Prairie dogs have long been regarded as a nuisance to farmers and ranchers, as they can cause extensive damage to crops and pastures. However, for some animal-lovers, these cute rodents can make for a great pet. If you’re looking for a unique pet, you may be wondering what states allow for the owning of prairie dogs. While it is not legal to own one in all states, some states do allow for their ownership as pets. This article will delve into the details of which states legally allow for the owning of prairie dogs as pets, along with tips for potential pet owners.
Four Wisconsin residents contracted monkeypox after coming into contact with prairie dogs that they kept as pets. Minnesota, like Wisconsin, does not have a large population of wild prairie dogs, which is illegal to import. burrowing rodents are becoming more popular as fad pets, according to a veterinarian.
This is one of ten states that allow the possession of prairie dogs, along with Florida, Kentucky, Nevada, Texas, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming. If you want to keep a prairie dog in one of these states, you won’t need any special paperwork; however, many of them allow local governments to set their own rules and regulations.
Nonvenomous and unprotected reptiles and amphibians, gerbils, hedgehogs, honey possums, sugar gliders, rats, mice, moles, shrews, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, and domestic ferrets are all exempt from the permit requirement.
There’s no doubt about it. The prairie dog is a socially active and active animal, which means that it will benefit more from an environment where it can interact with others of its kind while burrowing and running around the perimeter of the burrow as it sees fit. However, if you can mimic these environmental characteristics, they will thrive in captivity.
Most of these creatures are peaceful and cooperative, but their interactions can be contentious, necessitating competition in order for colony life to thrive. There are differences between species, such as the fact that some behaviors (such as grooming each other) are specific to a specific species (such as black-tail prairie dogs), but most behaviors are observed across all.
What States Can You Have Prairie Dog?

Pitbulls range from Arizona to Colorado, as well as New Mexico and Utah (USDAFSW 2008). There are populations of this species found at higher elevations (called montane populations) and lower elevations (called prairie populations), according to the US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS).
A prairie dog is a burrowing rodent native to the western United States. A tunnel and warren system in an underground burrow are shared by these animals. A prairie dog barks out warnings to the other animals in each burrow in order to keep the burrow secure. At Prairie Dog Town in Lubbock, Texas, the first Prairie Dog Preserve was established. Some zoos have prairie dog colonies that visitors can explore. The black-tailed, white-tailed, and Gunnison’s prairies are not at risk of extinction. Conservationists are concerned that maintaining healthy populations is critical to preserving these species.
A prairie dog town, also known as a prairie dog suburb, is a community of prairie dogs that live in the same habitat as humans. The largest recorded town was 100 miles by 250 miles in size and held 400 million acres of prairies. They are gentle and friendly to humans, just like other rodents, despite their advanced age.
In Massachusetts, it is illegal to keep wild animals as pets. According to the Code of Massachusetts Regulations (321 CMR 2.12), this is explicitly prohibited and detailed. Because of the fact that these animals require specialized care and their native habitats cannot be replicated in a home setting, they are frequently kept in specialized conditions. Furthermore, these animals can be dangerous to humans as well as other domesticated animals, as well as a nuisance to the surrounding environment. Furthermore, it should be noted that certain animals, such as prairie dogs, are not permitted to be brought into Wisconsin. It is critical to consider these regulations because they exist to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all animals and the people who live nearby.
Prairie Dogs: Not Allowed In Ny, Co, And Md
There are several reasons why prairie dogs are not legal to own in New York, Colorado, or Maryland. All large rodents, including prairie dogs, are considered prohibited in New York. In Colorado, it is illegal to own prairie dogs. In Maryland, prairie dogs have been illegal to own and sell since the mid-1980s, and any animals found there will be kept under quarantine to prevent the disease from spreading. It is generally illegal to own prairie dogs, so owning one may be possible depending on your state, but it may also result in legal problems.
Can You Own A Prairie Dog In The Us?

Prairie dogs are undeniably cute and have become increasingly popular as pets in the United States. However, potential owners should be aware that owning a prairie dog is not legal in all parts of the country. Not all states allow for the private ownership of prairie dogs. Additionally, some localities may require a special permit to keep one as a pet. Before getting a prairie dog, people should research their state and local laws to make sure they are allowed to own one.
