Prairie dogs can carryfleas with a bacterium known as yersinia pestis:Yersinia is the bacteria that causes sylvatic plague in an animal, including prairie dogs. It is critical to remember that prairie dogs have not been domesticated in the modern world. Furthermore, the ability of monk and ring-neck parrots to survive in a Northern climate is also prohibited. One of the most popular Taste of the Wild formulas is the Ancient Prairie Canine Recipe. Frontiers In Veterinary Science, vol 6, 2019. Discuss This Article. At Prairie Dog Town in Lubbock, Texas, the first Prairie Dog Preserve was established. By providing your mobile number, you agree to receive autodialed, recurring text messages from the HSUS with updates and ways you can help animals. Do the cons greatly outweigh the pros? There are rodents that are active, playful, and strong, and they can make affectionate pets if purchased as young, socialized well, and given plenty of attention. I really am considering getting one - but hun is kinda hard to convince. Fleas have been discovered to spread diseases to humans, and they are known to do so. Prairie dogs have long been regarded as a keystone species for grasslands ecosystems in North America, and they have been regarded as an important migration route for European immigrants to the region. Furs of the black-tail prairie dog are frequently blended with soil. Licensed USDA dealers sell wild prairie dogs to the public, and different dealers will have different methods of collecting the pups. Should You Keep a Pet Mexican Redleg Tarantula? When prairie dogs are hungry, they emerge from their tunnels to consume food. Prairie dogs are generally available in the United States between April and July. According to the Code of Massachusetts Regulations (321 CMR 2.12), this is explicitly prohibited and detailed. Research has shown that "dusting" colonies with insecticides such a deltamethrim (delta dust) or pyraperm not only kills fleas but may also stop the outbreak of this exotic disease in colonies that have already been infected. Pros and cons of owning a prairie dog 60,205 views Oct 13, 2014 Prairie dog .more .more 400 Dislike Share Save Lisa Marie Leonardi 37 subscribers Comments 70 Add a comment. Dogs and cats, for example, are domesticated animals that are fed a mostly processed diet consisting of carbohydrates and processed foods. There are some calls for specific predators, as well as an alarm that sounds when humans are armed. And feeding them is pretty easy and cheap once you get the hang of it. Prairie dogs have the option of being leashed and trained with a harness designed specifically for prairie dogs. Our choice for the #1 Best Overall Taste of the Wild grain-free dog foods is Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food. On the plus side, they are social creatures that bond well with their owners and are relatively low maintenance. As a prairie dog, you can make a lot of noise and still have a good time. A prairie dog is a burrowing rodent native to the western United States. Because prairie dogs also eat grass, ranchers and farmers view them as a threat to their livelihoods. Should You Keep a Coatimundi (Coati) as a Pet? Are there any animals that are legal to own in the entire United States? A prairie dog barks out warnings to the other animals in each burrow in order to keep the burrow secure. Black-tailed prairie dogs prefer grasses, weeds, and flowering plants as food sources, but prairie dogs are omnivores by nature. To provide their social and physical needs, they require a lot of attention and care. A fight occurs when a male invades another males territory in the same way that one male invades anothers territory. Because prairie dogs rely on their burrows for shelter and food storage, they may be fearful of ferrets invading their territory. However, they require a lot of space and can be noisy, so apartment dwellers may not be suitable. A revamped sewer truck is often used to suck the rodents out of their homes; they are then either used as food for endangered wild animals such as eagles and black-footed ferrets (which naturally controlled the population until humans drove the species to near extinction), or are sold to the pet trade. Owning a dog can be expensive. No, it is not legal to own a prairie dog as a pet in Washington State. However, if you can mimic these environmental characteristics, they will thrive in captivity. Missouri, Kansas, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming are the only states that do not allow the possession of prairie dogs. Organized shoots on public lands kill large numbers of prairie dogs in a single day and negatively affect the social structure and health of the colony for years to come. Jessica Alexander, a program associate at WWFs Northern Great Plains office, experienced the worst animal bite shed ever experienced when she was bitten by a prairie dog as a child. Common methods used to remove prairie dog colonies include shooting, poisoning, contest kills and even bulldozing when they face a developers path in the urban areas. If you spend a lot of time with a prairie dog, he or she will become a wonderful pet. My two Dachshund mixes came to me when they were only 45 days old and have grown up to be two well-behaved, beautiful, and very social dogs. Health Benefits 5. Adult Size: 11 to 13 inches long; weighing 1 to 3.5 pounds. Native to the Great Plains region of the United States, black-tailed prairie dogs live in colonies on these grasslands. What are the pros and