Tennessee Bill Could Ease Pet Raccoon Ownership – But Should You Receive One?
Nashville, Tenn. – A new bill making its way through the Tennessee legislature could significantly change the landscape for those dreaming of owning a raccoon. Senate Bill 2354, sponsored by Senator Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald) and Representative Kip Capley (R-Summertown), proposes to waive the current $31 personal possession permit fee for raccoons meeting specific criteria.
What Does the Bill Actually Do?
Currently, owning a raccoon in Tennessee requires a permit. This bill wouldn’t eliminate the permit requirement entirely, but it would remove the associated fee. However, to qualify, the raccoon must:
- Be obtained from a legal source and be vaccinated.
- Be non-native and not captured from the wild.
- Have a possession permit issued by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
While the fee is relatively small, the bill signals a potential shift in how the state views private ownership of these often-misunderstood animals.
Finding a Legal Raccoon: It’s Not as Easy as You Think
Don’t expect to find a raccoon at your local pet store. Normal pet stores generally don’t deal with native wild animals due to the complex legal requirements and paperwork involved, including both state wildlife laws and federal USDA regulations. Finding a licensed dealer in Tennessee will be challenging.
One online dealer, Lentz Exotic Pets, currently offers raccoons for $850, requiring a $450 deposit to join a waiting list. Importing a raccoon from out of state requires an additional importation permit.
The Reality of Raccoon Ownership: A Word of Caution
Even with the potential easing of regulations, experts caution against impulsive raccoon ownership. Exotic Pet Wonderland in Knoxville highlights that many owners are unprepared for the complexities of caring for these animals, often leading to abandonment or rehoming. They emphasize the need for a long-term commitment and a thorough understanding of raccoon behavior and needs.
One individual recounted a personal experience from over 50 years ago, successfully raising a raccoon from a young age, but acknowledged that raccoons, even when seemingly tame, retain their wild instincts.
The core message is clear: a raccoon is not a domesticated animal, and potential owners must be prepared for the challenges that come with caring for a wild creature.
Raccoons in Tennessee: A Growing Population
Raccoons are becoming increasingly common, even in urban areas. Populations have increased as fur prices have declined, reducing commercial trapping. They are known for their intelligence and adaptability, sometimes even learning garbage pickup schedules and navigating neighborhoods with ease.
The Rabies Risk
Wild raccoons are known carriers of diseases, including rabies. The USDA annually distributes vaccine-laced bait to assist control the spread of rabies among wild raccoon populations.
FAQ: Tennessee Raccoon Ownership
- Will this bill make it legal to simply catch a raccoon in the wild and keep it as a pet? No. The bill specifically requires the raccoon to be non-native and not captured from the wild.
- How much will it cost to own a raccoon if this bill passes? The permit fee will be waived, but you’ll still need to cover the cost of the raccoon itself (potentially $850 or more), vaccinations, and ongoing care.
- Where can I find a legal raccoon breeder in Tennessee? Finding a licensed breeder will be difficult. You may need to glance out of state and obtain an importation permit.
- Are raccoons excellent pets? Experts caution that raccoons are not domesticated and require specialized care. They can be challenging to manage and may exhibit unpredictable behavior.
Pro Tip: Before considering raccoon ownership, research the specific laws and regulations in your local area and consult with a veterinarian experienced in exotic animal care.
Do you have experience with raccoons? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
