Can You Have a Pet Squirrel in Ohio: Legality & Care

Can You Have A Pet Squirrel In Ohio? Understanding the legalities and care requirements for keeping a squirrel as a pet in Ohio is crucial. At PETS.EDU.VN, we provide clear guidance on exotic pet ownership, focusing on Ohio’s specific regulations and offering alternatives if squirrel ownership isn’t possible. Discover essential information on pet squirrel permits, responsible wildlife ownership, and alternative exotic pets, ensuring you are well-informed and prepared.

1. Is it Legal to Keep a Squirrel as a Pet in Ohio?

No, generally, it is not legal to keep a squirrel as a pet in Ohio without the proper permits and licenses. While some states have lenient laws regarding pet squirrels, Ohio has stricter regulations to protect both native wildlife and potential pet owners.

Ohio’s laws are designed to prevent the unauthorized possession of wild animals, including squirrels. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) regulates the possession of wild animals, and these regulations generally prohibit keeping native wildlife as pets without specific permits. This is in line with efforts to protect the state’s biodiversity and prevent the spread of diseases between wild and domestic animals.

1.1 What Does Ohio Law Say About Owning Squirrels?

Ohio law primarily addresses the possession of wild animals through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Owning a squirrel typically requires a permit, as they are considered wild animals native to the state.

According to the ODNR, it is illegal to possess most wild animals without a permit. Squirrels fall under this category. The specific regulations are outlined in the Ohio Administrative Code, which details the requirements for permits, including demonstrating proper facilities and knowledge to care for the animal. The goal of these laws is to protect Ohio’s native wildlife and prevent the spread of diseases, ensuring that only qualified individuals possess these animals.

1.2 What Kind of Squirrels Can Be Pet in Ohio?

Even with a permit, the species of squirrels that can be kept as pets in Ohio is severely restricted and must adhere to stringent state guidelines.

Ohio’s regulations prioritize native wildlife protection. Therefore, non-native squirrel species are more likely to be considered permissible under specific permits, provided they do not pose an ecological risk. However, even these instances require thorough documentation and approval from the ODNR. If you’re considering a non-native squirrel, PETS.EDU.VN advises consulting directly with ODNR to ensure compliance with all state and local regulations, helping you make an informed and responsible decision.

1.3 Are There Exceptions to the Rule?

Yes, there are limited exceptions where you might be able to keep a squirrel temporarily in Ohio, typically for rehabilitation purposes.

Wildlife rehabilitators, licensed by the ODNR, are permitted to care for injured or orphaned squirrels with the intent of releasing them back into the wild. These individuals must adhere to strict guidelines to prevent the animals from becoming habituated to humans, ensuring their survival upon release. It’s crucial to understand that this exception is for temporary care only, not for permanent pet ownership. If you find an injured squirrel, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or your local ODNR office for assistance.

2. How to Obtain a Permit to Keep a Squirrel

Obtaining a permit to keep a squirrel in Ohio involves navigating a detailed process with specific requirements set by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

2.1 What Permits Are Required?

The specific permit required to keep a squirrel in Ohio is generally a Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit or a Non-commercial Propagating License, depending on the circumstances.

A Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit is necessary if you intend to care for injured or orphaned squirrels with the goal of releasing them back into the wild. This permit requires demonstrating knowledge of wildlife care and proper facilities. A Non-commercial Propagating License might be considered if you plan to keep a non-native squirrel species, but approval is rare and requires extensive justification that the animal poses no threat to the local ecosystem. PETS.EDU.VN recommends contacting the ODNR directly for clarification on the specific permits needed for your situation.

2.2 What Are the Requirements to Obtain a Permit?

To obtain a permit from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) for keeping a squirrel, you typically need to meet several key requirements.

1. Application Submission: Complete and submit the official application form provided by the ODNR. This form requires detailed information about the applicant, the animal, and the purpose for keeping it.
2. Background Check: Pass a background check to ensure you have no prior wildlife violations.
3. Facility Inspection: Your property may be subject to inspection to ensure it meets specific standards for housing and care, providing a safe and secure environment for the animal.
4. Knowledge and Experience: Demonstrate sufficient knowledge and experience in caring for squirrels or similar wildlife. This may involve providing documentation of relevant training, education, or experience.
5. Veterinary Support: Provide documentation of a working relationship with a licensed veterinarian who is knowledgeable about squirrel care.
6. Compliance with Regulations: Adhere to all state and federal regulations regarding the possession and care of wildlife, including those related to animal welfare and public safety.