One of five species of wild prairie dogs, the black-tailed prairie dog is an example of this. The Great Plains region of the United States is home to prairie dogs. In order to provide the best level of care possible, they require a long-term commitment from an owner who is dedicated to the mission. The prairie dog is diurnal, which means it is active in the day while sleeping at night. A prairie dog owner can train their pet prairie dog to behave on and off leash, and even teach it to come when called. The gender of a prairie dog does not make it a better pet than the gender of the person owning it. The prairie dog prefers temperatures in the 70s Fahrenheit range.
Prairie dogs in captivity eat a simple vegetarian diet consisting of pellets, fresh hay, grasses, fruits, vegetables, and water. Their systems may not be able to cope with extreme temperatures if they are kept outside without a burrow. Prairie dogs are generally available in the United States between April and July. Every spring and summer, thousands of prairie dog pups are vacuumed from their burrows in the United States. Wild prairie dogs are sold to the general public or as pets by USDA licensees.
Maryland’s wildlife protection has been a top priority for the state. Any importation, transportation, or release of live wild animals into the state is prohibited by the law (17-306). In Maryland, there has been a law in place since the mid-1980s that prevents the sale of wild animals. A shipment of exotic animals has since arrived in the state. Despite the fact that the animals were technically unwelcome, officials decided to quarantine them until the results of a primate study could be obtained proving that they were not infected with monkeypox. The decision is both commendable and consistent with the state’s core wildlife values, as it demonstrates the state’s commitment to protecting these animals’ lives.
Can You Legally Own A Prairie Dog In Minnesota?

Despite this, importing prairie dogs is still legal in Minnesota, which does not have a wild prairie dog population, and Wisconsin, which does not have a wild prairie dog population. Wisconsin prairie dogs that were received in Minnesota after April 1 are not permitted to enter the state.
Ground squirrels and prairie dogs have recently demonstrated the ability to survive in the harsh northern climate. The exact reason for their qualification, however, remains unknown, but it is likely the result of the 2005 monkeypox scare. Furthermore, the ability of monk and ring-neck parrots to survive in a Northern climate is also prohibited. Large rodents such as gophers, muskrats, pacas, woodchucks, marmots, beavers, capybaras, sewellel, viscachas, porcupines, and hutia have been able to live in the North, in addition to Furthermore, even-toed ungulates, such as deer, antelope, sheep, giraffe, and hippopotamus, have the ability to survive the harsh conditions of the Northern climate. Despite the harsh climate conditions, it is clear that many animals, both large and small, have adapted to live in the northern region.
Prairie Dogs As Pets Pros And Cons

Prairie dogs can make great pets, but there are pros and cons to consider before making the commitment. The pros include their intelligence, social nature, and cleanliness. They are also relatively easy to care for and can live up to 10 years. However, they require a lot of space and can be noisy, so apartment dwellers may not be suitable. They also need to be kept in large groups, so multiple animals will need to be adopted. Prairie dogs can also be difficult to potty train, and they have a tendency to dig and chew through furniture. Ultimately, the decision to bring a prairie dog into your home should be made carefully, as these animals require a significant amount of time, space, and commitment from their owners.
Because of their ecological significance, prairie dogs are frequently overlooked as an important part of the prairie. The animals are uncommonly important not only as food sources, but also as prairie grasslands. They graze and dig in bare patches of ground, where they attract insects that feed on a wide variety of birds. The prairie dog is also a major food source for predators such as coyotes, hawks, and even black-footed ferrets. They are a valuable part of the prairie ecosystem despite being difficult to keep for everyone, but they are also difficult to keep as pets. It’s important to remember that even small children may not always choose them as a pet because they can become difficult, nippy, and aggressive if not properly cared for or socialized. The presence of prairie dogs, as well as the habitats they call home, is critical to maintaining a prairie ecosystem that would otherwise fail.
