Pet skunk 1220353 move=:edit= 225287490 2008-07-12T22:11:03Z 82.3.202.11 +img [[Image:Striped skunk Freddy.jpg|thumb|A domesticated skunk.]] A '''pet skunk''' is a [[skunk]] kept by humans for companionship and enjoyment. Although capable of living indoors with humans similarly to [[dog]]s or [[cat]]s, pet skunks are relatively rare, partly due to restrictive laws and the complexity of their care. Pet skunks are mainly kept in the [[United States]], [[Canada]], [[Germany]], the [[Netherlands]], and [[Italy]]. In the United States, pet skunks can be purchased from licensed [[animal shelter]]s, non-profit skunk educational organizations such as the [[American Domestic Skunk Association]], Inc., or [[breeder]]s with a permit from the [[United States Department of Agriculture|U.S. Department of Agriculture]]'s [[Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service]]. Baby skunk availability peaks during springtime, immediately following the skunk [[mating season]]. Some large [[fur farming|fur farms]] sell surplus skunks to pet stores. Skunks are probably best known for their ability to spray foul-smelling fluid as a defense against predators. Most wild skunks spray only when injured or attacked, as a defense mechanism. The [[mercaptan]]-emitting scent [[gland]]s (commonly referred to as "the stinker") are usually removed in pet skunks at about four weeks of age.<ref>[http://www.accs.net/users/whyden/skunkfaq.htm]{{Dead link|date=March 2008}}</ref> ==History== Skunks are native to [[the Americas]] and are noted in historical accounts of [[Christopher Columbus]]. Skunks were reportedly kept as pets by some [[Native Americans in the United States|Native American]] nations. Farmers valued domesticated skunks for their ability to kill [[rodents]] and other [[pest control|pests]]. Skunk pelts were also used for coats and frequently passed off as [[marten]] [[fur]]. Before the 1950s, they were sold under ambiguous names such as "American [[sable]]" and "Alaskan sable".<ref>[http://www.vintagefashionguild.org/furs/skunk.html Vintage Fashion Guild - Fur Resource<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The courts finally ruled that the customer must be informed of any purchase that contained skunk parts. The skunk fur market subsequently collapsed. Since then, skunks have been mainly bred as pets. In the 20th century, most [[U.S. state]]s outlawed the keeping of [[wild animal]]s as part of their efforts to stem the spread of [[rabies]]. Only about one-third of states continued to allow domestic skunks. In the 1990s, skunk enthusiasts began establishing mailing lists and organized for skunk law reform. In the 2000s, similar initiatives took place in [[Canada]]. ==Temperament== Skunks are sensitive, [[Intelligence|intelligent]] animals,<ref>[http://www.accs.net/users/whyden/skunkpet.htm]{{Dead link|date=March 2008}}</ref> and like all intelligent animals, temperament varies for each animal. Skunks tend to be highly [[Curiosity|curious]]. Skunks will open cupboards that are left unlocked. Skunks also tend to be very friendly, loving, entertaining and playful. However, they can also be stubborn and headstrong. Some owners have noticed skunks smelling something that was spilled on the carpet long ago, and attempting to dig to find out what is buried there. Like [[ferret]]s, their curiosity can lead them into danger, especially if they crawl inside [[recliner|reclining chairs]] or other machinery.<ref>[http://www.skunksaspets.com/skunkstuff.htm#WARNINGS SkunkStuff<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Due to the complexity of their care, and the negative image of skunks as foul-smelling rodents, many people will not keep a skunk as a pet. ==Skunk care== {{howto}} === Handling skunks === [[Image:Skunk being cuddled.jpg|thumb|right]] A new skunk will be rather disoriented after arriving in a new home. It should be held and cuddled as much as possible, so that it will grow into a friendly, affectionate pet. Skunks that are not touched much as babies tend to become shy and retreat from humans.<ref>[http://www.skunksaspets.com/skunkstuff.htm#new_arr SkunkStuff<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> In particular, it is important to touch, rub, and play with their feet and toes to get them used to humans touching their feet. This will make it easier to trim their claws later.<ref>[http://www.skunksaspets.com/skunkstuff.htm#FEET_MOUTHS SkunkStuff<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> This is also the time to start hand-feeding the skunk so that he will learn to avoid biting fingers at treat time. Skunk expert Jane Bone writes: {{quote|The more you gently handle and fondle your baby skunk, the more docile it will be when it grows up. The more you hold and talk to a baby skunk, the more love will come your way from this skunk as it grows. More homes have been cleaned, meals prepared or football games watched with a baby skunk snuggled inside a T-shirt tucked into a waistband than you could ever imagine. Being this close to you, the baby skunk will learn that it is great to be part of your family as you protect it and calm it down, feeling warm and wonderful all over that you are its new Mom or Dad!