cons of prairie dogs as pets? The prairie dog is a type of mammal that lives on the Great Plains of the United States. Additionally, it's hard for some folks to give up a grassy looking turf. Check with your state before getting a prairie dog to be sure you're in compliance with local and state laws. Nonvenomous and unprotected reptiles and amphibians, gerbils, hedgehogs, honey possums, sugar gliders, rats, mice, moles, shrews, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, and domestic ferrets are all exempt from the permit requirement. There is a lot of affection between them and they kiss and cuddle, especially when they are together. If the rangeland is managed properly from the start, and not over farmed or over grazed, the prairie dogs are not as likely to take over. Prairie dogs are a type of rodent native to the grasslands of North America. The gender of a prairie dog does not make it a better pet than the gender of the person owning it. The black-tailed prairie dog is one of five different species of wild prairie dogs, but it is the one most often seen in the exoticpet trade. They are known for their chirping calls and for being good swimmers. The cost of a prairie dog varies depending on where you purchase it and its age. Conservationists in Hawaii, California, and Arizona have banned them for various reasons. If you want to keep a prairie dog in one of these states, you wont need any special paperwork; however, many of them allow local governments to set their own rules and regulations. However, if you house your prairie dog outside without a burrow, their systems are ill-equipped to deal with extreme hot or cold temperatures. Keeping prairie dogs as petsis difficult; they require a long-term commitment from a devoted owner who has the expertise to provide an advanced level of specific care. There are no requirements for obtaining a permit to keep these pets as personal pets, including nonvenomous and unprotected reptiles and amphibians, gerbils, hedgehogs, honey possums, sugar gliders, rats, mice, moles, shrews, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunk. Most dog food is tailored to meet the nutritional needs of dogs by life stage: puppy, adult, or senior. Prairie dogs play a vital role in maintaining the prairie ecosystem. Do prairie dogs enjoy being handled? Spaying and neutering both sexes is recommended in order to avoid health problems later in life. A team of researchers from Saint Louis Zoo in Missouri discovered that 25 black-tailed prairie dogs respond to attention in the same way that humans do. Prairie dogs are available in the United States during the months of April and July. Characteristics, Housing, Diet, and Other Information. This is around the time when they breed and then pups are collected. Axolotl (Mexican Walking Fish): Species Profile. Get expert advice to help your pet live its best life. Its well known that prairie dogs are notorious for spreading communicable diseases to other animals, and their populations are on the decline due to human encroachment and climate change. Text STOP to 77879 to opt out, HELP for info. The prairie dog is not a true dog but rather a type of ground squirrel. This prairie dog may become lethargic and unable to consume food normally. Prairie dogs are moderately difficult to care for. Pet prairie dogs are commonly obese, have dental problems, are ill with respiratory diseases, have heart disease, and suffer from parasites. They are also burrowers, so youll need to provide them with a digging box or an area where they can dig. However, potential owners should be aware that owning a prairie dog is not legal in all parts of the country. The systems of these animals are ill-equipped for extreme temperatures if they are kept outside without a burrow. Increased Personal Safety One definite positive to having a pet unfortunately only applies to larger, free roaming pets. Prairie dogs have a lot of personality and make great companions. The dealer should also give you a health certificate and proper USDA paperwork to allow you to legally own the prairie dog they are selling. The prairie dog may appear harmless and cute, but it can easily consume a large amount of food. The prairie dog is an intelligent animal with complex communication capabilities. Prairie dogs are active and playful, and can be trained to do tricks. The decision is both commendable and consistent with the states core wildlife values, as it demonstrates the states commitment to protecting these animals lives. There are no artificial heating requirements for prairie dogs and they should be comfortable at room temperature (around 70 degrees Fahrenheit). Both sexes must be neutered or spayed in order to avoid health problems later in life. Cancer and ringworm are both common causes of morbidity in prairie dogs. Their systems may not be able to cope with extreme temperatures if they are kept outside without a burrow. These animals are important members of the ecosystem, providing food for predators and aerating the soil with their burrows. Although based in Southern California, Celeste consults with clients from all over the world. Because of the fact that these animals require specialized care and their native habitats cannot be replicated in a home setting, they are frequently kept in specialized conditions. Pitbulls range from Arizona to Colorado, as well as New Mexico and Utah (USDAFSW 2008). The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. The prairie dog is also a major food source for predators such