Is It Legal To Own A Prairie Dog In Washington State

No, it is not legal to own a prairie dog as a pet in Washington State. Prairie dogs are classified as non-domestic animals, and it is illegal to possess these animals without proper permits. Additionally, prairie dogs are considered a species of special concern in Washington State, meaning that the state has taken steps to protect and conserve these animals. If you’re looking for a pet in Washington, consider adopting a domesticated species instead.
How Many Dogs Can You Legally Own In Washington State?
On the other hand, many cities and counties have far stricter animal control regulations, limiting the number of dogs allowed on private property. Exotic animal possession is prohibited in Oregon with the following exceptions: the owner is licensed through the USDA, which is the Department of Agriculture.
Is It Legal To Own A Prairie Dog In Oregon?
Prior to 2010, the owner of the exotic animal had a valid Oregon exotic animal permit. There will be no new permits issued. Prairie dogs have been kept as pets for decades in captivity.
Prairie Dog Pet For Sale

Are you looking for a unique and playful pet? Look no further than the prairie dog! Prairie dogs have a lot of personality and make great companions. They are very active, social animals and are a lot of fun to watch and interact with. They can be trained to do tricks and love to explore their environment. They come in many different colors and sizes and can be found for sale in pet stores or through breeders. They require a lot of attention and a safe, secure environment, so make sure you are prepared to provide them with the best care possible before you make your purchase.
While they are closely related to flying squirrels, they are not dogs. Aside from being destructive, prairie dogs require an indoor enclosure large enough to keep them safe. The care info blog is a great place to start if you think a prairie dog is the right pet for you. The prairie dog may appear harmless and cute, but it can easily consume a large amount of food.
Prairie Dogs: Small, But Mighty
Jessica Alexander, a program associate at WWF’s Northern Great Plains office, experienced the worst animal bite she’d ever experienced when she was bitten by a prairie dog as a child. It is important to note that prairie dogs do not live as long as humans; only about 40% reach maturity, and most adults live for three to five years. Their short lives allow them to feed on grasses and forbs, as well as clip down taller vegetation to clear sight lines and dig their burrows. Despite the fact that prairie dogs are small, they are not to be overlooked. Prairie dogs, a rare and highly misunderstood species of wildlife, are a North American phenomenon that has sparked considerable debate.
Are Prairie Dogs Dangerous
Prairie dogs are generally not considered to be dangerous animals. They are small, burrowing rodents that live in colonies, but they are not typically known to attack humans. Prairie dogs may look cute and cuddly, but they can bite if threatened and their sharp teeth can cause scratches and puncture wounds. It’s important to keep your distance from prairie dogs and never try to pick one up as they can become frightened and bite.
Prairie dogs have long been regarded as a keystone species for grasslands ecosystems in North America, and they have been regarded as an important migration route for European immigrants to the region. They are vilified and managed as destructive rodent pests in some locations. Prairie dog colonies have the potential to host up to 150 different species of wildlife. Creating conflict reduction plans and coexisting with other wildlife is a more humane and friendly way to solve conflicts. Clipping and digging by prairie dogs results in the growth of more shrubby plants and forbs. Furthermore, this increases the likelihood of more biodiverse and healthy habitats despite the fact that it may appear to some that are not in our interests. A Prairie dog is similar to Chicken McNuggets in that it is fast, skilled fighters with powerful teeth and claws.
Combatting The Prairie Dog Pest
They cause a variety of visual problems as a result of their burrowing, but their diet of flowers, crops, buds, and roots can have a severe impact on garden plants, fruits, and vegetables. They also prune their foliage to improve their line of sight, stunting their growth. Female prairie dogs are also known to be extremely aggressive, attacking other female burrows and killing their pups. Farmers and ranchers believe they are a threat to their livelihoods, which is why they resort to shooting, poisoning, contest kills, and even bulldozing when confronted with urban development plans. Although prairie dogs are wild animals that can bite, they may also be hosts to insects that can cause diseases to humans. As a result, it is clear why many farmers and ranchers do not like prairie dogs. Exotic animal laws vary greatly across the country, but they are intended to protect public health and safety.