<ref>[http://www.skunksaspets.com/skunkstuff.htm SkunkStuff<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>}} To play with a baby pet skunk, it is possible to get on one's hands and knees, and playfully tap the floor with the fingers of one hand, while moving the hand toward the skunk. They quickly get the idea, and will respond with a sort of cat-like rearing up and coming down on their front feet. However, as they make their move, they will be looking you straight in the eyes, while aiming, with tail raised high, their potent "weapon" directly at your eyes simultaneously. (They do the same in the wild when threatened.) It is better to avoid playing rough with baby skunks, or they may become aggressive as they get older. Bare hands can be used for loving and cuddling the skunk, but a stuffed toy or hand puppet should be used when playing with them due to their sharp teeth and extremely long fangs.<ref>[http://www.skunksaspets.com/skunkstuff.htm#HANDLING_BABY SkunkStuff<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Spanking or hitting a skunk is not recommended, since it will cause him to become vengeful. Discipline should be in the tone and volume of voice. A squirt from a spray bottle may be helpful.<ref>[http://www.skunksaspets.com/skunkstuff.htm#SPANKING SkunkStuff<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> ===Housebreaking=== Most skunks can be [[Housebreaking|housebroken]] by corner training. After they choose a corner, a litter pan with unscented litter can be placed there. If the skunk misses the litter pan, after cleanup, the area should be saturated with plain white [[vinegar]] to remove the scent, so that they will not return to that spot. After the skunk's bathroom has been established, it can be moved about four inches a day to a different location. The skunk may or may not follow. If he doesn't, it may be necessary to give in, let the skunk have that corner, and block the view with a chair or bookcase placed in the corner or some other decorative idea.<ref>[http://www.skunksaspets.com/skunkstuff.htm#POTTY_TRAINING SkunkStuff<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> For covered cat [[litter box]]es, it will probably be necessary to cut a larger opening for the skunk.<ref>[http://www.skunkhaven.net/PetSkunks.htm Skunk Haven&#8482: Pet Skunks<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> With any litter pan, bear in mind that regular cleaning is necessary since skunks will avoid a dirty bathroom. Some owners have reported that their skunk could not be corner-trained or taught to use a litter box, according to Skunk Haven's Deborah Cipriani.<ref>[http://www.skunkhaven.net Welcome to Skunk Haven&#8482<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Letting skunks outside by themselves is risky since, like ferrets, they lack a homing instinct and can easily get lost.<ref>[http://www.centralpets.com/pages/critterpages/mammals/ferrets/FER4720.shtml Mammals » Ferrets » Skunk - Striped Main Page<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Descented skunks lack their most powerful defense against predators such as [[coyote]]s and [[fox]]es. Their [[nearsightedness]] also makes them susceptible to becoming [[roadkill]]. ===Diet=== Skunks need a wider variety of food than most pets. They tend to have a voracious [[appetite]], making [[obesity]] a common problem.<ref>[http://members.aol.com/oddpet/chapterskunk.html Domestic Skunks- The Odd Pet Directory<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> It is important not to overfeed them. Some types of food, such as [[Chocolate#Lethal toxicity for domesticated animals|chocolate]], are known to be harmful to almost all animals. The topic of what to feed skunks is very controversial, according to Owners of Pet Skunks.<ref>[http://www.skunk-info.org/petcare/petcare.htm Owners Of Pet Skunks: Pet Care Instructions<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Mary Kaye Ashley's book, ''A Comprehensive Guide to Raising a Pet Skunk,'' recommends a ratio of 50 percent vegetables, 40 percent Skunkie Delight, and 10 percent other whole foods. Skunkie Delight is a blend of a cooked grain (millet, oats, barley, or brown rice), raw ground turkey, [[egg (food)|eggs]], [[vegetable oil]], and a variety of vitamin and mineral powders.<ref>[http://hometown.aol.com/goldeniris/page5delight.html Skunkie Delight<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Since it is not available commercially, the owner has to mix it. Jane Bone's Skunk Stuff describes a diet of vegetables, fruits, [[dairy]], [[yogurt]], vitamins and minerals, fiber, [[carbohydrate]]s, and eggs.<ref>[http://www.skunksaspets.com/skunkstuff.htm#DAILY_DIET SkunkStuff<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Skunk Haven disagrees with this diet, and recommends their own sample diet.