Have you ever dreamed of having an exotic pet sloth? Before getting one, it’s important to understand the laws around sloth ownership. Sloths may seem like gentle, easy-going creatures, but they require very specific care and living conditions that make them unsuitable pets for most people.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Owning a sloth as a pet is highly regulated across the U.S. You’ll need to obtain permits and ensure you can properly care for a sloth before ownership is allowed in just a handful of states like Nevada, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, North Dakota, Oklahoma or West Virginia.
Overview of Sloth Ownership Laws
Federal Laws
There are no federal laws in the United States that explicitly prohibit private ownership of sloths. However, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regulates the import and export of wildlife under the Endangered Species Act and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
Two species of sloth – the maned three-toed sloth and the pygmy three-toed sloth – are listed as endangered, so importing or exporting them requires special permits.
State Laws
Sloth ownership laws vary widely by state. Here are some key examples:
- Florida, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Montana allow private possession of sloths with proper permits.
- New York, Virginia, and Hawaii explicitly prohibit possession of sloths as pets.
- California limits ownership to certain sloth species.
- Texas requires an exotic animal permit for “non-traditional” pets like sloths.
Additionally, many states prohibit ownership of animals designated as “dangerous wildlife,” which sometimes includes sloths. Check with your state’s department of wildlife or natural resources to understand the local laws.
Local Ordinances
Some cities and counties have additional restrictions on owning exotic pets, regardless of state laws. For example, Miami-Dade County in Florida bans ownership of sloths even though the state allows it. So check municipal codes for any exotic pet rules that apply in your specific area.
Requirements for Sloth Ownership
Permits and Licensing
Owning a sloth is highly regulated in the United States. Most states require special permits and licenses to keep a sloth as a pet. Here are some key things to consider regarding permits and licensing for sloth ownership:
- Nearly all states require an exotic animal permit to own a sloth. Fees are typically $100-$500 per year.
- Some states like Florida and Nevada prohibit private ownership of sloths altogether.
- You may need permission from your local zoning department or homeowners association.
- Importing sloths requires special permits from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
- Breeders and retailers must have a USDA license to sell sloths.
Enclosure Standards
Sloths have very specific habitat and enclosure requirements to thrive in captivity:
- Indoor enclosures should be a minimum of 10′ x 10′ x 8′ tall. Larger is better.
- Outdoor enclosures must have a sturdy roof and walls to prevent escape.
- Enclosures must have plenty of climbing branches, ropes, and hammocks at various heights.
- Provide a hiding place for sleeping and privacy.
- Proper temperature range is 75-85°F with moderate humidity.
- Double-door entries prevent escape.
- Substrate can be cypress mulch or orchid bark. Spot clean daily.
Dietary Needs
A proper sloth diet consists of:
- A staple leafy green diet of romaine lettuce, kale, spinach, and collard greens.
- Vegetables like yams, carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes provide variety.
- Some fruits like grapes, berries, and melons can be offered as treats.
- No meat products, dog/cat foods, or dairy should be fed.
- Clean water must be available at all times.
- Never allow access to toxic houseplants.
- Consult an exotic veterinarian for complete dietary recommendations.
Health and Safety
Sloths require attentive care and monitoring to remain healthy:
- Find an exotic vet with sloth experience for check-ups and treatment.
- Schedule annual exams, fecal tests, and bloodwork.
- Trim nails every 4-6 weeks to prevent overgrowth.
- Look for signs of illness like lethargy, diarrhea, or appetite changes.
- Quarantine new sloths for 30-45 days before introductions.
- Sanitize food bowls, toys, and enclosure daily.
- Have an emergency plan and sloth first aid kit prepared.
Financial Commitment
Owning a sloth is a considerable financial investment:
- Purchase price ranges from $3000-$8000 depending on species.
- Yearly costs for food, housing, vet care average $5000-$7500.
- Lifetime care can cost over $100,000.
- Exotic pet insurance plans are available but expensive.
- Designated caretakers for vacations incur added expenses.
- Enclosure construction and maintenance are costly.
- Unexpected healthcare costs like surgery can be tens of thousands.
Sloth ownership is a major commitment and responsibility. Make sure you thoroughly research all regulations and proper care guidelines before bringing one of these amazing animals into your home!
States Where Private Sloth Ownership is Allowed
Nevada
Nevada has some of the most lenient exotic animal laws in the country. Almost all exotic pets are legal to own here, including sloths. You will need to obtain a permit from the Nevada Department of Wildlife first.
