How do I obtain a license to own a racoon in NJ?

Contact your local Department of Fish and Game.





If New Jersey is anything like The People's Demokratik Republik of Kalivornia they may not allow you to own a ';Wild Animal';.





Also there is something you should know about Raccoons. They are not the fuzzy cute little creatures that you may believe they are. When they grow up, regardless of how much human contact you may give them they will gain a very nasty temper. Its just the way the animal is made.





I have some friends who had one for a few years and ended up having to get rid of the animal. They have an insatiable curious attitude that cannot be bread out of them nor domesticated away. They are truely a wild animal. They normally will only bond with one person in your household, and respond in an aggressive manner to other folks, in particular visitiors to your home.





You are going to be required to keep the Raccoon in a very heavy cage because they will destroy anything they find fascinating. This includes your furniature. Other pets? Forget it. They will kill them to keep their territory established, regardless of your ';punishments';.





They are highly intelligent and don't forget your discplines, and will do things in retaliation for your penalties.





I would hope you would realize just how big these animals get. When fully grown, you are talking about an animal that weights in excess of 20+ pounds and when standing on their back legs reaches 4+ feet in height.





Last but not least, these animals require a special diet. Its not just going to be cat food, or dog food. These guys are scavengers and eat anything they can get their hands into. This includes your refridgerator. They will eat anything, but not just anything is good for them. And... their diet is what is really at the heart of the matter. You are not doing the animal any service by keeping it as a pet.





Judging from your question, I would say that you may have found a baby raccoon, and intend on keeping it. I would strongly advise you to seek out your local Wild Animal Recovery Center and turn it in to them. By doing this the animal can be returned to their natural habitat and continue to be of service to nature.





Good Luck!