<ref>[http://www.skunkhaven.net/DietNutrition.htm Skunk Haven&#8482: Nutrition and Diet<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Skunk expert Mary Kaye Ashley, as well as the American Domestic Skunk Association, Inc. also disagree with this diet. Eugie and Matthew Foster have tried a lacto-ovum vegetarian diet with good results, with [[rice and beans]] with yogurt, cottage cheese, the occasional boiled egg, and unsalted peanuts for protein needs, and including [[nutritional yeast]], cold-pressed safflower oil, and various vitamin supplements (including taurine and D-3) in addition to vegetables and fruit.<ref>[http://home.comcast.net/~mustalayday/skunk_faq.htm Domesticated Skunks 101 (Exotic Pet Care)<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Lynnda Butler, president of Florida Skunks as Pets, believes a small amount of sugar can be beneficial for skunks and recommends an eighth of a graham cracker or vanilla wafer a day. Others (e.g. Skunk Haven) eschew feeding skunks processed sugar altogether, citing the risk of [[diabetes]]. Skunk expert Mary Kaye Ashley, as well as the American Domestic Skunk Association, also strongly disagree with the feeding of any form of processed sugar products. Per Ms. Ashley, natural sugars (such as a small amount of fruit) can be included in the diet several times a week provided that the skunk does not suffer from [[hypoglycemia]] or diabetes. The choice of diet is ultimately up to the skunk owner. Though with the complexity of skunkie delight creating it your own home can be more harmful to the skunk. If you do not get the nutrients just right the skunk could suffer serious health issues. Most veterinarians will recommend a high quality ferret diet and a mixture of vegetables each day. With treats of dairy, nuts, eggs and other high calorie foods by giving them as treats weight is easier to control. Skunks generally do not drink a great deal of water, but clean water should always be available. ===Veterinary care=== Baby skunks from the pet store generally have not had any medical treatment other than scent gland removal, and will require [[spaying or neutering]], shots, and worming. They will need to be tested for [[coccidia]] and other [[protozoa]] as well as parasites. Skunks also need to have regular yearly checkups. Dr. Frank Krupka and Skunk Haven have developed a [[blood panel]] to show if supplements or changes in diet are needed, and recommend a blood panel as part of a yearly check up.<ref>[http://www.skunkhaven.net/VetCare.htm Skunk Haven&#8482: Veterinary Care (pg. 1)<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Veterinary understanding of skunks is rather limited, since scientists have not conducted as much research on skunks as they have on more common pets. Skunks do not always respond to medicines the same way as cats or dogs. As a result, there is considerable disagreement about how best to treat them. Some veterinarians say they are in the [[hamster]] family and treat them as such. However, Hamsters are from the [[Rodent]] family while Skunks are in their own family the [[Mephitidae]] which is unrelated. There are several different pet skunk organizations giving out conflicting advice on skunk care. Particularly in the medical realm, it is wise to consult multiple sources rather than rely on any one source of information from the [[Internet]]. '''Spaying/neutering:''' Males should be [[castration|neutered]] between 3 and 4 months of age. Females should be [[spayed]] between 4 and 6 months of age. '''Vaccinations:''' Most skunk organizations recommend Galaxy DA2PPvL+Cv and Eclipse 4 given as a baby and then a yearly booster.<ref>[http://www.skunksaspets.com/skunkstuff.htm SkunkStuff<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Some veterinarians do not recommend giving skunks even these common shots, since they were developed for dogs and cats. '''Declawing:''' Skunks should not be declawed, since they use their claws to handle food. Instead, their claws should be trimmed occasionally. Skunks have "digging" claws like dogs, as opposed to "ripping" claws like cats. '''Roundworms:''' Many skunks have died from [[roundworm]]s. ''[[Baylisascaris]] columnaris'' is the species that infests skunks most commonly. Baylisascaris eggs can remain viable in the environment for many years, despite hot or freezing weather or certain harsh chemicals. Skunks can be infested with roundworms for several weeks before eggs begin to be shed in [[feces]]. It is common for new skunks to have roundworms, which may be too early in development to be detected by fecal tests. Skunk experts agree that all new skunks need to be treated for roundworms, and that more than one treatment is needed. Diagnostic Parasitologist Matt Bolek recommends that "A deworming program should probably start at 7-8 weeks of age and deworm biweekly for 3-4 treatments".<ref>http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~royerc/interest.htm</ref> The frequency with which adults need to be treated for roundworms is controversial: *''Skunk Haven'' as well as skunk expert Mary Kaye Ashley and ADSA, Inc. recommend: "After the first series of wormings, you should worm every 4-6 months".