Are Wolf Hybrids Legal In Florida?
When you think of a dog, you likely think of the cute domesticated animal that many people keep as a companion. However, not all breeds are created equal. Some dog owners prefer the strength and look of a dog that’s been mixed with a wild animal.
Many dog owners think wolf hybrids are the best of both worlds — the look of a wolf with the behavior of man’s best friend. If you are interested in owning one for yourself or wondering if someone else’s pet is legal, find out who is allowed to have a wolf hybrid in Florida and what to expect from these animals.
The Issue With Treating Wolf Hybrids as Pets
Many people love the look of a wolf hybrid. However, you may not realize that the behavior of this breed doesn’t always match its regal look. According to the International Wolf Center, the genetic makeup of these hybrids is hard to predict.
Those hybrids that retain more of their “dog genes” may be able to be domesticated, while those that retain most of their wolf makeup may not have that same ability. Because no breeder can reliably determine how much “wolf content” a hybrid will have, this breed’s behavior patterns are very unpredictable.
Many of them behave like a wolf in the wild, becoming aggressive, obstinate, and highly territorial. This, coupled with the fact that some veterinarians won’t work with them and the rabies vaccination is not approved for hybrids, results in a high potential for serious injury and danger to both the animal and humans.
What Does Florida Law Say About Wolf Hybrids?
In Florida, wolf hybrids are considered captive wildlife and are generally not allowed to be kept as pets.
Individuals and organizations who want to keep a wolf hybrid as a pet must comply with the rules and regulations promulgated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. These rules address caging and permit requirements, among other things.
Anyone who fails to meet these requirements cannot legally own a wolf hybrid in the state of Florida.
What Happens If A Wolf Hybrid Attacks Someone?
In Florida, owners can be held responsible for compensating an individual after a dog bite, provided that person wasn’t provoking the animal. This means that they could end up with civil penalties, criminal charges, and a court order to pay damages if their wolf hybrid attacks another person.
Getting Help After A Dog Bite Injury
If you’ve been bitten by a wolf hybrid or any other species, seek medical attention immediately. Then, consider getting help from a personal injury attorney. In these situations, it’s often the animal owner’s word against yours. An attorney can help you establish that the owner was negligent, especially if they obtain evidence that the animal is illegally owned.
They can also help you properly value your case so you know how much compensation to seek for pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical bills. With an attorney on your side, you’ll be much more confident in navigating the legal process as you do what’s necessary to hold the animal’s owner responsible.
Contact the Jacksonville Personal Injury Law Firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra personal injury law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and its surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167