How Much Are Prairie Dogs
Prairie dogs are a type of rodent native to the grasslands of North America. They are very sociable animals and form large colonies that can span several acres. The cost of a prairie dog varies depending on where you purchase it and its age. Generally, a pet prairie dog can cost anywhere between $50-$250. The cost of a cage, bedding, and food for a prairie dog can add up to around $100-$200. If you are looking for a prairie dog for breeding purposes, the cost can be significantly higher depending on the species and age of the animal.
FAQs
What is the least pet friendly state? ›
If you're a pet owner living in one of these states, it may be time to advocate for the changes necessary to make pets feel more at home. The states with the lowest percentage of pet-friendly rentals were Rhode Island (7.8%), Connecticut (9.1%), and Montana (9.3%).
What state has the best pet laws? ›For the second year in a row Maine maintains its first-place rank — followed by Illinois (2), Oregon (3), Colorado (4), and Rhode Island (5). New Mexico remained in 50th place, with Idaho (49), Mississippi (48), Alabama (47), and Utah (46) rounding out states with the weakest animal protection laws.
How do I get around my apartment pet limit? ›- Don't hide your dog. ...
- Create a pet resume. ...
- Offer to pay an extra pet deposit or pet fee. ...
- Show training certifications. ...
- Pet DNA Testing. ...
- Provide references. ...
- Look into service animal certifications or emotional support licenses. ...
- Buy pet liability insurance.
Wyoming had the highest pet ownership rate in the United States, with 72 percent of households owning a pet in 2022. West Virginia came in second place with a 71 percent pet ownership rate.
Which state loves dogs the most? ›The top three states that are most loving toward their pets, the survey determined, are California, New York and Washington.
What state has the safest animals? ›Pets are like a part of the family and sometimes they need a vacation too! It can also be very expensive to board them. Florida is actually a very pet-friendly state, with many vacation rentals, dog parks and pet-friendly beaches to back that up.
What is the most neglected pet in the US? ›Any mistreatment to an animal angers & upsets us deeply, but why is it that rabbits are the most neglected and misunderstood pet? Well here we have put together 10 very valid reasons (with the help from our facebook followers) as to why rabbits are the most neglected and most abandoned pet.
How do I keep my pet secret from my landlord? ›- Set a precedent about repairs and visits. ...
- Try to get a hypoallergenic dog. ...
- Try asking for permission. ...
- Keep all dog-related stuff in one spot. ...
- Keep the crate in the bathroom. ...
- Make sure your dog is well trained. ...
- Take the dog out early or late. ...
- Enlist an accomplice.
- Talk to Your Landlord. Sometimes, a landlord will allow a pet as long as you ask. ...
- Be Willing to Be Flexible. ...
- Collect Your Documents. ...
- Plan to Pay. ...
- Complete Property Management & Accounting Solutions.
What is the 10.40 066 waste removal? ›
Waste Removal Title 10, Section 10.40. 066 A person who owns or has custody of a dog (except a visually impaired person with a guide dog) is required to remove the dog's feces immediately from public property or private property not owned or possessed by the owner or custodian of the dog.
What is the 1 pet in America? ›Dogs are the most popular pet in the U.S. (65.1 million U.S. households own a dog), followed by cats (46.5 million households) and freshwater fish (11.1 million households).
What city in the US has the most pets? ›A study conducted by Protect My Paws, a pet insurance comparison platform, found that Houston is home to the world's highest ratio of dogs to humans at 52.1 dogs per 100 humans.
What state has the most homeless dogs? ›"Love Your Pet" Day
The American West has higher rates of shelter animals relative to population. New Mexico registered the highest rate in 2019, with more than 3,200 animals surrendered per 100,000 inhabitants.
Domestic dogs must see their human as the alpha. This means that under your pup's love and affection exists a tremendous amount of respect for a dog to see you as the pack leader. If your pup shows certain signs, they have granted you the role of alpha.
What state do dogs live the longest? ›States with the longest lifespan for dogs are South Dakota, Montana, Oregon, New Mexico and Colorado. As for the shortest: Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana Delaware and Massachusetts.