<ref>[http://www.skunkhaven.net/NewSkunk.htm Skunk Haven&#8482: Your New Skunk<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> *''Owners of Pet Skunks'' recommends "over the counter worm medication given every couple of months and a yearly stool sample check at the vet".<ref>[http://www.skunk-info.org/petcare/petcare.htm Owners Of Pet Skunks: Pet Care Instructions<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> *Skunk expert Jane Bone recommends that all skunks be wormed once a month.<ref>[http://www.skunksaspets.com/skunkstuff.htm#ROUNDWORMS SkunkStuff<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The consensus is that Evict or Nemex 2 are good [[Over-the-counter substance|over-the-counter]] wormers for skunks. A veterinarian may have more powerful wormers. Safe, natural alternatives include seeds from cantaloupe, fig juice or cloves, according to Jane Bone. ===General considerations=== Overall, caring for skunks is more complicated and challenging than raising other pets. The difficulty in finding a veterinarian with experience treating skunks, the conflicting advice offered by different pet skunk organizations, and the scarcity of scientific knowledge about skunk physiology make it necessary for many skunk owners to fend for themselves. In addition, some skunks - especially those that were mistreated - may bite, refuse to use a litter box, or exhibit other negative behaviors, according to Jane Bone and Skunk Haven. According to James Furniss, a good skunk owner needs to be a do-it-yourselfer and willing to put in a lot of effort. There are, however, relocation options if a pet skunk does not work out, including skunk shelters.<ref>[http://www.skunkhaven.net Welcome to Skunk Haven&#8482<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> ==Rabies== Skunks and other mammals can contract [[rabies]] by being bitten by an infected animal or eating the carcass of an infected animal. Although it is quite rare for domesticated skunks to get rabies, there have been many unfortunate cases in which an uninfected pet skunk bit a person, and then was [[euthanized]] by animal control personnel so that its brain cells could be tested for rabies. In the [[United States]], there is no government-approved rabies vaccine or quarantine period for skunks. In [[Canada]], [[Imrab|Imrab 3]] is approved for off-label use as a skunk rabies vaccine.<ref>[http://www.aspenskunk.org/canadastudy.htm Canada Rabies Study<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> If a skunk nips or bites, and the owner can produce proof of vaccination, a 2-week quarantine is required, according to Vivianne Chernoff of Skunks as Pets Canada.<ref>http://www.skunksaspetscanada.cjb.net/</ref> Many countries, such as [[Japan]], require all newly imported skunks to be quarantined.<ref>http://www5.cao.go.jp/otodb/english/houseido/image/01040-1.pdf</ref> The Guardian recently reported that the UK lacks quarantine kennels licensed to hold skunks.<ref>[http://www.captiveanimals.org/news/2003/disease.htm Infectious disease time-bomb<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> ==Legality== [[Canada|Canadian]] pet skunks must be purchased from a [[USDA]]-certified breeder in the United States. An import permit is required from the [[Canadian Food Inspection Agency]] to bring the skunk into the country. The skunk must be spayed or neutered, and receive a [[Microchip implant (animal)|microchip implant]] or [[tattoo]]. A vet check fee must also be paid. Black-and-white skunks are illegal in Canada. Pet skunks kept for any reason are banned in the Canadian province of [[Ontario]], as of 1999. A brief attempt to lobby the provincial government to allow for captive-bred skunks to be excluded from the regulation, which pertained to wildlife native to Ontario being kept in captivity, was unsuccessful. Skunks may be kept as pets in the United Kingdom under revisions to the Wild Animals Act 1976. There is currently little understanding in the UK about their specific requirements. As skunks are potent vectors for many zoonotic and epizootic infections, they must be considered a disease risk on import. In particular, the risk of Rabies import from skunks into the UK (currently Rabies free) is high and they must therefore undergo the full 6 month quarantine procedures. American laws on skunk ownership vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. American skunk dealers earning more than $500 a year on the skunk trade are regulated by the [[United States Department of Agriculture]] [[Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service]] (USDA/APHIS), which has established three classes of licensed skunk dealers.<ref>[http://www.aphis.usda.gov/lpa/pubs/awlicreg.html APHIS | News<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> A class A license allows one to breed skunks; a class B license allows one to sell skunks; and a class C license allows one to display them to the public. Skunk regulations can change from time to time, so prospective skunk owners may want to check with the [[Fish and Game Commission]] or [[Department of Conservation and Natural Resources]] in their state. <!