Is It Legal to Own a Pet Sloth in Pennsylvania?

March 3, 2025 | Pennsylvania Law

Is It Legal to Own a Pet Sloth in Pennsylvania

Sloths have quickly increased in popularity in recent years. More zoos are beginning to highlight sloth exhibits, and these lovable, furry creatures are even being portrayed in cartoons and movies. Most people believe that these lethargic animals are harmless, and some even believe they would make good pets.

While it may be possible to own a pet sloth in Pennsylvania, remember that they are wild animals. Owning one will require some special permits, and special consideration should be given to their care and well-being. If you are interested in having a sloth as a pet, keep reading below to learn everything you need to know.

What Is a Sloth & Is It Considered an Exotic Animal?

There are two main types of sloths – the two-toed sloth and the three-toed sloth. Sloths are native to Central and South America, and these slow-moving creatures spend most of their time in the tree canopies above the rainforests. They move so slowly that they only cover a distance of about 40 yards per day.

Sloths are obviously not domesticated animals like cats or dogs. However, many people wonder whether a sloth is classified as an exotic animal. Pennsylvania law includes a definition of “exotic wildlife,” and that definition includes many specific types of animals, such as:

  • Bears
  • Coyotes
  • Lions
  • Tigers
  • Leopards

Sloths are not specifically mentioned by name in this statute. However, sloths may very well fit the definition of an exotic animal because they are wild animals. The Pennsylvania Game Commission has authority over wild game, so you should check with them prior to getting a sloth as a pet.

How Can I Get a Permit For an Exotic Animal in Pennsylvania?

If you wish to keep an exotic animal in Pennsylvania, you will need to obtain the proper permit to do so. The Pennsylvania Game Commission will need to verify that you have the ability to properly care for the animal. Additionally, they will need to ensure that the facilities will adequately protect the public from the animal.

If a permit is granted, it is unlawful to release the animal back into the wild. The animal’s owner also must refrain from behavior that may be considered reckless or that places another person in danger. Failure to abide by these rules may result in a summary offense and can result in fines.

Liability For Damages Caused By Exotic Pets

Exotic pets are still wild animals, and they can sometimes bite, attack, or otherwise harm humans. If an exotic pet injures someone, the owner could be held liable for economic and non-economic damages. This could include:

  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • PTSD
  • Anxiety
  • Loss of quality of life
  • Permanent scarring

Pennsylvania law makes you liable for any injuries caused by your pet. This includes exotic pets as well. The specific amount of damages and compensation owed in a particular case will depend on the specific injuries and facts of the case.

What Should I Do If I Am Injured By Someone’s Pet?

If you are injured by someone else’s pet, you should seek immediate medical attention. Whether you suffer a dog bite, sloth bite, or exotic animal attack, you should have your wounds examined and treated right away.

Take photos of your injuries and document as many details about the situation as you can remember. You should also report the bite or attack to your local animal control agency.

Go ahead and start gathering evidence that may help prove your damages, such as medical records, medical bills, or other receipts. Finally, reach out to a Carlisle personal injury lawyer for help. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal waters of an exotic pet bite and help you get the compensation you are owed.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, please contact Marzzacco Niven & Associates at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today:

Harrisburg Law Office
945 East Park Drive, Suite 103 Harrisburg, PA 17111
(717) 912-6901

York Law Office
2550 Kingston Road, Suite 210A York, PA 17401
(717) 995-8998

Wyomissing Law Office
833 N. Park Road, Suite 103, Room A Wyomissing, PA 19610
(717) 388-2325

Chambersburg Law Office
79 St. Paul Drive, Suite 1 Chambersburg, PA 17201
(717) 388-2378

Carlisle Law Office
354 Alexander Springs Road Carlisle, PA 17015
(717) 995-8732

Carbondale Law Office
30 Lincoln Avenue, Suite 101 Carbondale, PA 18407
(717) 995-8810

Lancaster Law Office
2173 Embassy Drive, Ste 123, Lancaster PA 17603
(717) 616-2954

Lebanon Law Office
937 Willow Street, Suite D Lebanon, PA 17042-1140
(717) 995-8963