as coyotes, hawks, and even black-footed ferrets. The Pros and Cons of Adopting a Dog The Pros of Adopting a Dog. Owning A Pet Raccoon: Legal Practical And Ethical Considerations. Prairie dog towns serve as a breeding ground for a variety of animals such as bison, pronghorns, coyotes, and burrowing owls. Clipping and digging by prairie dogs results in the growth of more shrubby plants and forbs. There are some behaviors (such as grooming each other (allogrooming) that are specific to a species (such as the black-tail prairie dog), but the majority are common. Four Wisconsin residents contracted monkeypox after coming into contact with prairie dogs that they kept as pets. Why are prairie dogs cute? A prairie dog bite is dangerous and can lead to serious infections if not treated. Their short lives allow them to feed on grasses and forbs, as well as clip down taller vegetation to clear sight lines and dig their burrows. While the line's dry recipes put their best foot forward with buffalo or bison as the first ingredient, further down the label, you'll find things like chicken fat, chicken meal, and egg byproducts. Celeste Yarnall operates a holistic consulting practice for people and their pets specializing in feline and canine nutrition. A typical prairie dog cage should be 24 inches wide by 24 inches deep, and it should not contain any wood; it should be made of sturdy wire. All large rodents, including prairie dogs, are considered prohibited in New York. How does a prairie dog smell? . Please take time to read this section in its entirety. Prairie dogs are social animals that live in underground burrows. Prairie dogs are being lost in the American plain states as a result of disease and the loss of open prairie. Animal meat is available for almost any species, including prairie dogs. I have been a happy dog owner for many years now. A shipment of exotic animals has since arrived in the state. Dogs are Loyal Companions. Dogs can offer protection. I've also seen many dog parents who decided to adopt and couldn't be happier. As of 2008, the FDA lifted its restrictions on pet prairie dogs, but in 2016, prairie dogs carrying the plague again became a concern. They are vilified and managed as destructive rodent pests in some locations. Any sign of irregularity in your prairie dog warrants an examination from your exotic animal veterinarian. Humans are not particularly dangerous to prairie dogs, but they may become aggressive if humans come into contact with them in their natural habitat. Allergies 4. In addition to marking territory for males, kissing behavior is a way for them to gain access to the ladies. It is critical for them to have at least two companions in order for their well-being to be successful. Dr. Diehl is a passionate veterinarian pursuing specialty medicine with over 6 years' experience with exotic pets. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring it was peace.". As a result, it is clear why many farmers and ranchers do not like prairie dogs. The pros include their intelligence, social nature, and cleanliness. Unless you have a large enclosure (such as a 10-foot by 10-foot concrete-bordered pit filled three feet deep with dirt to allow burrowing), a large dog-sized cage is unfortunately usually used to house a pet prairie dog indoors. To attract raptorssuch as hawks, owlsand kestrelsyou can provide suitable-sized nesting boxes and artificial perching sites near the colony. Emily Estep is a biologist and fact checker focused on environmental sciences. Because burrows and colonies use the same amount of space as crops, grasslands can be difficult to navigate for livestock, but their benefits include providing food for many animals and creating habitat for up to 150 other species. Owning may be a commitment, but they'll reward you with endless love. Prairie dogs are interesting and entertaining pets that can be easily trained. People who want to get closer to nature and dont want to deal with the mess and upkeep of a traditional pet can make great pets out of prairie dogs. Continue reading 1 person found this review helpful 1.0 Former Employee Why Does My Bird Climb Around Its Cage At Night? There are differences between species, such as the fact that some behaviors (such as grooming each other) are specific to a specific species (such as black-tail prairie dogs), but most behaviors are observed across all. This article will delve into the details of which states legally allow for the owning of prairie dogs as pets, along with tips for potential pet owners. burrowing rodents are becoming more popular as fad pets, according to a veterinarian. Keep in mind, if you choose a housing method where burrowing is prevented, it is not ideal and may lead to anxiety from overexposure to stimulus. Because prairie dogs are social animals, they spend a lot of time in groups in the wild. Close your eyes and jump, for you will fall on the back of a big fish which will carry you to your destination". Baby prairie dogs generally become available in the U.S. between the months of April and July. The town of Fremont met recently to discuss the pros and cons of protecting prairie dogs. There is no denying that prairie dogs can make for adorably unique pets. Family and Shelter for the New Member Cons of Having a Pet 1. They graze and dig in bare patches of ground, where they attract insects that feed on a wide variety of birds. Privacy policy. A prairie dog loves to be handled, which is true. They require a lot of space to run and play and need a