Pet Fox Legal States

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Introduction

The legality of owning a fox as a pet in the United States may vary from state to state. For example, some states may allow it, while others may have restrictions or laws prohibiting it altogether. One of the most common reasons for this is due to the potential risk of harm to both the owner and their environment. Foxes are wild animals and can be unpredictable, making them dangerous when kept as pets. They are also known to carry a variety of diseases that can be spread to humans or other animals, which could create an epidemic if not kept in check. Additionally, they can disrupt ecosystems and cause damage to local wildlife populations if allowed to roam freely in areas where they are not native. As such, while owning a fox may seem appealing, it is important that the necessary regulations and safety measures are met before taking on the responsibility of caring for one.

StatePet Fox Legal StatusPet Ownership RatePet Raccoon Legal Status
AlabamaNo59.8%No
AlaskaNoNo
ArizonaNo58%No
CaliforniaNo57.2%No
ColoradoNo64.7%No
ConnecticutNo49.9%No
DelawareNo57.9%Yes
District of ColumbiaNoNo
GeorgiaNo51.1%No
HawaiiNoNo
IdahoNo69.9%No
IllinoisNo48.6%No
IowaNo59.4%No
KansasNo62.8%No
LouisianaNo54.4%No
MaineNo63.5%No
MarylandNo48.6%No
MassachusettsNo49.1%No
MinnesotaNo54%No
MississippiNo65.5%No
MontanaNo61.9%No
NevadaNo53.3%No
New HampshireNo51.8%No
New JerseyNo47.4%No
New MexicoNo60.1%No
North CarolinaNo58.6%No
OregonNo59.2%No
PennsylvaniaNo60.6%No
Rhode IslandNo45.4%Yes
South CarolinaNo62%Yes
TexasNo58.2%Yes
VermontNo70%No
VirginiaNo55.5%No
WashingtonNo62.7%No
West VirginiaNo70.7%Yes
WisconsinNo59%Yes
ArkansasYes69%Yes
FloridaYes56%Yes
IndianaYes69.2%Yes
KentuckyYes64.1%No
MichiganYes62.4%Yes
MissouriYes63.5%No
NebraskaYes70.3%Yes
New YorkYes49.7%No
North DakotaYes63.7%No
OhioYes62.4%No
OklahomaYes65%Yes
South DakotaYes46.4%No
TennesseeYes61.7%No
UtahYes58.5%No
WyomingYes71.8%Yes

Where Is It Legal to Own a Fox ?

It is illegal to own a fox in most areas in the United States. There are, however, fifteen states that legally allow you to own a fox in some capacity, as long as the owner has the proper licensing for the animal. Those states are Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. But while all of these states make it legal to own a fox, regulations on the conditions to be able to own one can vary from state to state. For example, in Arkansas it is legal to own a fox with a Fur Stocking Permit, while in Texas the owner must obtain a domestic animal permit and the animal must be vaccinated for rabies. Furthermore, some states may have other stipulations or restrictions associated with owning a fox, such as having an enclosure that ensures that the animal cannot escape or come into contact with wildlife, or being required to attend educational seminars on how to properly care for the animal. In Wisconsin, owners need to register their ownership of a fox with their local veterinarian within 30 days of purchase. Additionally, Pennsylvania requires proof of proper housing and good health from veterinarians before any fox can be purchased. These varying regulations emphasize just how important it is for potential fox owners to do research about the laws and regulations of their particular state before acquiring one of these animals.

Pet Fox Legal States

1. Arkansas
2. Delaware
3. Florida
4. Indiana
5. Michigan
6. Nebraska
7. Oklahoma
8. Pennsylvania
9. Rhode Island
10. South Carolina
11. Texas
12. Utah
13. West Virginia
14. Wisconsin
15. Wyoming

Where Is It Illegal to Own a Fox ?

