Exotic Adoptions:
Some of this information is based on the Wisconsin State Laws. I am presently living in Wisconsin. You may need to check with your State to confirm the laws there.
The LIOC publishes a bi-monthly newsletter full of articles concerning various aspects of exotic cat ownership such as felid health care, nutrition, breeding, conservation efforts, and legislative trends. For more information about the LIOC write to: LIOC-Endangered Species Conservation Federation, P.O. Box 22085, Phoenix, AZ 85028.
Permits: First check the deed to your property, or with your landlord if you rent. Deeds sometimes include restrictions against keeping certain types of animals, and many landlords prohibit even normal domestic pets.
The next place to check is for any town/city ordinances which may exist. Local ordinances are fairly common in larger cities and in states which are highly urbanized. Check with your local government.
Next check with your state government. The responsible agency varies from state to state. Your state's departments of, Fish and Wildlife, Conservation, and Agriculture or the equivalent sgencies are a good place to start. Phone numbers should be listed in your phone book under State Government.
Wisconsin:
Secretary
Department of Natural Resources
Box 7921
Madison, WI 53707
608-266-2621
If you plan to breed exotic cats for commercial purposes, or to exhibit your cat, then you will need to obtain a special license from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Division Regulatory Enforcement and Animal Care (REAC).
The address is:
Regulatory Enforcement and Aniaml Care, APHIS, USDA, Room 565,
Federal Building, 6505 Belcrest Road, Hyattsville, MD 20782-2058
If your are planning on getting a cat from an endangered species you will also need a special license from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The address is:
Federal Wildlife Permit Office, 1000 N. Glebe Rd. Room 611,
Arlington, VA 22201. Tel. (703) 235-1903
NOTE: Licenses to keep an animal from an endangered species are normally only given to individuals with extensive prior experience with exotic cats, are planning to maintain a active captive breeding program, and have first class facilities. One word of caution... Get all the necessary permits BEFORE you buy your cat. Failure to do so will most likely result in confiscation of your pet. Such animals are frequently euthanized.
Always remember a Wild Animal is a Wild Animal. No matter how tame, they do things on instinct and should never be left in a situation where they could do harm to themselves or others. Please get as much information on each specific Animal before bringing that cute little baby home. Babies grow-up just ask Nala!
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If you have more recent/or accurate information please let me know. If I use information you provide, I will add your name as a contributor at the end of the applicable section. If you are not listed and would like to be or if you are listed and want to be removed just E-mail me at: donkeylady@oocities.com.
Thanks & Happy Brays.....