specialized diet that can be difficult to come by. These dogs are frequently preyed upon by rodents, and as a result, they are susceptible to a variety of diseases. The population of the Gunnisons Prairie Dog is rapidly declining as a result of shootings, plague cycles, and poisoning. The cost of a cage, bedding, and food for a prairie dog can add up to around $100-$200. Are prairie dogs really that bad? Ultimately, the decision to bring a prairie dog into your home should be made carefully, as these animals require a significant amount of time, space, and commitment from their owners. The prairie dog is a socially active and active animal, which means that it will benefit more from an environment where it can interact with others of its kind while burrowing and running around the perimeter of the burrow as it sees fit. For some, prairie dogs can present challenges as their burrow mounds and colonies use the same space as crops and can make grasslands difficult to navigate for livestock. It can live in captivity for up to eight years. It is generally illegal to own prairie dogs, so owning one may be possible depending on your state, but it may also result in legal problems. The animals are uncommonly important not only as food sources, but also as prairie grasslands. When you have a dog that is picky about their food, finding suitable dog food can be a real challenge. Fleas are the primary carriers of the plague, and bites from them can spread the disease to other animals. Adrienne Kruzer is a veterinary technician with more than 15 years of experience providing healthcare to domestic and exotic animals. They require a lot of attention and a safe, secure environment, so make sure you are prepared to provide them with the best care possible before you make your purchase. However, if you choose to give your dog antler chews, there are ways to minimize the risk: 1. Although prairie dogs are wild animals that can bite, they may also be hosts to insects that can cause diseases to humans. Pets that live in western states are frequently predisposed to common conditions such as obesity, dental disease, respiratory disease, heart disease, and parasites. Contributions to the HSUS are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. As keystone members of the ecosystem, prairie dogs deserve protectionandcoexistence, Examples of habitat monitoring sheets [PDF], Prairie dogs, people and plague: A report collated by the Prairie Dog Coalition, HSUS and the Colorado CDC [PDF], Sylvatic plague vaccine and management of prairie dogs [PDF], Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity, Electric fencing to keep livestock out of 90-wide zones. The rodents are active, playful, and strong, and if properly cared for, they can be wonderful pets if purchased as young puppies, socialized properly, and given a lot of attention. High Prairie is one of the nine grain-free dry dog foods that Taste of the Wild produces using superior-quality ingredients. A Prairie dog is similar to Chicken McNuggets in that it is fast, skilled fighters with powerful teeth and claws. Most pet owners do not want Prairie dogs because they are difficult and aggressive when left alone. As with their other products, High Prairie has a unique formula that combines protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, and fatty acids. Cost 3. Nonetheless, it is critical to avoid extreme temperatures. Wild prairie dogs are sold to the general public or as pets by USDA licensees. This food was formulated specifically for the nutritional requirements of captive prairie dogs. They are a type of ground squirrel and are native to the Great Plains of North America. They can be kept in captivity for up to 12 years at a time. Read our. In order to provide the best level of care possible, they require a long-term commitment from an owner who is dedicated to the mission. Sometimes the damage that animals actually do is much less than believed and sometimes what some see as "damage" is actually a benefit that goes unappreciated. A prairie dog is a wild animal that is happy to be a pet as well as a wild animal. They are a type of ground squirrel and are native to the Great Plains of North America. Can I legally own a coyote in Florida? Prairie dog colonies have the potential to host up to 150 different species of wildlife. Prairie dogs deserve the same level of enclosure that other types of animals do. NoDespite their name, prairie dogs are actually rodents and are more closely related to squirrels, groundhogs, chipmunks, and woodchucks. Even if they are related, a prairie dogs gender does not make him or her the best pet. Pet prairie dogs, with proper training, can learn to walk on a leash and even join in when needed. They are gentle and friendly to humans, just like other rodents, despite their advanced age. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. Prairie dogs can also be difficult to potty train, and they have a tendency to dig and chew through furniture. If there is a bite on the body, it should be treated as soon as possible by a medical professional. Simulating their natural habitat is what dictates their complex needs. They can be noisy and destructive, and they require a lot of space. A prairie dog in the wild typically has three to four years of life left. Prairie dogs help to aerate and fertilize soil, which in turn allows for a greater variety of plants to thrive. Water buffalo is an excellent choice for this product. 2023 The Humane Society of the United States Privacy policy and terms. 