Governor Pawlenty Signs Bill Restricting Certain Dangerous Exotic Animals as Pets

On Saturday, May 29, Governor Pawlenty signed an important measure into law to address this growing threat to public safety. The new law, authored by Senator Don Betzold (D-Fridley) and Representative Steve Strachan (R-Farmington), puts restrictions on ownership of certain dangerous animals as pets in Minnesota.

The new law recognizes that possession of certain species poses a serious threat to the health, safety and welfare of our communities. “Recent well-publicized incidents, in Minnesota and nationwide, involving dangerous exotic animals highlight the need for the new law,” stated Strachan. Minnesota was one of a few states where it was legal to keep these animals in your home, backyard or garage as pets. There are many cities that currently have ordinances addressing dangerous animals but there was no uniformity and no statewide law – until now.

The animals regulated under the new law are non-human primates, members of the felidae family (e.g., tigers, lions, servals, cougars – not cats recognized as domestic) and bears. “Wild and exotic animals are not good companions and should not be kept as pets,” said Betzold. “They belong in their natural habitat – not in our homes. These animals eventually revert back to their wild nature.”

Under the new law, current pet owners as well as USDA licensed businesses will be allowed to keep their regulated animals so long as they meet USDA standards for care and housing. They also will be required to register these animals with their local animal control authority. USDA licensed businesses that deal in exotic animals can continue to operate. But, most importantly, no new exotic pet owners will be allowed in Minnesota.

Some of the organizations that supported the legislation were the Minnesota Department of Health, Minnesota Board of Animal Health, Minnesota Sheriff’s Association, Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association, Minnesota Animal Control Association, Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association, The Wildcat Sanctuary, and the Minnesota Zoo.