Which state euthanized the most animals? ›And, according to the cat and dog euthanasia rates by state, almost all are in the South. Texas tops the list with around 125,000 animals killed in shelters. California is second with 110,000, followed by Florida with 66,000, and North Carolina with 62,000 euthanized animals.
What is the most protected animal in the US? ›1. Florida Panther. The Florida panther has been listed as an endangered species since 1967 and now lives in just 5% of its former range.
What is the most popular pet in each state? ›- Alabama: Hedgehog. They love these buddies. ...
- Alaska: Ferrets. Ferrets are popular here. ...
- Arizona: Rabbits. These floppy-eared friends reign supreme. ...
- Arkansas: Hamsters. ...
- California: Rabbits. ...
- Colorado: Ferrets. ...
- Connecticut: Hedgehogs. ...
- Delaware: Hamsters.
- Idaho. Annual food cost: $103.20. ...
- Utah. Annual food cost: $185.76. ...
- South Dakota. Annual food cost: $276. ...
- Rhode Island. Annual food cost: $374.04. ...
- Oklahoma. Annual food cost :$379.32.
Is Walmart pet friendly Florida? ›
Walmart welcomes service animals as defined by the ADA in our stores, and we recognize the important role they play in many of our customers' lives. We do not allow pets in our stores. Are you satisfied with this answer?
How many dogs can you legally have in the state of Florida? ›There's no state-wide limit to how many dogs you can own in Florida. Where you live in Florida has the greatest impact on how many dogs you can own. If you live in a rural area, the amount is virtually limitless, but urban areas typically restrict the number of dogs to 2-3 per household.
What is the most abused dog in the US? ›The Pit Bull is the most common dog breed (along with pit bull breed mixes) found in shelters in the United States. They are also the most abused, neglected, and the most euthanized.
What are the top 3 most abused animals? ›Most common victims
The animals whose abuse is most often reported are dogs, cats, horses and livestock. Undercover investigations have revealed that animal abuse abounds in the factory farm industry.
Along with other primates, bush babies are not legal in the majority of states. They are obviously not legal in states like California that have strict bans on most exotic mammals, including ferrets. They are also illegal in most Northeastern states like New York, Connecticut, and Maine.
What states can you own a black panther? ›Additionally, nine states allow black panther ownership with a permit. These states include Idaho, Indiana, Maine, Montana, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, and Texas. In all other states, it is illegal to own a black panther.
What states can you own a fox? ›- Arkansas.
- Delaware.
- Florida.
- Rhode Island.
- Wisconsin.
- Wyoming.
- Illinois.
- Missouri.
It's possible, and it has been done, but there are significant risks to keeping secret pets as well. This guide includes some tips on keeping a pet at home discreetly but also offers some alternative strategies that may enable you to keep your pet legitimately, no matter what your landlord's pet policy says.
Can you have pet rats in an apartment? ›Hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, mice, and rats are well-suited to apartment living. Their enclosures can be relatively small and inexpensive, though they do need to be kept clean. Most will also need lots of toys and some supervised playtime outside of their cages.
What does pets negotiable mean? ›“Pets Negotiable” literally means exactly as it sounds – you get to negotiate what type of pets you can have in a rental property. There can be a number of reasons why landlords don't want certain types of pets in their rental property.
How do I convince my landlord? ›
Offer Something Extra
For example, you can offer to prepay rent, put down a larger security deposit, carry renters' insurance, have the rental professionally cleaned when you move out, or sign a long-term lease. If you have the financial means, you could even offer to pay a higher monthly rent.
562119 Other Waste Collection
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in collecting and/or hauling waste (except nonhazardous solid waste and hazardous waste) within a local area. Establishments engaged in brush or rubble removal services are included in this industry.
Construction and demolition (C&D) waste is generated from construction, renovation, repair, and demolition of houses, large building structures, roads, bridges, piers, and dams. C&D waste is made up of wood, steel, concrete, gypsum, masonry, plaster, metal, and asphalt.
What is the business code 562000? ›NAICS 562000 - Waste Management and Remediation Services.