Permit requirements include proof of ownership, an enclosure inspection, and microchipping your sloth. Nevada does not allow animals that have been caught from the wild to be kept as pets. Your sloth must be captive-bred to own it in Nevada.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has relatively relaxed laws when it comes to owning exotic pets. Sloths are not included on the list of prohibited species, so it is legal to own one with a permit. You will need to contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission to apply for a permit.
Permit requirements include microchipping, having a proper enclosure, and proving that you can safely care for a sloth.
South Dakota
South Dakota does not have any laws banning possession of exotic animals, so it’s one of the easiest states to own a sloth in. However, you will still need to obtain a permit from the Department of Game, Fish and Parks.
Permitting requirements include microchipping your sloth, documenting that it is not wild-caught, and allowing an inspection of your housing setup. As long as you meet these requirements, you should have no problem keeping a pet sloth in South Dakota.
North Dakota
Sloths are legal to own with a permit in North Dakota. You will need to apply for a possession permit through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. Requirements include microchipping your sloth, providing proper housing and nutrition, and allowing officials to inspect your property.
North Dakota laws prohibit capturing wild sloths to keep as pets – they must be acquired through legal channels and captive-bred. As long as you obtain the proper permitting, you can own a pet sloth in North Dakota.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma has some of the most relaxed exotic pet laws, and sloths are not included on their prohibited species list. However, you will still need to obtain a permit from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation before owning one.
Permitting requirements include providing your sloth’s microchip information, submitting a photograph, and describing its enclosure. Oklahoma laws do prohibit capturing wild sloths, so make sure yours comes from a reputable breeder. With the proper permit, owning a pet sloth is legal in Oklahoma.
West Virginia
Sloths are considered exotic pets in West Virginia, but you can legally own one with the proper permitting. You will need to apply for a permit through the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Requirements include providing your sloth’s microchip information, submitting a photograph, and describing its housing.
Your sloth must not be wild-caught – it will need to be captive-bred. As long as you meet the permit requirements and can properly care for a sloth, owning one as a pet is legal in West Virginia.
Caring for a Pet Sloth Ethically
Providing Proper Enclosure
An appropriate enclosure is key to keeping a sloth healthy and content. Sloths require large, tall enclosures to accommodate their unique lifestyle. The Sloth Conservation Foundation recommends an enclosure at least 10 feet high by 6 feet wide by 6 feet deep for one adult sloth.
The enclosure should have strong horizontal branches and ropes for climbing and hanging. It’s also vital to keep the environment very humid (at least 70%) and warm, from 75°F to 86°F.
Feeding a Healthy Diet
In the wild, sloths eat tree leaves, fruits, and insects. As pets, they require a varied diet including dark leafy greens like kale, carrots, sweet potatoes, grapes, hard-boiled eggs, and some insects. It’s essential to supplement with multivitamins too.
Work closely with an exotic veterinarian to ensure proper nutrition.
Keeping Emergency Funds
Exotic pets like sloths require specialized veterinary care that can be very expensive. According to the Sloth Institute, emergency funds of at least $5,000 are recommended to cover potential medical costs. Pet health insurance is also highly advised.
Giving Proper Attention
Sloths are very slow-moving animals that spend most of their time sleeping or hanging in trees. They should not be handled excessively. However, they do benefit from some daily interaction and environmental enrichment.
Providing branches, ropes, and toys for them to explore helps prevent boredom and stress. Spending calm time observing and gently interacting with them is best.
Avoiding Impulse Purchases
Owning a sloth is a major commitment. Sadly, many exotic pets end up abandoned when impulse buyers can no longer care for them. Never purchase a sloth on impulse. Thoroughly research their needs and be 100% certain you can provide lifetime care.
Some key considerations are the substantial expense, specialized diet/habitat, likelihood of 30+ year lifespan, and limitations on travel and activities due to extensive care requirements. Ensure any sloth is captive-bred, not wild-caught.
If in doubt about owning a sloth, consider supporting a sloth sanctuary instead.
Conclusion
Sloths often end up in dire situations when owned as pets because few people can meet their complex needs in captivity. While owning a sloth may seem like a novel idea, the reality of caring for these unique animals over a lifespan of 20+ years involves major commitments and responsibilities.
If exploring exotic pet ownership, carefully research all implications first, assessing if you have the means and dedication to humanely care for the animal’s needs throughout its entire life.
