Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes ofwebsite accessibilityNY Lawmaker working to close loophole that allows ownership of exotic pets, like sloths | WRGB
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NY Lawmaker working to close loophole that allows ownership of exotic pets, like sloths


A sloth at The Wild Animal Park in Chittenango (Photo: CNYCentral).
A sloth at The Wild Animal Park in Chittenango (Photo: CNYCentral).
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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.

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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.

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