--If you change this legal info, please cite your source.--> {| border="1" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" width="90%" style="border:0 none transparent; border-collapse:collapse; text-align:left; vertical-align:top;" |+'''Legality of skunk ownership in the United States''' |- style="border-bottom: 3px double #999;" ! State ! Legality ! Statute |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Alabama]] | Legal, if bred in state || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Alaska]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Arkansas]] | Illegal ||<ref>[http://www.agfc.com/pdf/agfc_code_of_regulations.pdf Game and Fish Commission Code]</ref> 15.18 |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Arizona]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[California]] | Illegal ||<ref>[http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/ca.html Health Requirements Governing the Admission of Animals]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Colorado]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Connecticut]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Delaware]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Florida]] | Legal, with permit || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Georgia (U.S. state)|Georgia]] | Illegal |<ref>[http://georgiawildlife.dnr.state.ga.us/content/displaycontent.asp?txtDocument=6&txtPage=2 Dept. of Natural Resources Laws Related to Native Wildlife]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Hawaii]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Idaho]] | Illegal |<ref>[http://www3.state.id.us/cgi-bin/newidst?sctid=250020036.K Statute 25-236]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Illinois]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Indiana]] | Legal, with permit || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Iowa]] | Legal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Kansas]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Kentucky]] | Legal in some counties |<ref>[http://www.lrc.state.ky.us/kar/301/002/081.htm Administrative Regulations 301 2:081(6)(2)(g)]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Louisiana]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Maine]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Maryland]] | Illegal |<ref>[http://government.westlaw.com/mdcode/ Maryland Code]</ref> §10-621(b)(1)) |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Massachusetts]] | Illegal (September 2006) || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Michigan]] | Legal with permit; outside cage must be built; must be bred in state. || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Minnesota]] | Illegal ||<ref>[http://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/stats/145/365.html Statute 145.365]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Mississippi]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Missouri]] | Illegal ||<ref>[http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/mo.html Wildlife Code 3 CSR 10-9]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Montana]] | Illegal |<ref>[http://data.opi.state.mt.us/bills/mca/50/23/50-23-101.htm Montana code 50-23-101] and [http://data.opi.state.mt.us/bills/mca/50/23/50-23-102.htm 50-23-102]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Nebraska]] | Illegal |<ref>[http://statutes.unicam.state.ne.us/Corpus/statutes/chap37/R3704077.html Statute 37-477(2)]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Nevada]] | Illegal |<ref>[http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/nv.html Health Requirements Governing the Admission of Animals]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[New Hampshire]] | Striped skunks illegal; hooded and spotted legal. || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[New Jersey]] | Legal, with permit & if bred in state. |<ref>[http://www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/sregs/nj.html Health Requirements Governing the Admission of Animals]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[New Mexico]] | Legal, with permit |<ref>[http://www.nmcpr.state.nm.us/nmac/parts/title07/07.004.0002.htm Administrative Code 7.4.2.12]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[New York]] | Legal with permit, in some areas only. || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[North Carolina]] | Legal ||<ref>[http://www.agr.state.nc.us/vet/cwdregs.htm Administrative Code 52B.0212(a)(1)]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[North Dakota]] | Illegal |<ref>[http://www.agdepartment.com/Programs/Livestock/BOAH/AnimalImportation.htm State Board of Animal Health Animal Importation Requirements]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Ohio]] | Legal, with permit || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Oklahoma]] | Legal, but