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Is It Legal to Own Capybaras in Washington?

Being an exotic pet, capybaras are very popular among pet owners due to their super friendly behavior and high intelligence. In this post, we’ll understand if is it legal to own capybaras in Washington.

There are places where it is not legal to own a capybara and there are places where it is legal. Capybaras are wild animals and to conserve them some states make it hard to own a capybara as pet.

Washington is the northwestern-most state in the contiguous United States. It borders the Canadian province of British Columbia along the 49th parallel north, Idaho in the east, and the Pacific Ocean in the west. Lets see if it is legal to own capybaras in Washington or not.

Is It Legal to Own Capybaras in Washington?

Yes, it is legal to own capybaras in Washington State. However, you should obtain a permit for the same. Veterinarians can obtain the permit. Exhibitors must be federally licensed to exhibit these wild animals.

There are many species of these wild animals that are subjected to different types of medical tests. It is legal to own capybaras in Washington State, depending on the area.

However, you must get the agreement of other residents in the area.

Things to Consider before Buying Capybara in Washington

Now as you know it is legal to own capybaras in Washington, there are things to consider before buying a capybara in Washington state.

  • Capybaras are expensive to own. Not just cost but they there are other expenses on monthly basis.
  • They need a good living space indoor and outdoor.
  • As they are aquatic animals they also need aquatic space such as a pool as they spend a good amount of time in water.
  • They are social creatures which do best in pairs. Hence, you should purchase a couple of them, either two females or a male and a female.
  • They are herbivorous and have a good diet.

You should consider all aspects before you buy a capybara in Washington.

How to Get Capybara License in Washington State

It is legal to own capybaras in Washington but there are some places where you need to have license which then makes it legal to own capybaras in Washington State.

You need to obtain Certificate of Veterinary Inspection CVI

You can get capybara license from Washington State Department of Agriculture

You must also get the agreement of other residents in the area.

How Much Does a Capybara Cost in Washington State?

The cost of these creature ranges somewhere between $1000-$3000, and the females are usually more expensive than the males.

However, while buying one, you should make sure that there is an exotics veterinarian in your area who has experience in treating rodents like Capybara.

Within many states, the regulations often tend to vary. Counties, cities and neighborhoods may also have their laws about keeping the Capybaras as pets.

First the Animal welfare department in Washington will inspect your property and if they grant a permission, there will be also further inspections at regular intervals for checking on the welfare of the rodent and his/her habitat. Read more.

Capybara Behavior and Temperament.

The hand-reared capybaras are typically relatively tame, and if you are getting an adult one as a pet, you will have to be much more patient with it until it warms up to you.

These animals are not prone to biting humans. If they feel threatened in any way or if you try to provoke them, they will use their teeth to defend themselves, and they can even bite you. Thus, in general, these rodents tend to be nervous and shy.

The scent glands in these male rodents are located on the top of their snouts, and they are used to marking their territory. Female capybaras also have these glands. However, these glands are not visible. Both these capybaras use their anal glands for making.

To Wrap Up

These rodents are intelligent, social animals that can be taught to be house-trained. Though it is legal to own capybaras in Washington you must consider other things as well before you buy a capybara for their health and life.

Capybaras are not big shredders and they just shed a few hairs at a time. You should offer your Capybara some food and gently comb their hair.

They do require good care and if you are committed enough then let me tell you they are going to be your best pet till now.

Read More:

Is It Legal to Own Capybaras in Thailand

Is It Legal to Own Capybaras in Texas

Is It Legal to Own Capybaras in Australia

Is It Legal to Own Capybaras in Illinois

Is It Legal to Own Capybaras in Florida

Is It Legal to Own Capybaras in California

Is It Legal to Own Capybaras in India

Is It Legal to Own Capybaras in Idaho

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