2.3 How Long Does It Take to Get a Permit?

The time it takes to get a permit to keep a squirrel in Ohio can vary, but it generally takes several weeks to a few months.

The duration depends on factors such as the completeness of your application, the ODNR’s workload, and the need for facility inspections. The ODNR processes applications in the order they are received, and any missing or incomplete information can cause delays. Facility inspections, if required, also add to the timeline. To expedite the process, PETS.EDU.VN advises ensuring your application is thorough and includes all necessary documentation, and proactively following up with the ODNR to check on the status.

3. Challenges of Keeping a Squirrel as a Pet

Keeping a squirrel as a pet presents numerous challenges that potential owners must consider.

3.1 What Are the Specific Needs of Squirrels?

Squirrels have specific needs, including a specialized diet, ample space for activity, and environmental enrichment, that can be difficult for many owners to meet.

Squirrels require a diet rich in nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables, often supplemented with commercially available squirrel food. They need a large, secure enclosure that allows them to climb, jump, and explore, mimicking their natural habitat. Mental stimulation is crucial; providing toys, climbing structures, and opportunities for foraging can prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Additionally, squirrels need a clean environment to prevent disease and require regular veterinary check-ups from a vet experienced with exotic animals.

3.2 What Are the Potential Dangers?

Potential dangers of keeping a squirrel as a pet include the risk of bites and scratches, the spread of diseases, and the challenges of managing their natural behaviors in a domestic setting.

Squirrels have sharp teeth and claws, and even well-socialized squirrels may bite or scratch when stressed or scared. They can carry diseases, such as salmonellosis and tularemia, which can be transmitted to humans. In a domestic environment, squirrels may exhibit destructive behaviors like chewing on furniture and electrical wires, and their strong instinct to bury food can create messes. Furthermore, if a pet squirrel escapes, it can be difficult to recapture and may struggle to survive in the wild.

3.3 What Are the Ethical Considerations?

Ethical considerations of keeping a squirrel as a pet involve concerns about animal welfare, conservation, and the impact on native wildlife populations.

Removing a squirrel from its natural habitat or breeding them in captivity can disrupt local ecosystems and contribute to the decline of wild populations. Squirrels have complex social and behavioral needs that are difficult to meet in a domestic environment, potentially leading to stress and suffering. Keeping wildlife as pets can also normalize the exploitation of animals for human entertainment. PETS.EDU.VN encourages considering the ethical implications and prioritizing the well-being and conservation of squirrels and other wildlife.

4. Responsible Wildlife Ownership

Responsible wildlife ownership involves understanding and meeting the complex needs of the animal, complying with all legal requirements, and prioritizing conservation efforts.

4.1 How to Provide a Proper Habitat?

Providing a proper habitat for a pet squirrel involves creating a secure and enriching environment that mimics their natural surroundings as closely as possible.

1. Enclosure Size: A large enclosure is essential to allow squirrels to climb, jump, and explore. A good minimum size is 8 feet high, 6 feet wide, and 4 feet deep.
2. Secure Construction: The enclosure must be made of sturdy materials like wire mesh to prevent escapes. Ensure there are no gaps or weak points that the squirrel can exploit.
3. Climbing Structures: Include branches, ropes, and platforms at various heights to encourage natural climbing behavior.
4. Nesting Box: Provide a nesting box or den where the squirrel can retreat to feel safe and secure.
5. Foraging Opportunities: Scatter food around the enclosure to encourage foraging behavior. You can also use puzzle feeders to provide mental stimulation.
6. Cleanliness: Regularly clean the enclosure to prevent the buildup of waste and bacteria.
7. Temperature Control: Ensure the enclosure is protected from extreme temperatures and has proper ventilation.
8. Natural Light: Provide access to natural sunlight or use full-spectrum lighting to support the squirrel’s health and well-being.

4.2 How to Ensure Proper Nutrition?

Ensuring proper nutrition for a pet squirrel involves providing a balanced diet that meets their specific dietary needs.