Owning a fox as a pet is illegal in 35 states across the United States. These states include Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. In most of these states, it is illegal to keep foxes as pets due to concerns about how their presence may disrupt ecosystems or native wildlife populations. Foxes are also seen as potentially dangerous to humans and domestic animals as they are known to bite and can spread serious disease if not properly cared for. Keeping a fox as a pet can also be difficult due to the fact that they require specialized care and living conditions which many people may find difficult to provide. Those who live in any of these 35 states should familiarize themselves with local wildlife regulations before attempting to own a fox as a pet so that they do not risk breaking any laws or endangering themselves or their community.

States Where Pet Foxes Are Illegal

1. Alabama
2. Alaska
3. Arizona
4. California
5. Colorado
6. Connecticut
7. Delaware
8. Georgia
9. Hawaii
10. Idaho
11. Illinois
12. Iowa
13. Kansas
14. Louisiana
15. Maine
16. Maryland
17. Massachusetts
18. Minnesota
19. Mississippi
20. Montana
21. Nevada
22. New Hampshire
23. New Jersey
24. New Mexico
25. North Carolina
26. Oregon
27. Pennsylvania
28. Rhode Island
29. South Carolina
30. Texas
31. Vermont
32. Virginia
33. Washington
34. West Virginia
35. Wisconsin

Pet Fox Legal Status by State

Alabama

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#24

Pet Ownership Rate

Alaska

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Arizona

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#31

It is illegal to own a pet fox in Arizona. Foxes are classified as wild animals and require a special permit for ownership in the state. Unfortunately, obtaining such a permit is very difficult and usually requires specialized training or animal handling experience. Additionally, even if one was able to obtain a permit, the cost of vaccinations, housing, and food for the pet fox would be prohibitively expensive. It may also be dangerous to own a pet fox as they may not always behave in ways that humans expect of domestic animals and could potentially cause harm to humans or other animals in an environment where they are not native species.

Pet Ownership Rate

Arkansas

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#7

It is legal to own a pet fox in Arkansas. There are several types of foxes that can be kept as pets in the state, including the red fox, fennec fox, and arctic fox. They make loyal pets who enjoy snuggling with their owners and playing games. It is important to ensure they receive adequate socialization while young so that they can become well-behaved companions when they reach adulthood. Pet foxes will need special diets tailored to their specific needs and plenty of exercises to stay healthy and happy. Additionally, these animals require large cages or enclosures when kept in captivity, which must be constructed with care in order to meet the animal's physical and psychological needs.

Pet Ownership Rate

California

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#33

It is illegal to own a pet fox in California, and it is strictly prohibited due to the potential harm it could cause to other animals and property. Foxes are wild animals, so even if they have been domesticated, they can still exhibit aggressive behavior and may even attack small pets or livestock. Moreover, having a fox as a pet in California can put people at risk for rabies, as foxes are carriers of this disease. Foxes also need specific habitats to thrive such as places with plenty of space, lots of shade, water sources, and places to hide such as dens. Providing these habitats in an urban environment is difficult and costly. Thus, it is important to remember that while foxes may appear docile in captivity, they are still wild animals that should not be kept as pets in California.

Pet Ownership Rate

Colorado

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#10

Pet Ownership Rate

Connecticut

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#41

Pet Ownership Rate

Delaware

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#32

Pet Ownership Rate

District of Columbia

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Florida

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#34

It is legal to own a pet fox in Florida as long as one has a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Pet foxes in Florida typically require a large outdoor space with plenty of exercise, stimulation, and socialization opportunities. To keep a pet fox in Florida, owners must also adhere to regulations regarding vaccinations and rabies control.

Pet Ownership Rate

Georgia

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#40

It is illegal to own a pet fox in Georgia due to the potential danger that a wild fox poses to both humans and other animals. It is important for anyone considering owning a pet fox in Georgia to be aware of the risks associated with this type of animal, as they can carry diseases such as rabies and distemper that can be deadly to humans if left untreated. Additionally, wild foxes can also cause property damage as they dig holes and destroy gardens in search of food. Therefore, it is best to leave foxes in their natural habitat rather than attempting to own one as a pet in Georgia.

