A recent post from a Facebook group dedicated to finding lost pets has caught the attention of the Hudson Valley. It wasn't a dog or a cat that escaped from its owner's house, but a fox.
“Eevee slipped out of the doggy door last night without an air tag,” the Hudson Valley lost pet's post began. “While we hope she is still somewhere on our property, we are very concerned that we may lose our special girl.” Many commenters posted positive messages. While others were wondering the same thing: Is it legal to keep a fox as a pet in New York?
How does New York state law govern the care of exotic animals like fennec foxes?
Is it legal to keep exotic animals as pets in New York State?
New York State law clearly prohibits private ownership of wild animals (“native, non-domesticated animals indigenous to the state”) and exotic animals (“wild animals originating from another continent”). However, there is only one type. of foxes that may slip between these guidelines.
Fennec foxes were once legal to keep as pets in New York, but a new law could change that.
Phoenix fox as a pet in New York State
Both gray and red foxes are native to New York State, but it is illegal to keep them as pets. The fennec fox, which is native to North Africa, is legal in some parts of New York state. Some possible conditions:
New York City has stricter pet laws than other parts of the state.
New York City's strict pet laws
Outside of New York City, there are particularly strict laws regarding animals that can be kept as pets (ducks, llamas, iguanas, and goats are not allowed). The world's smallest fox, the fennec fox, is legal to keep as a pet… for now.
New York State's new exotic pet law
The definition of animals that are legally allowed to be kept as pets was amended in New York last year for exotic pet dealers who sell animals such as sloths and kangaroos. Fortunately for current owners of animals like fennec foxes, the law provides that “any person currently in possession of a wild animal at the commencement of the Establishment Clause.” [can] keep an animal for life.'' See other animals that may no longer be legal to purchase after the amendments below.
10 Exotic Animals You Can Legally Keep as Pets in New York
Looking for an exotic pet in New York State? Here are eight animals you can legally own.
Gallery credits: Credit – Polly McAdams
New York State December Forest Ranger Rescue in Fall 2023
Below are some of the recent acts of heroism by forest rangers and an excellent description of the training and programs provided to ensure safety and conservation.
Gallery credit: Conor Walsh
