The world of exotic pet care is full of graceful, majestic, and fierce wild animals, from the raw strength of a grizzly bear to the graceful serenity of a wolf hybrid. But after the escape of 50 exotic animals near Zanesville, OH, in 2011, the state of Ohio enacted a series of laws that restricted people from owning exotic animals.

If you live in Ohio and have your heart set on owning an exotic pet, keep the following restrictions and prohibitions in mind. These laws are intended to keep you, your pet, and your community safe. Questions? Reach out to the Ohio Department of Agriculture, Division of Animal Health for detailed information about the permitting process.

Exotic Pet Care in Ohio: Restrictions You Should Know

As of September 2012, the state of Ohio prohibits the following:

• Auction sales of dangerous exotic pets

• Intentionally declawing or removing the teeth of a restricted animal

• Releasing a dangerous wild animal or venomous snake without restraint

• Intentionally removing a microchip from a dangerous wild animal

In short, you can’t get an exotic pet from an auction, and you have to ensure your pet is properly restrained. You also need to display proper signage to alert the general public that you have wild animals on your property.

The new law also restricts a range of wild animals, including hybrids of domestic animals. That means wolf-dog hybrids are under the same restrictions as exotic species like lions and elephants. A range of snake species is included if they’re venomous and 12 feet or longer, including green anacondas, Indian pythons, and boomslang snakes.

There are five permits available to owners under the Ohio Dangerous Wild Animal Act, depending on which animals you own and the nature of your ownership. For example, if you own a dangerous wild animal and don’t intend to breed your pet or get a new one, you need a Wildlife Shelter Permit. If you own a snake on the restricted species list and intend to breed, sell, or trade it, you need a Restricted Snake Propagation Permit.

If you’re an Ohio resident, you’ll need to ensure you’re following the proper permit procedures under the new law before you own a wild animal. When you’re a safe and responsible owner, exotic pet care can be fulfilling, rewarding, and exciting!

For over 30 years, the veterinarians at TLC Pet Care Centers have provided the Cincinnati, OH, area with compassionate, convenient animal care. This acclaimed animal hospital offers exotic pet care, pet boarding, and pet wellness services. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 683-2300 for the East location and (513) 825-4011 for the West location, or visit them online to meet their team of caring veterinarians!