must have import permit and health certificate. || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Oregon]] | Legal, if bought outside of the state, with import permit and health certificate. Illegal to sell or trade skunks. || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Pennsylvania]] | Legal, with permit || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Rhode Island]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[South Carolina]] | Permit now required; currently owned are legal, but no more will be permitted. Illegal to buy or sell skunks. |<ref>[http://www.scstatehouse.net/code/t47c005.htm Code of Laws Title 47 Chapter 5] and [http://www.scstatehouse.net/code/t50c016.htm Title 50 Chapter 16 Section 50-16-20]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[South Dakota]] | Legal without permit; only one skunk per person. || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Tennessee]] | Illegal |<ref>[http://www.michie.com/tennessee/lpExt.dll?f=templates&eMail=Y&fn=main-h.htm&cp=tncode/25b4b/25cc3/25d62/25d87 Tennessee Code 70-4-208]</ref> TC 70-4-208 |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Texas]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Utah]] | Illegal |<ref>[http://wildlife.utah.gov/rules/R657-03.php UT Admin Code R657-3]</ref>R657-3 |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Vermont]] | Illegal || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Virginia]] | Illegal |<ref>[http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?000+reg+4VAC15-20-50 Virginia Administrative Code 4 15-20-50] and [http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?000+reg+4VAC15-30-10 4 15-30-10]. See ''[[Legality of pet skunks in Virginia]]</ref>''. |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Washington]] | Illegal |<ref>[http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=246-100-191 Administrative Code 246-100-191(1)(b)(ii)]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[West Virginia]] | Legal, with permit || |- style="border-bottom:1px solid #999;" ! [[Wisconsin]] | Legal, with permit ||<ref>[http://www.skunkhaven.net/images/WICh169.pdf Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 169] and [http://www.skunkhaven.net/images/WINR16.pdf Dept. of Natural Resurces Chapter NR 16]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:3px double #999;" ! [[Wyoming]] | Legal (classified as predatory animals; as such may be kept as pets with no license required) |<ref>[http://legisweb.state.wy.us/statutes/titles/title23/c01a01.htm Statute 23-1-101]</ref> |- style="border-bottom:3px double #999;" ! [[Washington, D.C.]] | Illegal | |} ==Politics== Several activists are seeking legalization of pet skunks in the jurisdictions where they are currently banned. Their activities have included supporting bills and testifying before legislative panels. In 2001, Del. George W. Owings III introduced a bill in the Maryland legislature to legalize pet skunks in that state.<ref>[http://www.journalism.umd.edu/cns/wire/2001-editions/01-January-editions/010123-Tuesday/PolecatPets_CNS-UMCP.html Capital News Service wire feed<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Several officials spoke in opposition to the measure before the Environmental Matters committee. Mike Slattery, testifying on behalf of the [[Maryland Department of Natural Resources]], criticized the idea, saying it would encourage "[[Bambi (1942 movie)|Bambi]] syndrome", the tendency to domesticate wild animals. State health officials pointed out that the bill, [[Media:Hb0091f.PDF|HB 91]], required rabies vaccinations when there is no federally approved rabies vaccine for skunks.<ref>[http://www.dbm.state.md.us/SearchUtility/IndDetails.asp?EmpID=10639&OID=1881 Statewide Online Telephone Directory Individual Detail Listing<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> [[Rabies]] has, in fact, been a key issue in skunk-related legislative debates. Since wild skunks account for the second-largest number of rabies cases in [[wildlife]] in the US, many legislators have been reluctant to allow domestic skunks without an appropriate vaccine on the market. In addition to the problems at the state level, federal organizations set the policy for dealing with accidental skunk bites, which currently requires euthanizing the animal so rabies tests can be performed. In February 1990, a rabies vaccine called [[Imrab|Imrab 3]] was approved for [[ferret]]s.<ref>[http://www.animalforum.com/wferrethist.htm AnimalForum.com: history of domestic ferrets<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Many skunk advocates believe the vaccine would also be effective for skunks, and are pushing to have it tested for this use. They also favor clinical tests to determine the appropriate [[quarantine]]/observation period in case of a skunk bite. This would provide a way to test skunks without the need for euthanasia. According to Aspen Skunk Rabies Research, part of the reason this research hasn't been done yet is the high cost of these [[clinical trial]]s, which would be difficult for drug companies to recoup.