There are many exotic pets you can own in Massachusetts but can you own a capybara in Massachusetts or it is legal to own a capybara in Massachusetts.
Capybaras are loved by most of the people around the world. They are one of the best exotic pet you can keep as a pet.
Why I’m saying this? Because they are very friendly with humans and other animals as well. Apert from being friendly they are very calm and always chilling.
Capybaras are highly intelligent as well. They understand things like dogs and respond as well.
But capybaras are not legal to own everywhere as they are exotic animals and are found in South America near water bodies.
Countries Where Capybaras are Legal to Own
In this blog post we’ll try to understand can you own a capybara in Massachusetts or not.
Contents
Can You Own a Capybara in Massachusetts
Capybaras are not legal to own in Massachusetts and hence you cannot own a capybara in Massachusetts.
Capybaras are wild animals and Massachusetts has strict laws related to possession of non-domesticated animals.
The laws are made to protect the citizens and the animals from any harm.
I know you are a capybara lover but unfortunately it is not possible to own a capybara in Massachusetts.
Can You Own a Capybara in Massachusetts through a Permit
In Massachusetts keeping wild animals as pets is not possible as they have strict laws. Though if you have a reason like if you want to keep a capybara for any scientific purpose, educational, commercial or any other specific reason then you can apply for the permit or a license of keeping a capybara.
But you need to provide proper paper work and details of the reason of keeping them.
You need to show that you are active in the work for which you want to keep a capybara to apply for a permit.
You cannot get permit just for keeping them as a pet.
Massachusetts, like many other states in the United States, has specific laws and regulations regarding the ownership of exotic animals. The Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 131, Section 23, states that it is illegal to possess, sell, or import a wild animal without the proper permits and licenses.
How To Get an Exotic Pet Licence in Massachusetts
You can contact the Wildlife Department of you state or a nearest veterinarian as they may be able to help you in this.
You can contact :
Bob Arini, Fish & Wildlife Permit Specialist, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife251 Causeway St., #400Boston, MA 02114
Phone : +16176261590
Mail : [email protected]
Wild Animals You Do Not Need Any Permit
There are some wild animals in Massachusetts you do not need any permit to keep them as pets but there are certain criteria and factors you need to consider while keeping them as pets as per the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. These are:
- The proper care of the animals should be comparatively equal or less than keeping any common domestic animal.
- Trade of the animal should not effect their population in their natural habitat.
- The animal should not posses any harm such as injury or any disease if kept in captivity or if escaped.
- Accidental release will not adversely affect the ecology of Massachusetts.
List of Legal Pets You Can Own and Illegal Pets Cannot Own in Massachusetts
| Legal Pets in Massachusetts | Subcategories | Illegal Pets in Massachusetts | Subcategories |
| Dogs | Various breeds and sizes | Bears | All bear species |
| Cats | Domestic cats | Primates | Monkeys, apes, lemurs, etc. |
| Fish | Non-native fish species | Alligator | |
| Birds (non-native species) | Parakeets, canaries, finches, etc. | Crocodile | |
| Reptiles (non-venomous) | Turtles, snakes, lizards, etc. | Venomous Snakes | Cobras, rattlesnakes, vipers, etc. |
| Small mammals | Hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, etc. | Cheetahs | |
| Domesticated Ferrets | Domesticated ferrets | Elephant | |
| Domesticated Hedgehogs | Domesticated hedgehogs | Giraffes | |
| Domesticated Sugar Gliders | Domesticated sugar gliders | Hippos | |
| Domesticated Chinchillas | Domesticated chinchillas | Kangaroos | |
| Leopards | |||
| Lions | |||
| Tigers | |||
| Wolves |
This list is the overview of the animals you can own and cannot own in Massachusetts. There are subcategories as well. I request you to visit the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife to see the complete list.
To Wrap Up
If you live in Massachusetts and have your heart set on getting a capybara as pet, it’s important to understand that it is not legal to own a capybara in Massachusetts but you can consider options that are legal and suitable for your lifestyle.
Luckily, there are plenty of domesticated animals that make wonderful pets and are allowed in Massachusetts. You can choose from popular options like dogs, cats, rabbits, and smaller animals like hamsters or guinea pigs.
Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, and there are so many different breeds and sizes to choose from.
Cats, on the other hand, are independent yet affectionate creatures.
If you’re looking for something a bit different, rabbits are adorable and social animals that can make delightful pets.
For those who prefer smaller pets, hamsters and guinea pigs are popular choices.
I know you want to own a capybara in Massachusetts but it is not legal you can consider these legal alternatives, you can find a unique and interesting pet that will bring happiness to your life while ensuring that you abide by the regulations in Massachusetts.
Remember to provide proper care, attention, and a loving environment for your chosen pet.