1. Variety of Foods: Offer a variety of foods, including nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and commercially available squirrel food.
2. Nutrient Balance: Ensure the diet is balanced in protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Consult with a veterinarian or wildlife expert for guidance on specific nutrient requirements.
3. Avoid Processed Foods: Avoid feeding squirrels processed foods, sugary treats, and foods high in salt or unhealthy fats.
4. Fresh Water: Always provide access to fresh, clean water.
5. Calcium Supplementation: Supplement the diet with calcium to support bone health, especially for young squirrels.
6. Limited Treats: Limit treats to occasional offerings and choose healthy options like nuts and fruits.
7. Monitor Weight: Monitor the squirrel’s weight and adjust the diet as needed to maintain a healthy body condition.
8. Seasonal Adjustments: Adjust the diet based on the season, providing more high-fat foods in the fall to prepare for winter.

4.3 How to Provide Enrichment?

Providing enrichment for a pet squirrel is essential for their mental and physical well-being, helping to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

1. Toys: Offer a variety of toys, such as chew toys, puzzle toys, and balls, to keep the squirrel entertained.
2. Climbing Opportunities: Provide plenty of climbing structures like branches, ropes, and platforms.
3. Foraging Activities: Hide food around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behaviors.
4. Social Interaction: If possible, provide opportunities for social interaction with other squirrels or with humans.
5. Rotation of Items: Regularly rotate toys and enrichment items to keep the environment fresh and interesting.
6. Training: Engage in training activities, such as teaching the squirrel to come when called or perform simple tricks, to provide mental stimulation.
7. Natural Materials: Incorporate natural materials like leaves, twigs, and pine cones into the enclosure to mimic their natural habitat.
8. Sensory Enrichment: Provide sensory enrichment through different textures, sounds, and smells.

5. Alternatives to Keeping a Squirrel as a Pet

If keeping a squirrel as a pet is not feasible or legal, there are alternative ways to enjoy and interact with wildlife.

5.1 What Other Exotic Pets Are Legal in Ohio?

Ohio permits certain exotic pets under specific conditions, offering alternatives to squirrels while complying with state regulations.

Ohio allows owning certain non-native animals with the proper permits and adherence to strict guidelines. This includes some reptiles (like non-venomous snakes and lizards), certain birds (such as parrots and macaws), and some small mammals (like hedgehogs and sugar gliders). Each species has specific requirements for housing, care, and permits, which are regulated by the Ohio Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Always verify the current regulations with these agencies and consult with a veterinarian experienced in exotic animal care to ensure responsible and legal pet ownership.

5.2 How Can You Enjoy Wildlife Responsibly?

Enjoying wildlife responsibly involves engaging in activities that respect and protect animals and their habitats.

1. Wildlife Observation: Participate in birdwatching, wildlife photography, and guided nature tours to observe animals in their natural habitat without disturbing them.
2. Support Conservation Efforts: Donate to conservation organizations, participate in habitat restoration projects, and advocate for policies that protect wildlife and their habitats.
3. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about local wildlife species and their ecological roles, and share this knowledge with others to promote awareness and conservation.
4. Respect Wildlife Boundaries: Maintain a safe distance from wild animals, avoid feeding them, and never attempt to handle or capture them.
5. Create Wildlife Habitats: Plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers in your yard to provide food and shelter for local wildlife.
6. Reduce Your Environmental Impact: Practice sustainable living by reducing your carbon footprint, conserving water, and avoiding the use of pesticides and herbicides.
7. Report Wildlife Concerns: Report any instances of wildlife endangerment, illegal activity, or injured animals to the appropriate authorities.

5.3 What Are the Best Practices for Observing Wildlife?

Best practices for observing wildlife include maintaining a respectful distance, minimizing disturbance, and respecting their natural behaviors.

1. Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance from animals to avoid causing stress or altering their behavior. Use binoculars or telephoto lenses for closer views.
2. Minimize Noise: Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could startle or disturb wildlife.
3. Respect Boundaries: Stay on designated trails and avoid entering sensitive habitats, such as nesting areas or breeding grounds.
4. Avoid Feeding: Never feed wild animals, as this can disrupt their natural foraging behaviors, make them dependent on humans, and lead to overpopulation.
5. Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in and avoid leaving any trash or food scraps behind.
6. Respect Their Space: Be aware of signs of stress or discomfort in animals, such as changes in posture or vocalizations, and give them space if they appear agitated.
7. Stay Informed: Learn about the specific behaviors and needs of the animals you are observing to better understand and respect their environment.
8. Be Patient: Wildlife observation requires patience. Spend time quietly observing and waiting for animals to appear, rather than actively searching for them.