Pet Ownership Rate

Hawaii

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No

Idaho

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#5

Pet Ownership Rate

Illinois

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#44

Pet Ownership Rate

Indiana

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#6

It is legal to own a pet fox in Indiana. Pet owners in the state must obtain a permit from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources before getting a fox. Foxes must also remain in enclosures that are designed to protect them and their owners from potential danger. Once these requirements are met, pet foxes in Indiana can enjoy activities such as going for walks on leashes, playing fetch, eating treats, and socializing with other humans or animals—all under the watchful eye of their owners. These effortless-looking animals require a lot of dedication and commitment; they have specific dietary and exercise needs that should be followed. Additionally, learning about proper fox care and gaining experience with owning one is essential for any prospective pet owner in this state.

Pet Ownership Rate

Iowa

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No

Ranked in the US

#25

Pet Ownership Rate

Kansas

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#15

Pet Ownership Rate

Kentucky

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#11

Pet Ownership Rate

Louisiana

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#36

Pet Ownership Rate

Maine

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#13

Pet Ownership Rate

Maryland

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#45

It is illegal to own a pet fox in Maryland. The animal is usually not suitable for domestication due to its natural behavior and instinct. Pet foxes require a lot of attention and care from their owners and would be difficult to maintain in an urban setting. Moreover, foxes can carry diseases that may spread to humans or other pets, making them unsafe for domestication. As such, it is best for Maryland residents to enjoy watching wild foxes from afar instead of attempting to own one as a pet.

Pet Ownership Rate

Massachusetts

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#43

It is illegal to own a pet fox in Massachusetts due to the state's strict animal control laws. Foxes are classified as wild animals and can be dangerous as they may carry diseases that could potentially spread to domesticated animals like cats and dogs. Pet foxes require specialized diets that are not readily available in most stores, making it difficult for owners to provide proper nutrition for the animal. Foxes also have sharp claws and teeth which can cause serious harm if the animal is provoked or mishandled.

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Michigan

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#17

It is legal to own a pet fox in Michigan. The most common type of fox allowed is the red or arctic fox, and they must be acquired from a licensed breeder in the state. In order to keep a pet fox, owners must also obtain a wild animal-keeping license and provide proper care for the animal. Pet foxes must be vaccinated against rabies and kept up-to-date on vaccinations. Owners should also provide their pet foxes with an appropriate diet that consists mainly of proteins and healthy fats such as small rodents, eggs, fruits, vegetables, berries, and insects. Additionally, it is important to note that if the pet fox escapes from its enclosure it must be reported to local authorities immediately in order to prevent unwanted breeding with local wildlife populations.

Pet Ownership Rate

Minnesota

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No

Ranked in the US

#37

Pet Ownership Rate

Mississippi

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#8

Pet Ownership Rate

Missouri

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#14

Pet Ownership Rate

Montana

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#20

Pet Ownership Rate

Nebraska

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#3

Pet Ownership Rate

Nevada

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#38

Pet Ownership Rate

New Hampshire

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#39

Pet Ownership Rate

New Jersey

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#46

Pet Ownership Rate

New Mexico

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#23

Pet Ownership Rate

New York

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#42

Pet Ownership Rate

North Carolina

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#28

It is illegal to own a pet fox in North Carolina. Most foxes found in North Carolina are wild animals that can carry diseases and parasites into the home, creating a risk for other pets or humans living there. Even if measures are taken to ensure the fox's safety and health, it will still require access to a large outdoor space with lots of privacy and room to roam, which may prove difficult for many people living in urban areas. Furthermore, investing time and resources in taming a wild animal may not result in an enjoyable pet experience due to the fox’s unpredictable nature.

Pet Ownership Rate

North Dakota

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#12

Pet Ownership Rate

Ohio

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#18

It is legal to own a pet fox in Ohio. Owners must adhere to strict regulations in order to legally own a pet fox, including obtaining a permit from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. In addition to providing a safe and secure environment for the animal, owners must also provide adequate food, water, and veterinary care for their pet foxes. It is also important to keep in mind that pet foxes require plenty of exercise, enrichment activities, and socialization with humans in order to remain healthy and happy.

