Exotic animal ban takes effect

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - Tim Harrison has been involved in hundreds of exotic animal rescues. That's why he supports the new exotic animal ban.

"We're going to be able to protect humans and animals in the state of Ohio," comments Harrison.

Owners have 60 days, until November 5th, to register their exotic animals. But, the full impact of the law won't be felt until January 2014 when owners will have to adhere to strict new standards.

"As long as you get insurance, you get yourself a veterinarian that's going to sign for you, you have to get them either tattooed or I think they're going to do computer chips," explains Harrison.

Harrison says he will likely be apart of the Governor's task force to help with the transition.

"We're trying to make it so it can be easy for everybody and they're giving you the opportunity to do the right thing," comments Harrison.

But some exotic animal owners believe it's wrong.

"There has to be some exceptions made and the way I feel it is, Ohio is not making any exceptions and that they're wanting to drive all these animals out," says Michael Stapleton.

Dr. Daniel Brauer sees all kinds of exotic animals at the Dayton South Veterinary Clinic.

"You just wouldn't believe how many people in the Dayton area have these exotics," explains Dr. Brauer.

He says he sees some people who follow the current rules but, most of the time, that's not the case.

"A lot of the people I work on their pets, the exotics, they'll tell you that after about a year, they wish they never would've gotten into this mess. They don't realize that these little cubs, bear cubs or lion cubs grow up and then when they do, we usually get a phone call because something tragic happened or they're looking for a home for this animal," says Dr. Brauer.

Under the new law, the first time an exotic animal roams off the owner's property, it's a misdemeanor. If it happens again, it's a felony.

The new ban includes; large cats, bears, elephants, certain monkeys, alligators and crocodiles.  Restricted snakes include; anacondas and pythons longer than 12 feet vipers and certain venomous snakes.

For the complete list or for more on registration and permits for exotic animal owners, go here.