<ref>[http://www.aspenskunk.org Aspen Skunk Rabies Research, Inc<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> In the early 2000s, People for Domestic Skunks gathered more than 4,000 signatures for its Nationwide Domestic Skunk Petition.<ref>[http://www.domesticskunks.com/petition.htm Petition<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> According to Aspen Skunk Rabies Research, Inc., the effectiveness of petitions is limited by the fact that many important decisions are made by national organizations.<ref>[http://www.aspenskunk.org/faqs.htm FAQs<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The [[National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians]]' annual Rabies Compendium sets the procedures for what to do if a skunk bites someone. In [[Canada]], Mike Freeman of Freeman's Exotic Skunks was ordered in 1999 by [[Natural Resources Canada]] to destroy his entire stock of 100 adult and 700 baby skunks. Although the agency had approved his farm in 1997, the 1998 Fish and Wildlife Act outlawed breeding. NRC Minister John Snobelen ultimately gave him six months to sell or give away the animals in the U.S., saying, "No one wants to see these animals euthanized and that won't have to happen".<ref>[http://www.rdwarf.com/pipermail/skunks/1999-May/018228.html]{{Dead link|date=March 2008}}</ref> Skunks as Pets Canada leader Vivianne Chernoff and other activists subsequently persuaded the [[Canadian Food Inspection Agency]] to legalize importation of pen-bred skunks.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} Although NRC does not recognize the CFIA laws, the CFIA assured Chernoff that NRC cannot confiscate a micro-chipped skunk whose legality is documented with import papers and a health certificate. In 2004, Canadian activists were working on having a tear duct rabies test legalized for skunks.<ref>http://www.skunksaspetscanada.cjb.net/</ref> In the [[United Kingdom]], the [[Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons]] recommended in 1987 that elective skunk scent gland removal be classified as an unacceptable procedure:<ref>[http://www.rcvs.org.uk/Templates/PreviousNext.asp?NodeID=89772 RCVS Online / k. Mutilations report<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> ''The discharge of anal sac contents as a result of fear or other stress is normal, and the removal of normally functioning sacs is not an acceptable procedure. Infection or other pathological conditions can result in recurring or chronic discharge or in fistula and sinus formation. Removal in such circumstances is an acceptable therapeutic measure. Anal sacs are sometimes removed from animals such as the skunk and fox in order to make them more acceptable as domestic animals. The Working Party does not accept that this is an ethical procedure and considers that anal sacs should not be removed for other than therapeutic reasons.'' ==Organizations== Pet skunk organizations can be a source of useful advice for skunk owners. Some organizations also hold annual skunk shows. Prizes are awarded in categories such as Prettiest Tail, Friendliest, Most Talented, etc. The American Domestic Skunk Association provides the following services to all skunk owners, prospective owners, and interested parties:<ref>http://www.skunks.org/</ref> *Education for Skunk Owners & the General Public *24-Hour Phone & Web Support *Skunk Kitten Adoptions *Rescue, Rehabilitation & Adoption *Skunk Shows & Events *Newsletters & Skunk Care Guide *Research Program Owners of Pet Skunks is a non-profit organization whose mission is to better the lives of captive-bred skunks. OOPS has an annual picnic and publishes a quarterly newsletter containing informative articles about skunks, human interest stories, puzzles, information on skunk related laws, and regional and national events.<ref>[http://www.skunk-info.org/ Owners Of Pet Skunks: Helping Skunks & their Owners<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> '''Skunk Haven Skunk Rescue, Shelter, and Education, Inc.''' is based in Ohio and provides the following services: * For emergencies, staff are on call 24/7 by phone and/or via the Internet. * An international network of people helping with rescues. Teaching new owners about diet, health, and behaviors of their pet skunk. Also assisting prospective owners to determine if a skunk is a viable pet to fit their lifestyle phone or email, and also through our Yahoo skunk list, SkunkInfo. * The shelter has Federal USDA/APHIS and State permits to accept surrendered pet skunks into the shelter and to perform adoptions nationally. Also, these permits allow SkunkHaven to perform exhibition and education programs. * Skunk Haven will provide free Skunk Care brochures to any public or private source upon request. * Skunk Haven has set blood normals for skunks and has current ongoing collective data being performed by a licensed veterinarian.