45 related questions found. Physical contact, such as pushing and biting, was also common in aggressive prairie dog-fret interactions. Every spring and summer, thousands of prairie dog pups are vacuumed from their burrows. Prairie dogs are social creatures and live in family groups. To schedule an exotic vet appointment, you must go to your local veterinarian. In the case of kissing, the person is from the same group. To have a successful prairie dog, he or she will need a large cage (at least 2 x 2x4). Teeth that constantly grow and require warning when they are eating or chewing will no longer be an issue. 3, 2019, pp. Because prairie dogs live in the natural environment, a prairie dogs habitat cannot be replicated in captivity. If you are bitten by either of these venomous pests, you may experience serious reactions. There are few things you wouldn't do for your furry friends. In the wild, these animals rely heavily on prickly pear cactus to survive. They are very active and playful, and make great pets for people who have the time and space to care for them. Before getting a prairie dog, people should research their state and local laws to make sure they are allowed to own one. Are prairie dogs nocturnal or . Do the cons greatly outweigh the pros? Pros: 1. If you do not get your female prairie dog spayed, her estrous cycle (referred to as "rut") will cause her to become aggressive and it will drastically (but temporarily) alter her behavior. Emily has been a proofreader and editor at a variety of online media outlets over the past decade and has reviewed more than 200 articles for The Spruce Pets for factual accuracy. You will also need to provide the prairie dog with regular veterinary care to keep it healthy. Alternatively, you can visit an exotic pet show or buy a prairie dog at an exotic pet store. Prairie dogs are diurnal, meaning that they are active during the daytime hours and sleep at night. These plants require only a few drops of water per day and a few small amounts of food. They are friendly and social creatures that enjoy human interaction and make for great cuddle buddies. Prairie dogs are a type of burrowing rodents that are native to North America. PROS. Prairie dogs are generally not considered to be dangerous animals. Prairie dogs burrows attract pests, but their yards are also damaged. This can make them more entertaining to watch, and can even help to relieve boredom. Both sexes need to be either spayed or neutered to avoid health issues later in life. Any importation, transportation, or release of live wild animals into the state is prohibited by the law (17-306). A study of 25 black-tail prairie dogs at Saint Louis Zoo in Missouri revealed that they enjoy receiving attention as well as receiving attention from humans. Prairie dogs are fast fighters with powerful teeth and claws and are known for their quick, sharp claws. Dogs are loyal and affectionate. Furthermore, these animals can be dangerous to humans as well as other domesticated animals, as well as a nuisance to the surrounding environment. If you have a bite wound, it should be examined/treated immediately by a medical professional. However, it involves a critical aspect in the long-term welfare of keeping pet prairie dogs that we feel requires careful thought and thorough understanding, so an educated owner can thoroughly grasp the "big picture" before making what could be expensive and time-wasting habitat choices for . Frontiers Media SA, doi:10.3389/fvets.2019.00075. However, there are some drawbacks to owning a prairie dog. Theyre very content in your home once theyve been integrated into it and bonded with you. It is not their desire to return to the wild. Prairie dogs can also have a hostile kiss, in which one or both of the participants jerk or jump away from the kiss. Generally, a pet prairie dog can cost anywhere between $50-$250. In the last article of this series we will discuss prairie dogs as a keystone species, and the pros and cons of restoration ecology on the prairie. Many grazing animals, including domestic cattle, prefer to graze within prairie dog towns. There are populations of this species found at higher elevations (called montane populations) and lower elevations (called prairie populations), according to the US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). Terms and conditions. They are also relatively easy to care for and can live up to 10 years. Prairie dogs, on the other hand, contribute to the health of the land and attract predators, both of which are beneficial to farmers. Always supervise your dog with an antler chew. Furthermore, this increases the likelihood of more biodiverse and healthy habitats despite the fact that it may appear to some that are not in our interests. Class I animals cannot be kept as pets in Florida. Wild prairie dogs are available for sale as pets or as a commodity through licensed USDA dealers. Prairie dogs are a type of rodent that is native to North America. Prairie dogs are known to flee from conflicts in the wild. The legal status of prairie dogs varies from state to state. A prairie dog owner can train their pet prairie dog to behave on and off leash, and even teach it to come when called. Mainly in the case of dogs, pets can bring a degree of safety to your life. Wiley, doi:10.1111/jsap.12974, Wildlife Partners Unite to Protect Iconic Species from Deadly Plague. Though animals don't have exactly the same needs as humans, you still want to make sure the pets under your roof receive the .