Pet Ownership Rate

Oklahoma

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#9

It is legal to own a pet fox in Oklahoma as the individual obtains proper licensing paperwork from the Department of Agriculture. There are many resources available in the state designed to help with the maintenance and well-being of pet foxes, including veterinarian clinics that specialize in exotic animal care. It is important to remember that while owning a pet fox is legal in Oklahoma, they still require plenty of space and enrichment activities due to their wild nature.

Pet Ownership Rate

Oregon

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#26

Pet Ownership Rate

Pennsylvania

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#22

Pet Ownership Rate

Rhode Island

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#48

Pet Ownership Rate

South Carolina

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#19

Pet Ownership Rate

South Dakota

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#47

Pet Ownership Rate

Tennessee

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#21

It is legal to own a pet fox in Tennessee. Fox owners in the state must abide by certain regulations and obtain a permit in order to keep their pets. Red foxes, arctic foxes, and gray foxes are all common breeds that can be kept legally as pets in Tennessee. In addition to complying with the necessary regulations, pet fox owners should also be aware of safety concerns related to wild animals. It is important for owners to ensure their pet is vaccinated against rabies, as well as other diseases spread by animals. It is also important for owners to exercise caution when interacting with their pet foxes since these animals are still largely wild creatures and can have unpredictable behaviors.

Pet Ownership Rate

Texas

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#30

It is illegal to own a pet fox in Texas. Given their distinctive characteristics, foxes are often considered exotic animals in the state. They have a high risk of carrying rabies, which is why it is illegal to keep them as companions. Additionally, wild foxes can easily become accustomed to humans if there is continuous contact with them, making it difficult for the animal to return to its natural environment if released back into the wild. As such, many consider the ban on pet foxes in Texas beneficial to the safety of both people and animals alike.

Pet Ownership Rate

Utah

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#29

Pet Ownership Rate

Vermont

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#4

Pet Ownership Rate

Virginia

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#35

It is illegal to own a pet fox in Virginia. The laws regarding the ownership of pet foxes are strictly enforced, and potential owners can face legal consequences if they attempt to own one. It is also illegal to import a pet fox into Virginia, and individuals who already have pet foxes must return their new housemates back to where they originated from. Even though there are many ways to properly care for a pet fox in other states, it is unfortunately not an option for Virginians due to the stringent laws and regulations that are in place.

Pet Ownership Rate

Washington

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#16

It is illegal to own a pet fox in Washington. This means that any resident of Washington cannot keep a fox as a pet, regardless of the species. In fact, most wild animals – including foxes – are not allowed to be kept as pets according to state laws. Although some more exotic pets may be granted permission from local authorities in certain cases, pet foxes are still ultimately not allowed in the state of Washington due to their potential danger to both humans and other animals. Furthermore, owning a pet fox can result in hefty fines and even criminal charges depending on the severity of the violation.

Pet Ownership Rate

West Virginia

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#2

Pet Ownership Rate

Wisconsin

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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No

Ranked in the US

#27

Pet Ownership Rate

Wyoming

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Pet Fox Legal Status

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Yes

Ranked in the US

#1

It is legal to own a pet fox in Wyoming as long as the owner obtains a permit from the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission. These permits require background checks for the potential owner and must be renewed annually. Pet foxes require ample space for exercise and stimulation, so it is important to provide them with plenty of toys and activities. They also need an enclosure that is secure enough to keep them from escaping or getting into trouble with nearby wildlife.

Pet Ownership Rate

FAQs

Is it illegal to own a fox ?

There are 35 states where it is illegal to own a fox in the United States. These states are Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

Why is it illegal to own a fox in some states ?

Foxes are typically difficult to domesticate and are known to be carriers of diseases such as rabies, distemper, and mange, which is why some states make it illegal to own a fox as a pet in order to protect public health and safety.

What states allow foxes as pets ?

In the United States, it is legal to have a pet fox in Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

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