The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm | July 29, 2026 | Virginia Law
Cats and dogs are two of the most popular pets in the country, but those pets are just a little too predictable for some Virginia residents. Having a rare or exotic pet is something that many people enjoy, although you need to make sure you know the rules in Virginia before you go out and purchase an exotic pet.
You could mistakenly end up with a pet that is illegal to keep. Here are five animals that are illegal to keep as pets in Virginia.
#1: Tigers and Other Big Cats
Tigers are beautiful and majestic creatures, and some people get excited by the thought of keeping a tiger as a pet. While tigers could be owned by private citizens at one time, individuals are no longer allowed to keep tigers as pets.
In fact, the Big Cat Public Safety Act prohibits the possession and ownership of many types of big cats by private individuals, such as:
- Tigers
- Lions
- Leopards
- Cheetahs
- Jaguars
While tigers are amazing animals, you should leave ownership of these animals to the zoos and other entities that are equipped to handle and care for them.
#2: Raccoons
Raccoons are seen by many as cute, furry little creatures that might make great pets. These animals are curious and entertaining, but they are not meant to be domesticated. Raccoons are native wildlife in Virginia, and private individuals generally cannot capture or possess them as pets without legal authorization.
Additionally, raccoons are common carriers of rabies and other diseases, making them a potential risk to people and other animals.
#3: Bears
Bears are awesome and powerful animals that would seem really cool to keep as a pet. However, it is illegal to own a bear in Virginia without the necessary permits and approvals. Bears are wild animals, and they can also be dangerous due to their size and strength.
#4: Wolves
While a wolf may have a biological connection to modern dogs, wolves are not domesticated. These wild animals are native species of Virginia, and their possession is heavily regulated under state law.
Although permits may be available in limited circumstances, wolves are generally not permitted as household pets. Hybrid wolf canines may also be subject to specific enclosure and regulatory requirements.
#5: Foxes
Foxes may look like they would make fun and affectionate pets, but they are wild animals and are not domesticated. In Virginia, native foxes are considered wildlife, and private individuals generally cannot capture or keep them as pets.
Like many wild animals, foxes can carry diseases and have complex behavioral and environmental needs that make them unsuitable for life as household pets.
Exotic Pets That Are Legal in Virginia
If you are interested in owning an exotic pet, Virginia law permits the ownership of several unique species. Some animals that are generally legal to keep as pets in Virginia include:
- Sugar gliders
- Hedgehogs
- Chinchillas
- Bearded dragons
- Geckos
- Axolotls
- Non-venomous snakes (under 6 feet)
While these animals are generally legal to own in Virginia, some species may still be subject to state, federal, or local regulations. Before acquiring an exotic pet, verify that you comply with all applicable laws and determine whether any permits or other requirements apply.
Although certain wild or dangerous animals cannot be kept as pets, there are many exotic species that can be owned responsibly. Before bringing any pet home, carefully evaluate its housing, dietary, veterinary, and environmental needs to ensure you can provide appropriate long-term care.
Who Is Responsible for Injuries Caused by Exotic Pets?
Just like owners may be responsible for injuries caused by dog bites, exotic pet owners can also be held liable for any injuries caused by an exotic pet. If a pet owner’s negligence led to someone else’s injuries, they can face legal liability for the victim’s medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
If you have been hurt by someone else’s pet, make sure you follow these steps:
- Get immediate medical treatment for your injuries
- Obtain contact information for the pet’s owner as well as any witnesses
- Seek counsel from an experienced personal injury lawyer
Acting quickly after an exotic pet attack can strengthen your claim and improve your chances of recovering compensation.
Contact the Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm To Schedule a Free Consultation With a Manassas Personal Injury Attorney
Virginia has laws that restrict the ownership of certain wild and exotic animals for public safety and animal welfare. If you have questions about an injury caused by an exotic pet or another dangerous animal, an experienced personal injury attorney can explain your legal options.
For more information, please contact our experienced personal injury attorneys at The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free consultation today. We have two convenient locations in Manassas and Fairfax, Virginia.
The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm Manassas
9208 Lee Ave, First Floor, Manassas, VA, 20110
(571) 229-1800
Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Manassas
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 38.7523907,-77.5566859
The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm Fairfax
4000 Legato Rd #1100, Fairfax, VA, 22033
(571) 200-5424
Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Fairfax
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 38.8657713,-77.3652474