What is the safest city for dogs? ›Known for its mild climate and famous hills, San Francisco tops our list of the best cities for dogs. All residents (100%) have access to a park within a 10-minute walk and there are a high number of dog parks per 100,000 residents (4.2). You'll have no problem getting your pup some fresh air and exercise.
What is America's most Favourite pet? ›1. Dogs. Dogs come in at number one, with48.3 million households owning dogs in the United States, making these four-legged friends one of the most popular pets around.
What is the most famous pet shop in the US? ›Petco was founded in 1965 and is one of the leading pet retailers in the US, virtually matching the annual revenue of PetSmart and only falling slightly behind store numbers. Petco has 1,559 stores, although this does include stores in Mexico and Puerto Rico as well as the US.
What is the least common dog? ›Rank | Rarest Dog Breed |
---|---|
1. | Telomian |
2. | Norwegian Lundehund |
3. | Lagotto Romagnolo |
4. | Otterhound |
What Is the Most Popular Pet in the World? It should come as no surprise that the most popular pet in the world is the dog. There is a reason why people say the dogs are a man's best friend, and there are tens of millions of them living in the United States alone.
Which state has the least pets? ›Rhode Island ranks as the worst state for pets, but the state still has above-average animal save rates and no-kill shelters. Rhode Island ranks second to last in pet ownership, with only 45.4% of households owning at least one pet, just behind California.
What state loves cats the most? ›
On any given day in the United States, there are an estimated 70 million homeless dogs and cats struggling to survive.
Where to and not to pet a dog? ›Individual dogs also have specific spots where they like to be petted; common areas are the base of the tail, under the chin or on the back of the neck where the collar hits. Most dogs dislike being touched on top of the head and on the muzzle, ears, legs, paws and tail.
What state do pets live the longest in? ›Cats live the longest in Montana, Colorado, Rhode Island, Illinois and Nebraska and they have the shortest lifespan in Delaware, Ohio, Louisiana, Kentucky and Mississippi. States with the longest lifespan for dogs are South Dakota, Montana, Oregon, New Mexico and Colorado.
What state has the least strict exotic animal laws? ›State Laws for Keeping Exotic Cats as Pets. 4 states have no laws on keeping dangerous wild animals as pets: Alabama, Nevada, North Carolina, and Wisconsin.
What city has the most abandoned dogs? ›Istanbul, the most populous city of the country, is home to one of the highest concentrations of stray animals, with an estimated 400,000 to 600,000 dogs and cats roaming the streets. In total, it is estimated that more than 10 millions of stray dogs live in Turkey and expected to rise up to 60 million in 10 years.
What is the most euthanized dog breed? ›The Pit Bull is the most common dog breed (along with pit bull breed mixes) found in shelters in the United States. They are also the most abused, neglected, and the most euthanized.
Why do dogs lick you? ›Licking is a natural and instinctive behaviour to dogs. For them it's a way of grooming, bonding, and expressing themselves. Your dog may lick you to say they love you, to get your attention, to help soothe themselves if they're stressed, to show empathy or because you taste good to them!
What is a dog's favorite spot to be petted? ›For example, most dogs prefer being touched with long gentle strokes along the chest, shoulder and base of the tail. While some dogs have other places they enjoy a gentle fuss, such as along their ears. And, there are areas which are more sensitive to touch and therefore, less welcome!
Where can I pet my dog to make it fall asleep? ›This point is located in the armpit of your pet, just where the front leg meets the inside of your pet's body. Massage this area using a back and forth or circular motion. Most pets fall into a half sleep when you massage Heart-1. Massaging this area will be deeply soothing to both of you.
What states euthanize the most animals? ›
The five states in which the most animals are being killed are California (100,239), Texas (96,707), North Carolina (47,652), Florida (45,503) and Louisiana (32,150). Collectively, these states account for 52% of the animals killed in U.S. shelters during 2019.
What is the average age of a dog's death? › Which animals are protected by law in the US? ›Species covered by the Animal Welfare Act are dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, nonhuman primates, marine mammals, captive wildlife, and domestic livestock species used in nonagricultural research and teaching.