea pigs, Hamsters, Hedgehogs, Mice, Norway rats, Possums, Rabbits and Sugar gliders" (6.1.1).
What animals are allowed in Florida?
Class 1 includes tigers, bears, and chimpanzees —and they cannot be "pets." Marmosets are tiny monkeys that are class 3 wildlife, and a permit to own them in Florida is pretty easy to get. All you have to do is answer some questions on the free application about the animal’s care, what you would do in event of an emergency, and your knowledge of the species. Before you commit to owning a marmoset though, you should know that they're really needy and require a lot of attention. They're not a good "just leave it be" pet.
What is an exotic animal?
For the purposes of this article, the term "exotic" shall refer to anything unusual, such as an animal you won't find in traditional pet stores or farms, not non-native animals.
Which state bans ferrets?
California: Savannah Cats. Exotic pet owners dread this state because it has some of the strictest exotic animals laws out there. This is a state that bans ferrets under the guise of protecting the environment—even though its inhabitants regularly defy the law, and invasive ferrets have not been observed.
Can ferrets be pets?
Ferrets may be owned as pets. Prohibited animals may be grandfathered in if they were registered with Animal Control by 01/01/2018. Some domestic mammals that can breed with free-roaming wild elk, sheep, and goats may only be kept east of the Missouri River. These include:
Can you own a monkey in South Carolina?
For example, South Carolina prohibits owning lions as pets, but you can still own a monkey.
Can you have exotic animals in New Mexico?
New Mexico. New Mexico does not specifically list any exotic animals that can be kept as pets. Though many New Mexico cities have much more stringent exotic pet laws than at the state level, some animals are forbidden as pets in the state of New Mexico, including: Felines. Crocodiles.
Is it illegal to have exotic pets in Washington?
Washington does not specifically list any allowed exotic pets, but does list pets that are prohibited. Washington prohibits certain animals as pets for different reasons. Washington considers certain animals too dangerous to keep as pets, including: Lions.
Can a raccoon be a pet?
Boomslangs. Twig snakes. Non-native raccoons may be kept as pets with proper certification of veterinary inspection and proof of legal ownership. Non-domestic animals require an entry permit and a certification of veterinary inspection within 30 days of entry into the state.
Can you keep a bear in South Dakota?
South Dakota will let you keep a bear on your property, but domestic pigs are prohibited. Many exceptions and qualifications apply to these exotic animal laws. Statutes often exempt people and organizations who possess exotic animals for exhibition, scientific, or educational purposes.
Can you be grandfathered in if you own an exotic animal?
Additionally, if you owned an exotic animal before a certain date, you may be grandfathered in if you registered or obtained a permit in time. However, even if you're allowed to own a certain type of animal, you may still be liable for any injuries or damage caused by your exotic pet, which can be severe.