<ref>[http://www.skunkhaven.net/VetCare.htm Skunk Haven&#8482: Veterinary Care (pg. 1)<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> * Skunk Haven also maintains a regularly updated list of legal states.<ref>[http://www.skunkhaven.net/StatesForm.htm Skunk Haven&#8482: State Laws / Skunk Ownership<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> * The homebase of Skunk Haven, in North Ridgeville, OH, is the home of SkunkFest. SkunkFest is held each year on the second Saturday in September. The organization has a newsletter called SkunkNews and a Yahoo discussion list.<ref>[http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SkunkInfo/ SkunkInfo : SkunkInfo<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> * The homebase is also licensed for rehab/release of wild skunks. Skunks as Pets has chapters in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, North Dakota, Mississippi, New Jersey, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, Canada, and Germany.<ref>[http://www.skunksaspets.com/skunkstuff.htm#CALL_LIST SkunkStuff<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> ==References== {{reflist|2}} ==External links== {{external links}} {{Illustrated Wikipedia|Petskunkweb.JPG}} ===General information=== *[http://www.aspenskunk.org/ Aspen Skunk Rabies Research, Inc.] ASRR's mission is "to obtain a government approved rabies vaccine and quarantine period for skunks so that skunks, and the people who love them, can live in harmony without fear of rabies or rabies testing." *[http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art3899.asp Bow to Me for I am the Domestic Skunk], Diana Geiger, BellaOnline. Brief overview of skunk care. *[http://www5.cao.go.jp/otodb/english/houseido/image/01040-1.pdf Detention Period of Dogs, Cats, Raccoons, Foxes and Skunks In Accordance with the Rabies Prevention Law], Animal Quarantine Service, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Japan. *[http://exoticpets.about.com/cs/skunks/a/findskunks.htm Finding a Pet Skunk: Tips of Finding and Selecting A Skunk Breeder], Lianne McLeod, Exotic Pets writer. Detailed info on finding a good-quality skunk. *[http://www.animalforum.com/wferrethist.htm The History of Ferrets], Pamela Grant, STAR*Ferrets. *[[Media:Hb0091f.PDF|House Bill 91]], An Act Concerning Disease Prevention - Rabies - Domestic Skunks, Maryland House of Delegates, 2001. *[http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~royerc/interest.htm Information on Parasites in Skunks] by Matt Bolek, Diagnostic Parasitologist. *[http://www.skunk-info.org/ Owners of Pet Skunks] Skunk care advice, reference materials, photos, and more. *[http://www.puzzolaamericana.com/ Puzzola Americana] Skunks in Italy *[http://www.rcvs.org.uk/Templates/PreviousNext.asp?NodeID=89772 Report of Working Party Established by RCVS Council to Consider the Mutilation of Animals], Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, Feb. 1987. *[http://skunkville.homestead.com/skunkcolors.html Skunk Colors], The Skunk's Den Shop. *[http://www.skunkhaven.net/ Skunk Haven] Skunk Rescue, Shelter, and Education, Inc. *[http://www.skunksaspets.com/skunkstuff.htm Skunk Stuff], a comprehensive guide to skunk ownership covering a variety of topics of interest to prospective skunk owners. The author, Jane Bone, has owned more than 1,000 skunks and done research in conjunction with the San Diego Zoo. *[http://home.comcast.net/~mustalayday/skunk_faq.htm Skunks 101] Frequently asked questions answered by Eugie and Matthew Foster. *[http://www.skunksaspetscanada.cjb.net/ Skunks as Pets Canada] The Canadian SAP chapter has information on importing skunks from other countries. *[http://www.stichtinghetstinkdier.nl/ Stichting Het Stinkdier], Dutch skunk enthusiasts. *[http://www.vickifox.com/skunk_pets.php Vicki Fox's skunk page] Brief introduction to skunk ownership. *[http://exoticpets.about.com/cs/skunks/a/skunksaspets.htm What to Expect from a Pet Skunk], Lianne McLeod, exotic pets writer. *[http://www.dragoo.org Wild Skunk Information], Dr. Jerry Dragoo, Dragoo Institute for the Betterment of Skunks and Skunk Reputations. *[http://www.mephitis.de/ Alles über Stinktiere], German skunk enthusiasts. ===News articles=== *[http://www.rdwarf.com/pipermail/skunks/1999-May/018228.html 6-Month Reprieve Stinks, Skunk Breeder Says], Theresa Boyle, Toronto Star, [[28 April]] [[1999]]. *[http://www.journalism.umd.edu/cns/wire/2001-editions/01-January-editions/010123-Tuesday/PolecatPets_CNS-UMCP.html Allowing Skunks as Pets Stinks, Some Lawmakers Say], Nashiah Ahmad, Capital News Service, [[23 January]] [[2001]]. *[http://www.captiveanimals.org/news/2003/disease.htm Infectious Disease Time-Bomb], Captive Animals Protection Society. *[http://theezine.net/articles/51/MILLIONS-OF-AMERICANS-KEEP-PEPE-LE-PEW-AS-HOUSEHOLD-PET.html Millions of Americans Keep Pepe Le Pew as Household Pet], Jamie Spikes. *[http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk_news/story/0,3604,1016722,00.html Skunk's Allure is Heaven Scent, Owners Told], James Meikle, The Guardian, [[12 August]] [[2003]]. [[Category:Animals kept as pets|Skunk]] [[Category:Skunks]]