The sugar glider, a small marsupial, is an increasingly popular pet among exotic animal enthusiasts. Many states have outlawed sugar glider ownership, but sugar gliders are not illegal in Maine. Maine is known for its strong stance on animal cruelty, however, and it's important for sugar glider owners to know the applicable laws.
Licensing
Maine, like many states, used to require a license to own sugar gliders. The law has recently changed, and owners are no longer required to obtain a license before purchasing a sugar glider. Pet stores may sell sugar gliders to the general public.
Breeding
Maine does not explicitly outlaw breeding sugar gliders. However, the state's Department of Fisheries and Inland Wildlife, as well as its animal welfare agencies, strongly discourage breeding animals.
Adoption
Sugar gliders are frequently available at humane societies, animal shelters and animal rescues in Maine. These organizations typically have strict adoption policies that require potential owners to demonstrate knowledge of the housing, medical and training needs of sugar gliders. Owners frequently have to sign contracts agreeing not to breed these animals and promising to return the animals to the facility at which they were adopted if the owner is no longer able to care for it. These contracts are governed by basics contract law, and owners can be sued for violations.
Animal Cruelty
Maine has one of the toughest animal cruelty statutes in the U.S. Unlike many other states, animal abuse is a felony and animal abusers can face prison time. The Maine Animal Coalition points out that animal abusers can also face mandatory counseling and be banned from ever owning pets again. These laws are enforced against owners of sugar gliders and the state encourages citizens to report animal abuse to local animal control departments.
Sugar glider owners should note that failure to provide proper veterinary care constitutes animal abuse. Because few vets are able to treat sugar gliders, owners should find a vet before acquiring one. Excessive breeding, dirty housing conditions and failure to provide proper nutrition can also be prosecuted under the state's animal cruelty laws.
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