How many of your neighbors own a fox as a pet? How many of your neighbors knew you could keep a fox as a pet without totaling your furniture?
I’ve recently discovered the Tame Silver Fox, a color morph of the Red Fox. While the new coloring is natural, the domestication is an experiment from Russia and the Soviet Union fifty years in the making. Because of this “house-breaking”, these canines have taken on more dog-like characteristics, such as a more vocal bark (not as common in the fox world), ears that go down when moods change, and even tails that wag when happy.
Unfortunately for the potential house-pet, the demise of the U.S.S.R. put a serious cut in funding for food and salaries. In 1996, the tame population was roughly five hundred. But by 1998, the number had died down to a mere one hundred.
So, chances are if you own a Silver Fox, they won’t be tamed. But let’s say you get a hold of one of these critters. First of all (and possibly most obvious), you’ll need to keep all of your valuables tucked away if the fox will be in the house at any time. The fox is naturally curious and loves to explore. It’s more likely to be active at night, so make sure there is no way for it to escape. Foxes are the most widespread terrestrial animal on the planet, so they’ve adapted to everything from blazing temperatures to snowy climates. Even so, if you want to keep one as a pet, you will need a dry box to keep them warm.
As for vaccinations, they will need all of the typical canine shots. However, if vaccinating for Parvovirus or Distemper ONLY use a “killed” or “modified live” vaccine.
Diet-wise, raw meat is PROHIBITED. Cooked meat, as well as fruits and vegetables are the best choices.