6. Health and Safety Considerations

When considering keeping any pet, understanding the health and safety considerations is crucial to ensure the well-being of both the animal and the owner.

6.1 What Diseases Can Squirrels Carry?

Squirrels can carry several diseases that can be transmitted to humans, including rabies, tularemia, salmonellosis, and leptospirosis.

1. Rabies: Although rare in squirrels, rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is transmitted through bites or scratches.
2. Tularemia: Also known as “rabbit fever,” tularemia is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through contact with infected animals, insect bites, or contaminated water.
3. Salmonellosis: A bacterial infection that causes gastrointestinal illness, salmonellosis can be transmitted through contact with squirrel feces or contaminated surfaces.
4. Leptospirosis: A bacterial disease that affects the kidneys and liver, leptospirosis can be transmitted through contact with urine from infected animals.
5. Ringworm: A fungal infection that causes skin lesions, ringworm can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals.
6. Lyme Disease: Transmitted through tick bites, Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, fatigue, and joint pain.

6.2 How to Prevent Disease Transmission?

Preventing disease transmission from squirrels involves practicing good hygiene, taking precautions to avoid bites and scratches, and seeking prompt medical attention if exposed.

1. Wash Hands Regularly: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling squirrels or their habitats.
2. Wear Gloves: Wear gloves when cleaning squirrel enclosures or handling potentially contaminated materials.
3. Avoid Direct Contact: Avoid direct contact with squirrel feces, urine, and saliva.
4. Control Pests: Implement pest control measures to prevent the spread of diseases by insects and rodents.
5. Vaccinate Pets: Ensure your pets are vaccinated against diseases that can be transmitted to humans, such as rabies.
6. Seek Medical Attention: If you are bitten or scratched by a squirrel, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.
7. Educate Yourself: Learn about the diseases that squirrels can carry and the steps you can take to prevent transmission.
8. Maintain a Clean Environment: Keep squirrel enclosures and surrounding areas clean and free of debris to minimize the risk of disease transmission.

6.3 What Safety Precautions Should Be Taken?

Safety precautions when interacting with squirrels include wearing protective clothing, avoiding direct contact, and being aware of their natural behaviors.

1. Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves, gloves, and other protective clothing when handling squirrels or cleaning their enclosures to minimize the risk of bites and scratches.
2. Avoid Direct Contact: Avoid direct contact with squirrels, especially if they appear sick or injured.
3. Supervise Children: Supervise children closely when they are around squirrels to prevent them from approaching or handling the animals.
4. Be Aware of Behaviors: Be aware of the squirrel’s natural behaviors, such as their tendency to bite or scratch when threatened.
5. Secure Enclosures: Ensure squirrel enclosures are secure and well-maintained to prevent escapes.
6. Use Caution When Feeding: If you choose to feed squirrels, do so from a distance and avoid hand-feeding.
7. Educate Yourself: Learn about squirrel behavior and safety precautions to minimize the risk of injury or disease transmission.
8. Seek Professional Help: If you are unable to safely handle or manage a squirrel, seek assistance from a qualified wildlife professional.

7. The Role of Wildlife Rehabilitators

Wildlife rehabilitators play a crucial role in caring for injured, orphaned, or displaced squirrels, with the goal of returning them to their natural habitat.

7.1 What Do Wildlife Rehabilitators Do?

Wildlife rehabilitators provide specialized care to injured, orphaned, or displaced squirrels, including medical treatment, feeding, and rehabilitation, with the goal of releasing them back into the wild.

1. Rescue: Rescue injured, orphaned, or displaced squirrels from urban and rural environments.
2. Medical Care: Provide medical treatment, including wound care, medication, and surgery, to injured squirrels.
3. Feeding: Provide appropriate nutrition and feeding schedules to orphaned or malnourished squirrels.
4. Rehabilitation: Provide a safe and supportive environment for squirrels to recover and regain their natural behaviors.
5. Release: Release rehabilitated squirrels back into their natural habitat when they are healthy and self-sufficient.
6. Education: Educate the public about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting native species.
7. Advocacy: Advocate for policies and practices that promote wildlife conservation and protect animal welfare.
8. Collaboration: Collaborate with other wildlife professionals, veterinarians, and conservation organizations to provide comprehensive care for squirrels.

7.2 How Can They Help Squirrels?

Wildlife rehabilitators help squirrels by providing them with the necessary care and support to recover from injuries, illnesses, or displacement, increasing their chances of survival in the wild.

