Squirrels, with their bushy tails and playful antics, often charm us in parks and gardens. Reading stories about pet squirrels like Boogie can spark curiosity: Can You Buy Squirrels For Pets? While the idea of a pocket-sized, Cheeto-loving companion is appealing, it’s essential to understand the realities of keeping these wild animals as pets.
Boogie’s story, a squirrel found as a baby and raised by a family, illustrates the potential for a unique bond. “She was so smart,” her owner recounts, describing Boogie’s sneaky kitchen raids and fondness for Cheetos. Boogie’s intelligence wasn’t just about mischief; she was also interactive, playing with her owners and even alerting them to strangers, much like a dog. Her adventurous spirit was evident even during bath time, as she hilariously tried to evade a wash from her six-foot-tall owner.
However, Boogie’s story also highlights the need for boundaries when keeping a squirrel as a pet. Just like any pet, squirrels require training. Boogie’s owners had to teach her that the kitchen was off-limits, using a water bottle as a deterrent. This underscores a crucial point: squirrels are naturally curious and can be destructive if not properly managed. Their sharp teeth and claws, combined with their innate desire to explore and hoard, mean a squirrel-proofed environment is a must.
When considering “can you buy squirrels for pets,” it’s vital to move beyond the charming anecdotes and consider the bigger picture. While Boogie lived a happy life to the age of seven, and her owners clearly cherished her, the legality and ethical implications of keeping a squirrel as a pet are significant. Laws regarding wildlife vary greatly by location, and in many places, keeping a wild animal like a squirrel may be restricted or require permits. Furthermore, sourcing a squirrel ethically is crucial. Taking a squirrel from the wild is generally discouraged and may be illegal. The pet trade in squirrels is not as established as with animals like cats or dogs, meaning finding a reputable breeder or understanding the source of a pet squirrel can be challenging.
Ultimately, while stories like Boogie’s demonstrate that squirrels can form bonds with humans and be kept as pets, it’s crucial to approach the question “can you buy squirrels for pets” with caution and responsibility. Prospective squirrel owners must research local regulations, understand the significant commitment involved in caring for a wild animal, and ensure they can provide a suitable and enriching environment. Thinking about adopting a more conventional pet might be a more straightforward and ethical path for many animal lovers.
