Local Kansan is fighting for raccoons to be legalized pets.

Currently, it is illegal to own a pet raccoon in the state of Kansas. However, one man is trying to change that.

“Kaspar and his wife, Holly, are empty nesters,” said Kansas Scripps-Howard Broadcasting (KSHB). “For the last several years, Kaspar has been channeling his paternal instincts when caring for his backyard raccoons.”

Raccoons are very intelligent animals. However, they are still wild and have instincts. Luckily Stephen Kaspar has already thought about this issue.

“Owners must take an educational course on raccoon care, vaccinate their raccoons for rabies and consent to yearly inspections,” said KSHB.

Additionally, owners cannot snatch up raccoons from out in the wild. They will be required to go through a registered breeder.

“To ensure the ethical and responsible ownership of pet raccoons, all raccoons must be purchased through USDA-licensed breeders,” said the Kansas State Legislature.

Many other rules will also follow with this bill. These rules include periodic inspections of one’s home.

“The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks will conduct periodic inspections of pet raccoon owners’ facilities to ensure they are providing proper care, meeting housing standards, and adhering to health and vaccination protocols,” said the Kansas State Legislature.

This proposal arose last year, but still has not been passed or denied.

“Technically, it is in limbo until the legislative adjournment in May,” said KSHB.

All in all, raccoons are very intelligent and adaptable animals. Many states have already legalized raccoon ownership, and Kaspar is willing to do what it takes to push for these animals to be legalized pets.