1. Expert Care: Provide expert medical care, nutrition, and rehabilitation services to squirrels in need.
2. Safe Environment: Provide a safe and supportive environment for squirrels to recover and regain their natural behaviors.
3. Increased Survival Rates: Increase the chances of survival for injured, orphaned, or displaced squirrels.
4. Population Support: Support the health and stability of local squirrel populations.
5. Conservation: Contribute to wildlife conservation efforts by protecting native species and promoting biodiversity.
6. Community Engagement: Engage the community in wildlife conservation through education and outreach programs.
7. Ethical Practices: Adhere to ethical and humane practices in wildlife rehabilitation.
8. Long-Term Monitoring: Monitor released squirrels to assess their adaptation and survival in the wild.

7.3 How to Find a Licensed Rehabilitator?

Finding a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Ohio involves contacting the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) or searching online databases of licensed rehabilitators.

1. Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR): Contact the ODNR for a list of licensed wildlife rehabilitators in your area.
2. Online Databases: Search online databases of licensed wildlife rehabilitators, such as the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association (NWRA) or the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (IWRC).
3. Local Animal Shelters: Contact local animal shelters or humane societies for referrals to licensed wildlife rehabilitators.
4. Veterinarians: Ask your veterinarian for recommendations to licensed wildlife rehabilitators.
5. Wildlife Centers: Contact local wildlife centers or nature centers for referrals to licensed wildlife rehabilitators.
6. Community Groups: Check with local community groups or conservation organizations for referrals to licensed wildlife rehabilitators.
7. Social Media: Search social media platforms for wildlife rehabilitation groups or organizations in your area.
8. Word of Mouth: Ask friends, neighbors, or colleagues for recommendations to licensed wildlife rehabilitators.

8. Conservation Efforts and Squirrel Populations

Understanding conservation efforts and the status of squirrel populations is essential for promoting responsible wildlife stewardship.

8.1 What Is the Conservation Status of Squirrels in Ohio?

The conservation status of squirrels in Ohio varies depending on the species, with some species being common and abundant, while others may be of conservation concern.

Eastern gray squirrels and fox squirrels are common and abundant throughout Ohio and are not currently considered to be of conservation concern. However, other squirrel species, such as the southern flying squirrel, may be less common or face habitat loss and other threats, requiring conservation efforts to ensure their long-term survival.

8.2 How Can You Support Squirrel Conservation?

Supporting squirrel conservation involves habitat preservation, responsible wildlife management, and promoting awareness about the importance of these animals in the ecosystem.

1. Habitat Preservation: Support efforts to protect and preserve squirrel habitats, such as forests, parks, and green spaces.
2. Responsible Wildlife Management: Advocate for responsible wildlife management practices that minimize the impact of human activities on squirrel populations.
3. Promote Awareness: Educate others about the importance of squirrels in the ecosystem and the threats they face.
4. Reduce Environmental Impact: Reduce your environmental impact by conserving water, reducing waste, and avoiding the use of pesticides and herbicides.
5. Support Conservation Organizations: Donate to conservation organizations that work to protect squirrel habitats and promote responsible wildlife management.
6. Participate in Citizen Science: Participate in citizen science projects to monitor squirrel populations and track their movements.
7. Create Wildlife Habitats: Create wildlife habitats in your yard by planting native trees, shrubs, and flowers that provide food and shelter for squirrels.
8. Report Wildlife Concerns: Report any instances of wildlife endangerment, illegal activity, or injured animals to the appropriate authorities.

8.3 What Are the Threats to Squirrel Populations?

Threats to squirrel populations include habitat loss, fragmentation, vehicle collisions, predation, and disease.

1. Habitat Loss: Habitat loss due to deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion reduces the amount of available food, shelter, and nesting sites for squirrels.
2. Fragmentation: Habitat fragmentation isolates squirrel populations, limiting their ability to find mates and disperse to new areas.
3. Vehicle Collisions: Squirrels are often killed by vehicles when crossing roads and highways.
4. Predation: Squirrels are preyed upon by a variety of animals, including hawks, owls, foxes, and domestic cats and dogs.
5. Disease: Squirrels are susceptible to a variety of diseases, such as mange, coccidiosis, and squirrel poxvirus, which can cause illness and death.
6. Climate Change: Climate change can alter squirrel habitats, disrupt their food sources, and increase their vulnerability to extreme weather events.
7. Competition: Competition with other squirrel species, such as the non-native eastern gray squirrel, can negatively impact native squirrel populations.
8. Human Disturbance: Human disturbance, such as noise, light pollution, and habitat alteration, can disrupt squirrel behavior and reduce their reproductive success.

