NY Lawmaker working to close loophole that allows ownership of exotic pets, like sloths
ALBANY, NY (WRGB) — A New York State lawmaker wants to ban the sale or ownership of exotic animals as pets.
The proposed state law from Democratic Senator Monica Martinez (D-BRENTWOOD) is meant to establish and expand a clear definition of wild and exotic animals to make sure they aren't imported, sold, or owned.
"Wild" animal would mean non-domesticated animals native to the country in which they live. Exotic means a wild animal from a different continent.
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Implying right now, because of a loophole in state law, you could theoretically own pet dolphins, elephants, sloths, and kangaroos.
State law does already ban people from raising animals like lions, tigers, or grizzly bears-- or apes and monkeys.
Proponents say exotic animals are hard to raise domestically as they say they have certain needs that can't be met.
The bill originated after an illegal petting zoo turned exotic animal store in Suffolk County was unlawfully selling various wild and exotic animals including sloths and kangaroos.
