Looking for an exotic pet? How about an unusual pet that is more or less known for its exotic smell? By exotic smell of course I mean stinky and the type of pet in mention is: a skunk! Some people, (awww come on most people with a heart), find skunks to be quite cute and they are indeed beloved pets to many. Here is some information you may be interested in if you’re looking for a new pet experience.
First off having a skunk as a pet is illegal in most states. The only people lucky enough to be allowed such an odd pet are:
Alabama – if the skunk is bred within the state.
Florida – with a permit
Georgia – unless it is a black and white skunk
Indiana – legal with a permit, yet there are other state restrictions to check into
Iowa – legal
Michigan – must be a Michigan bred skunk, must have a permit, and must build an outside cage
Minnesota – with a permit
New Hampshire – if it is a hooded or spotted skunk not striped
New Jersey – if it was bred in the state and you get a permit
New York – legal via permit in select areas
Ohio – with a permit
Oregon – legal, but must be bought outside of the state, have a health certificate and an import permit
Pennsylvania – with a permit
South Dakota – 1 skunk per person
West Virginia – legal with a permit
Wisconsin – legal with a special license
Wyoming – legal
All other states have laws against having a skunk for a pet and it is probably best to double check for new laws when considering this pet.
Now then, how do you get a pet skunk? If you fall into one of the legal states then chances are you can look up a special breeder on the internet or in the phone book. This would be your best bet as opposed to walking around in the woods and trying to catch a wild one by the tail, seeing as the breeders descent the skunks at a young age. Skunks are only born during one period of the year and therefore when you do find a breeder you may end up on a waiting list. Also in preparation you may want to make sure your veterinarian will allow skunk clients.
Even though they may need to be spayed or neutered as such, Skunks are not something you can treat just like a dog or cat. Skunks need a lot more attention in order to keep them adjusted, so a lot of cuddling and playing is recommended. Also when it comes feeding time you cannot just shove a bowl of Meow mix or Kibbles and bits in front of these creatures. In the wild skunks generally eat a lot of insects, however their diet also included some fruits and plants, and then when available small mice or rodents. They also enjoy eggs. For meat an adult skunk can be fed chicken or tuna and certain dog foods that are lower in protein can be tolerated. It is best to keep them away from red meat and pork. Make sure that any chicken you feed to the skunk is broiled or baked. Vegetables need to cleaned of salt as best as possible and fruit should b used sparingly. In dairy products among skunk favorites is cottage cheese, however, like with any animal this I specific to the individual and many animals cannot tolerate dairy. The Sand Diego Zoo does recommend one boiled egg per week for pet skunks. Your best bet here is to buy an actual guide for feeding skunks, several can be found online, and then testing with your pet.
Skunks are very curious animals so your home has to be ready for one very nosy explorer. The skunk will dig through and thoroughly investigate everything! They are prone to stealing things, which they love to collect in making their beds softer and potty training may prove to be a difficult task. Skunks are very loving and playful, but also headstrong and stubborn with very sharp teeth. Skunks also make a squealing noise, though they tend to remain quiet. Be warned if you have children who are loud and squealing and very hands on that the skunk may imitate the sounds, hiss, and bite. It is very important to be very gentle and loving with the skunk from an early age so that it is trained to be more docile.
Does this sound like the pet for you? A new challenge for sure, however one that may be rewarding with companionship. There are loads more facts and information to be found out about skunks as pets on the internet and if this article has peaked your interest be sure to check into the proposition fully and factually before just buying a skunk. A good breeder isn’t going to sell a skunk to someone who is unprepared.
