Can You Have a Pet Raccoon in Canada?

Can You Have a Pet Raccoon in Canada?

Raccoons have a way of stealing hearts with their cute faces, curious eyes, and clever little paws. They’re about the size of a small dog and can look absolutely adorable. Many people are fascinated by the idea of keeping raccoons as pets.

But don’t let their charm fool you. Beneath that cuteness lies a wild nature that can be dangerous to you or your family.

So, the big question is: Is it legal and even wise to keep a raccoon as a pet in Canada?

Let’s uncover the facts and laws behind it.

Can You Own a Raccoon in Canada?

The crystal-clear answer is a big No. You’ll be surprised to know that raccoon can run up to 15 miles per hour, grow over two feet long, and weigh up to 24 pounds. Thinking about them as a pet might sound fun, but it’s not that simple (we’ll lift the veil after this part).

Raccoons are officially considered wildlife, and in Canada, they’re actually on the
prohibited animals list. This means you can’t just bring one home like a dog or cat.

Across Canada, both federal and provincial laws regulate the ownership of wild animals like raccoons. For example, in Ontario, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act clearly states that it’s illegal to own a raccoon without a special permit. Similarly, British Columbia’s Wildlife Act also bans people from keeping raccoons as pets.

However, in a few cases, you can have them, but not as household pets. This means you can legally own a raccoon in Canada only if you are a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or have a valid scientific or educational purpose.

Why raccoons as pets could spell trouble?

Here’s exactly why spending a life with raccoons is a bad idea.

1.They are non-domesticated animals

These animals are wild by nature and not meant to live indoors. They need lots of space and mental stimulation. According to research, when kept in cages or small rooms, they quickly become bored and destructive. So, instead of a pet, they act more like troublemakers tearing through your home.

2. They thrive in wild environments

Raccoons live in family groups and need nature to stay happy and healthy. When you take them from the wild, they feel scared and lonely, and their families suffer too. This also harms the environment, as these trash pandas play an important role in the food chain. So, keeping them as pets causes stress for them and for nature.

3. They have destructive behavioral traits

Sure, you’ve heard many cute raccoon pet names – but their behavior? Not so cute. They climb everything, scratch walls, chew wires, and often bite or scratch when scared. After sexual maturity (around 6 months), they can become aggressive.

Plus, their nocturnal habits can cause disruptive noises at night. Opening doors and tearing things apart is child’s play for them. That’s why raccoon pet care requires constant supervision. Many pet specialists don’t even consider them suitable pets, as they might attack other animals in your home.

4. They carry serious health risks

Many studies have found that raccoons can spread several diseases, including rabies, leptospirosis, and a dangerous roundworm called Baylisascaris. What’s scary is that just coming into contact with their poop can put you, your family, and even your pets at risk.

The eggs of these worms can survive in your home and yard, and if accidentally swallowed, they can cause severe brain and nerve damage.

5. Very few vets treat raccoons

One big and last reason for not having raccoons as pets is finding a vet who will treat them. The shocking part is that most vets don’t work with these mammals because they’re considered wild animals.

And even basic care like rabies shots can be hard to get -or even illegal in some areas. That means if your raccoon gets sick, injured, or runs away, you might be completely stuck with no help.

Moreover, the few vets who do treat raccoons charge a lot. So, before you even think about keeping one as a pet, know that
medical care could be a real nightmare.

What if you illegally own a raccoon?

Indeed, you extend a pet raccoon’s lifespan up to 20 years in captivity, but it would still be considered illegal – even if it hasn’t hurt anyone. For example, according to the Animals Bylaw, in Toronto, you can be fined $240 just for having one.

Across Canada, different provinces have wildlife acts that could lead to even hefty fines or jail time. Authorities may also seize the animal.

After all, these laws exist for a reason: raccoons can carry diseases and don’t belong in homes. So, following the law helps protect both people and wildlife from harm.