Getting USDA license

[Akuma223]

Hello all, So its been my dream for as long as I can remember to get a pet red fox. For as long as I've known how to use a computer I've done the research over and over again in preparation for that wonderful day in the future. Now I am 18 and that day is still very far off but my aspirations haven't changed a bit. I have had the wonderful opportunity this year to personally interact with foxes, lemurs, and bobcats and know without a shadow of doubt that I want to have the privilege of working with these animals and educating the public about them! Now, know that I will not be getting any creature this serious for years until I have a home and property I will live on for years to come. I know damn well how massive a responsibility this kind of thing is and will only do it when I can do the best for the animals that I can.
I know I want to do this beyond just so I can have these animals because I LOVE teaching people about animals! Whenever I am on vacation I catch lizards and tidal pool creatures and let people see and touch them and tell them about them and why they are important and beautiful. While in Aruba I caught an adult iguana and told people what they eat, how hard they can bite (to deter people like me!), and how wonderful they are. I often catch snakes and let people touch them and look at them to help combat fears and misconceptions about them.

So, I wish to know what the process of getting a USDA class c license is like as well as

-If you've done educational shows before, how did you get started?
-I'd love to know everyones personal experience and opinions on this topic is
-What difficulties and challenges have you faced?
-how do you exhibit your animals, shows only or a facility people visit?

Also know that if I were to do this It would include educating the public about native species (reptiles, mammals, etc.) as well as proper husbandry, facts about exotic animals and the pros and cons of keeping them as captives, and the importance of these animals and their natural environments.

Also if this is incoherent I apologize!

[Zoo Nanny]

I believe it's Fish and Wildlife that you would need to apply for a permit with. I could be wrong I'm not up on NY laws. Check with them on the process and requirements.
Each county and town may have their own requirements as well so check first.
I've worked with fox and have done educational programs on fox, wolf, coyote, wild dog and numerous other animals. I loved doing it, sharing information to people especially children. I worked as a zookeeper and we did educational programs daily. Start your preparation now through education whether it be through college, wildlife rehab training, volunteering at a wildlife rehab center or zoo keeping. Some states are very strict about background information on individuals. Good luck

[Jim Smith]

Akuma223,

From what you've said, it sounds like you have a life's calling and you should continue to plan for it. Don't stop with a license, but rather continue with your education. Maybe get a degree in wildlife management or become a zoo keeper. In the meantime, consider working for a local exotic animal rescue service or one of the organizations that rehab wild animals. You can find a list in your area here. NYS Rehabbers (http://www.nyswrc.org/rehabbers.html)

Good luck and don't give up your dream.

[Akuma223]

Now keep in mind It won't be a full time job! It will be something on the side, I'm not going to have a large amount of animals that require a lot of space and someone around 24/7. I am going to college for fish and wildlife technician or something similar. There is a wildlife rehabber right in my town (thanks for the list!), how should I go about asking her if I can volunteer or get trained or whatever?

[Zoo Nanny]

This will give you some of the information that you need.
Fish, Wildlife & Plant Permits - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation (http://www.dec.ny.gov/96308.html#)
IWRC Certification (http://www.cwrexam.org/certification/)
National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association (NWRA) (http://www.nwrawildlife.org/continuing-education-upcoming)
Check to see if NY has standards for keeping wildlife. As an example of this I found out that Massachusetts has a minimum sized enclosure requirement for each species of animal.

[Akuma223]

Thank you zoo nanny, the link were very helpful. I have been taking notes as I go along.

[Zoo Nanny]

I forgot to add to also check the county and town zoning bylaws to be sure it's allowed and if there is land requirements. Best of luck.