9. Legal Consequences of Illegal Squirrel Ownership

Owning a squirrel illegally in Ohio can result in significant legal consequences, including fines, confiscation of the animal, and potential criminal charges.

9.1 What Are the Penalties for Illegal Possession?

Penalties for illegal possession of a squirrel in Ohio can include fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the specific violation and the discretion of the court.

In addition to fines, the illegally possessed squirrel may be confiscated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). The individual may also face misdemeanor charges, which can result in jail time. Repeat offenders may face more severe penalties, including higher fines and longer jail sentences. It’s crucial to understand and comply with Ohio’s wildlife laws to avoid these legal consequences.

9.2 Can the Squirrel Be Confiscated?

Yes, if you are found to be illegally possessing a squirrel in Ohio, the animal can be confiscated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

The ODNR has the authority to seize any wild animal held in violation of state laws and regulations. Once confiscated, the squirrel may be transferred to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, a zoo, or another appropriate facility. The decision on the squirrel’s placement depends on its health, age, and ability to survive in the wild. Confiscation is a serious consequence of illegal possession, emphasizing the importance of complying with all wildlife laws and obtaining the necessary permits before acquiring any wild animal.

9.3 What Happens to Confiscated Squirrels?

Confiscated squirrels in Ohio are typically transferred to licensed wildlife rehabilitators or appropriate facilities, depending on their health and ability to survive in the wild.

When a squirrel is confiscated, the ODNR assesses its condition to determine the best course of action. If the squirrel is healthy and able to be rehabilitated, it will be transferred to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator who can provide the necessary care and prepare it for release back into its natural habitat. If the squirrel is injured, sick, or unable to be released, it may be transferred to a zoo or another suitable facility where it can receive long-term care. The goal is always to ensure the well-being of the animal while also protecting Ohio’s native wildlife populations.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Pet Squirrels in Ohio

10.1 Is it legal to rehabilitate an injured squirrel in Ohio without a permit?

No, it is generally not legal to rehabilitate an injured squirrel in Ohio without the appropriate permits from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

10.2 What should I do if I find an orphaned baby squirrel in Ohio?

If you find an orphaned baby squirrel in Ohio, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) for guidance.

10.3 Can I keep a squirrel that I found in my yard as a pet in Ohio?

No, keeping a squirrel that you found in your yard as a pet in Ohio is generally illegal without the proper permits and licenses.

10.4 What are the housing requirements for keeping a squirrel as a pet in Ohio?

Housing requirements for keeping a squirrel as a pet in Ohio, if permitted, include a large, secure enclosure that provides ample space for climbing, jumping, and foraging.

10.5 What do pet squirrels eat?

Pet squirrels eat a varied diet including nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and commercially available squirrel food, ensuring a balance of nutrients.

10.6 Are squirrels good pets for children?

Squirrels are generally not recommended as pets for children due to their specific care needs and potential for bites and scratches.

10.7 How long do pet squirrels live?

Pet squirrels can live for 8-12 years with proper care and nutrition.

10.8 Can squirrels be trained?

Yes, squirrels can be trained to perform simple tasks using positive reinforcement techniques, but they require patience and consistency.

10.9 What diseases can squirrels transmit to humans?

Squirrels can transmit diseases such as rabies, tularemia, salmonellosis, and leptospirosis to humans.

10.10 How can I prevent squirrels from entering my home?

To prevent squirrels from entering your home, seal any openings or cracks in your foundation, roof, and around pipes, and trim tree branches that overhang your house.

Understanding Ohio’s laws and the responsibilities of pet ownership is essential. While keeping a squirrel as a pet in Ohio can be challenging due to legal restrictions and the specific needs of these animals, PETS.EDU.VN is here to provide you with the information and resources you need.

Whether you’re looking for information on permits, alternative pets, or responsible wildlife interaction, we’ve got you covered. At PETS.EDU.VN, we address the challenges pet owners face by providing reliable and comprehensive information. We understand the confusion caused by conflicting advice, and we strive to offer clear, trustworthy guidance. If you’re puzzled by unusual pet behaviors or need assistance finding reputable local pet care services, PETS.EDU.VN is your go-to resource.

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