I. Introduction

Wild animals as pets are a popular idea among animal-lovers. However, owning one comes with several responsibilities and ethical considerations. In this article, we explore the pros and cons of having a raccoon as a pet, understand their characteristics, and examine the legal and ethical aspect of owning wild animals.

II. Why You Shouldn’t Have a Raccoon as a Pet: Insights from Experts

Wildlife experts generally agree that raccoons are not suitable as pets. According to the Humane Society of the United States, owning raccoons (or any wild animal) is illegal or restricted in several states. They are naturally destructive, often defecating in places they shouldn’t, and display aggressive behaviors when they want something, like food. Raccoons are potential carriers of disease, such as rabies, and if provoked, can cause severe injury.

III. Living with a Pet Raccoon: One Person’s Experience

Despite the aforementioned warnings, some people have lived with raccoons as pets. If you’re wondering what it would be like, living with a raccoon comes with both benefits and problems. For example, they can be affectionate, especially if they were raised in captivity. However, pet raccoons can be destructive, and the human-raised ones often have trouble adapting to the wild if they ever get released. On the other hand, a wild raccoon will destroy things when try to hold like a pet.

If you are still interested in keeping a raccoon as a pet, try to foster one from a young age when they are more likely to adapt. Be prepared to provide them with an environment that stimulates their natural habitat and provides enough space for them to engage in activities where they can exhibit natural behaviors. Ensure that you can provide them with an adequate diet, socialization, medical care, and companionship. For instance, raccoons are nocturnal animals. Hence, they require a lot of interaction during the night.

IV. Alternatives to Having a Raccoon Pet: Exotic Animals That Are Legal to Own

You might want to keep an exotic animal as a pet, but raccoons are not the only option. In the United States, owning a pet monkey is the easiest, while owning a pet tiger is the hardest, and is only allowed in some states. However, before you exploit this option, consider your capacity to provide care for the animal. Also, as a responsible pet owner, inquire about the legalities of owning the animal in your state or country.

Some examples of exotic animals that can be kept as pets include sugar gliders, hedgehogs, snakes, lizards, and birds. Ensure that you research each animal’s characteristics and care requirements to make an informed decision. Each animal you want to adopt has a unique set of needs, so ensure you can provide them with the necessary space, diet, and attention.

V. The Pros and Cons of Owning an Exotic Pet like a Raccoon

The pros of owning an exotic pet like a raccoon are that they are affectionate and have a unique personality. They can also be educational and are fascinating to watch. The cons, however, are numerous, such as the destructive nature of wild animals. They often destroy everything in their path, from your curtains to appliances. They aren’t suited to being domesticated and the emotional attachment can cause serious problems later on. It’s also essential to understand the risks involved. Some wild animals may carry significant diseases or parasites that can be transferred to humans or other pets, especially if they aren’t vaccinated.

VI. The Ethics of Keeping Wild Animals as Pets

The ethical considerations of owning a wild animal as a pet are many. For the animals, keeping them as pets can be detrimental to their health and welfare, especially if they are taken from their natural habitats. Often, animal trafficking and smuggling are primary sources of exotic pets, and their welfare is not a priority. As such, they end up suffering in horrid conditions. Conservation efforts also suffer, as certain animals face extinction due to exploitation.

From the pet owner’s side, owning a wild animal can have consequences, such as animal bites and scratches, leading to irreversible damage and diseases. It is always best to provide the animal with a natural environment where they can exhibit natural behaviors and live in harmony. Natural habitats can also facilitate species’ preservation, which is essential for the ecosystem and the future of our planet.

VII. What to Do if You Find a Raccoon that You Think is Abandoned

If you find a baby raccoon, the first instinct would be to take them home to care for them. However, please resist the urge to take them home. It’s best to take the animal to a wildlife rehabilitation center. Wildlife experts and professionals there can evaluate the animal’s condition, provide necessary medical care, and prepare the animal for release back into the wild. Remember, it is unethical and illegal to keep wild animals, such as raccoons, as pets without taking the proper steps.

VIII. Conclusion

In conclusion, having a raccoon as a pet comes with unique challenges and risks. Although they can be affectionate and charming, they are not suited, nor recommended, as pets. The most responsible decision is to resist taking in wild animals and turning them over to qualified wildlife experts who can rehabilitate them and release them back into the wild. In general, it’s essential to make sure that when keeping exotic pets, we ensure that they are adequately taken care of and are happy in our homes.