In Florida, wolfdogs are considered exotic animals and are regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
To own a wolfdog in Florida, you must obtain a Class III exotic animal permit, which requires a $50 fee and a background check.
You'll also need to provide a suitable enclosure that meets the commission's minimum standards, including a secure, escape-proof enclosure with a minimum size of 2,000 square feet.
The enclosure must also be equipped with adequate shelter, ventilation, and fencing to prevent escape or injury.
Florida Laws and Regulations
In Florida, wolf hybrids are considered captive wildlife, not pets, and are subject to specific regulations.
Private individuals are generally not permitted to own a wolf hybrid, regardless of the domestic breed used in breeding.
If you're caught owning a wolf hybrid without a license, you could face civil and criminal penalties.
To own a wolf hybrid, you need to acquire a specific license from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which is only given to people or organizations with a legitimate reason to own one.
If you're considering owning a wolf hybrid, be aware that failing to follow regulations can result in extensive damages to the victim if the animal bites someone.
Captive wildlife regulations apply to zoos or animal preserves, and owning a wolf hybrid without proper licensure can lead to criminal charges.
On a similar theme: What's a Wolfdog
Captive Wildlife Regulations
In Florida, captive wildlife regulations apply to wolf hybrids, which are considered captive wildlife and not pets. They require a specific license to keep, which is only given to people or organizations with a legitimate reason to own a wolf hybrid.
To obtain this license, you'll need to comply with a set of rules and regulations set out by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. This includes details on how the animal will be kept restrained and the sort of facility needed to house the animal legally.
If you're caught owning a wolf hybrid without the proper license, you could face criminal charges. Owning a wolf hybrid is a serious responsibility, and it's essential to understand the regulations before deciding to bring one home.
Failing to follow these regulations can result in civil and criminal penalties, including extensive damages if a wolf hybrid bites someone.
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Florida Dog Bite Laws
Florida is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites, meaning the owner is responsible for expenses regardless of the dog's breed. This is spelled out in FLSA 767.04.
Unless your dog was intentionally provoked, you are responsible for all medical costs resulting from a dog bite. In Florida, the laws assume you own a legal dog.
If you keep a breed of dog as a pet that isn't legal to own in Florida, you will likely be liable for the bite, even if the dog was provoked. This includes owning a wolf hybrid.
You can be held liable for punitive damages and administrative levies if you own an unconventional dog breed like a wolf hybrid, making it a high-risk situation.
A different take: New Wolfdog Breed
Liability and Insurance
Owning a wolf hybrid in Florida can be a complex issue, and liability is a major concern.
You can't rely on homeowner's insurance to cover wolf-dog hybrid attacks, as they are considered captive wildlife by Florida statute.
If your wolf hybrid bites someone, you may have trouble filing a claim on the at-fault party's homeowner's insurance policy.
You can, however, sue the party directly for damages, which is a good thing to know before bringing one of these animals into your home.
In Florida, the owner of any dog or wild animal can be held strictly liable for the harm that animal causes, regardless of precautions taken.
This means you could be held responsible for compensating someone injured by your wolf hybrid, even if you took every safety precaution.
Ownership and Safety
In Florida, owning a wolf hybrid is heavily regulated and not recommended for private individuals. Private individuals are generally not permitted to keep a wolf hybrid as a pet, even if it's bred with a domestic breed.
If you're still interested in owning a wolf hybrid, you'll need to comply with the rules and regulations set out by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which includes details on how the animal will be kept restrained and the facility needed to house it legally.
Failing to follow these regulations can result in civil and criminal penalties, making owning a wolf hybrid a significant legal risk.
Some states, including Florida, do not allow the ownership of any "wild" animal, which wolf hybrids qualify as on a federal level.
If you're considering owning a wolf hybrid, be aware that there are many wolf hybrids in shelters waiting for a home, and buying from a breeder only adds to the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
In what states are wolf dogs legal?
Wolf dogs are permitted in 24 states, including Alabama, Arizona, and Colorado, among others. Check our full list for the most up-to-date information on wolf dog laws by state.
What percentage of wolves are legal in Florida?
In Florida, wolfdogs with 75% or more wolf content are considered legal, while those with less wolf content may be subject to different regulations.
Are there dog restrictions in Florida?
No, Florida does not have breed-specific dog restrictions. However, public housing authorities and local governments may still have their own pet policies
Sources
- https://www.gillettelaw.com/are-wolf-hybrids-legal-in-florida/
- https://usalaw.com/blog/are-wolf-hybrids-legal-in-florida/
- https://romanaustin.com/blog/are-wolf-hybrids-legal-in-florida/
- https://issuu.com/lowcountrydog/docs/lowcountry_dog_magazine-_april_2021/s/11996883
- https://www.ambassadorjourney.com/wolf-dogs/
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