No—people should not keep raccoons as pets. The CDC advises, “Don’t keep wild animals as pets.” Raccoons remain wild animals even when they seem tame or are found near homes, and close contact can expose people and pets to injury and disease.
If you encounter a raccoon, keep your distance and do not take it in or try to raise it. If it is badly injured or very sick, contact a wildlife rehabilitator or your state wildlife office. If someone may have been exposed through a bite or scratch, seek prompt medical or public-health guidance.
Why a raccoon that seems tame is still wildlife
A raccoon may become accustomed to people, particularly if people feed it, but that does not make it domesticated or establish that it is safe to keep. The research reviewed does not establish a safe private-ownership protocol or an exemption based on hand-rearing or captive birth.
Oregon’s wildlife agency warns that raccoons fed by people can lose their fear of humans and may become aggressive. The CDC also cautions that wild animals can carry germs even when they appear healthy. Avoid feeding, touching, or trying to handle a raccoon.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →#1 Best Overall
- RACCOON PROOF GARBAGE CAN LOCK - TRASH STAYS IN, ANIMALS STAY OUT: Keeps your trash secure in any garbage can with a hinged lid. Raccoons, squirrels, opossums and critters cannot open it. Also deters occasional black bear visits and protects from spillage from wind.
- DETER RACCOONS AND CRITTERS: Patent Pending two-strap system with non-elastic straps, 2,000 lb breaking strength, and stainless steel hardware. Animals cannot chew, stretch or break through. Need black bear protection? See our Four Strap Ultimate version.
- UNIVERSAL FIT: A trash can lock that works on a garbage can/cart with a hinged lid, 32, 45, 48, 50, 64, 65, 95 or 96 gallon.
- TWO YEAR ANIMAL-RESISTANT WARRANTY (Limited). If the Trash Lock or part thereof is damaged during that the first two years due to an animal interaction, excluding a grizzly bear, Primacy Solutions will replace the failed part.
- ANIMAL PROOF EXISTING TRASH CAN, instead of buying a new one. DOES NOT INCLUDE TRASH CAN/CART
Health risks and what to do after contact
The CDC lists raccoons among animals commonly found with rabies in the United States. It also identifies raccoon roundworm, or Baylisascaris, as a disease wildlife can spread. North Carolina’s wildlife agency says raccoon roundworm can infect people and domestic pets; the agency advises that promptly removing raccoon feces reduces exposure risk.
If a bite, scratch, or other possible rabies exposure occurs, seek prompt medical or public-health guidance. After contact with wildlife or its feces, wash your hands. Do not touch wildlife or attempt to clean up a situation that may expose you; ask local authorities or a qualified professional for advice.
Rank #2
- Heavy-Duty Animal-Proof Protection: Durable double metal claws deliver a firm, secure grip to lock trash cans tight. Effectively blocks bears, raccoons, squirrels and other critters from rummaging through garbage.
- Tight-Sealing Spill-Proof Design: The lock’s snug closure prevents trash spillage even in strong winds or when animals try to pry lids open, keeping your outdoor space neat and clean.
- Adjustable Fit for Most Bins: Straps adjust from 30 to 51 inches, fitting a wide range of trash can sizes. Easy to install and customize for a perfect, stable hold on various bin lids.
- Multi-Scene Versatile Use: Not just for trash cans—ideal for securing luggage and outdoor equipment too. A handy tool for both home outdoor areas and adventure trips.
- Tool-Free Quick Installation: No screws or fasteners required. Set up the adjustable strap lock in minutes without extra effort, saving time and hassle.
Is it legal to own a raccoon?
There is no location-independent answer. Laws and permission requirements depend on the applicable jurisdiction and what you intend to do. Texas Department of State Health Services notes that wildlife may be protected by federal and state laws and that permission from the proper authorities may be required.
Before possessing, transporting, or attempting to rehabilitate a raccoon, check with your state wildlife agency and local authorities. Do not rely on a general online list or assume that an animal is permissible to keep because it was born in captivity or seems tame.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Rank #3
- 1. HEAVY-DUTY DOUBLE-CLAW LOCK WITH ZERO-STRETCH NYLON STRAP – BUILT TO LAST Replace flimsy plastic clips that snap or warp under high heat. Our rust-proof, non-slip metal double-claw hooks stand up to heat, rain, snow, and freezing temperatures — gripping the bin rim securely without losing strength. The zero-stretch nylon strap stays tight and holds its shape long-term, unlike elastic straps that weaken and loosen after just a few months of use.
- 2. PROVEN PROTECTION: RACCOONS, OPOSSUMS, STRAY DOGS & MORE Make sure the strap is adjusted to its tightest position. When locked down, the lid is firmly secured to the trash can — effectively preventing raccoons, opossums, wild boars, stray dogs, and other animals from prying it open. For larger animals like bears, proper installation is key: use the slide buckle to shorten the strap as much as possible, hook both claws onto a solid rim edge, and make sure it's pulled tight. Used correctly, this strap prevents the lid from being forced open.
- 3. COMPATIBLE WITH 32, 45 & 64 GALLON BINS – MEASURE FIRST Fits most standard outdoor trash cans — residential carts, round, square, and commercial bins. Strap adjusts 20.47 to 35.4 inches. Zero-stretch requires precise fit. Check two things before ordering: 1) Lid handle to rim edge — must be 35.4" or less. 2) Bin must have a rim/lip for the hook to grip. Without it, the strap won't secure. For 96-gallon bins: measure carefully — not all are compatible. Rim-to-handle must be 35.4" or less. See product images for measurement guide.
- 4. WINDPROOF & ALL-WEATHER RELIABILITY Tired of wind blowing your trash can lid open and scattering garbage across your yard? This strap locks the lid tight to the rim — wind cannot flip it open. The same heavy-duty nylon that resists sun, rain, snow, and freezing temperatures also keeps the strap flexible and strong, year after year, without cracking or stiffening.
- 5. TOOL-FREE INSTALLATION – DIAL IT IN. LOCK IT DOWN. No tools, no drilling — just adjust the buckle. Before hooking, use the slide buckle to shorten the strap a bit more than you think you need. Then hook the double claws onto the lid handle and rim edge. If it feels too loose, take it off, shorten it one more notch, and hook again. The right length is: short enough that you have to pull firmly to hook it on — that's when it's tightest. Once it's on, the lid is locked. The strap has zero stretch — so whatever length you set, that's it. No animal can pull it longer or stretch it loose. Lock it once. It stays locked.
What to do if you find a raccoon
| Situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| Apparently healthy raccoon; no contact | Keep your distance. Do not feed, touch, or take it in. |
| Badly injured or very sick raccoon | Contact a wildlife rehabilitator or your state wildlife office. Do not handle or attempt to raise it. |
| Bite, scratch, or possible rabies exposure | Seek prompt medical or public-health guidance. |
| Raccoon feces or possible roundworm exposure | Avoid contact, wash your hands after any contact, and consult local authorities or a qualified professional about safe cleanup. |
| Question about possession or transport | Check with your state wildlife agency and local authorities before acting. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a raccoon be domesticated if it is raised by people?
No. Becoming accustomed to people is not the same as domestication and does not establish that a raccoon is safe or suitable to keep.
Can I keep a raccoon if it was born in captivity?
Do not assume so. Captive birth does not establish that keeping the animal is safe or legally permitted. Check with your state wildlife agency and local authorities.
Rank #4
- Animal & Weather Resistant : A practical trash can lock strap that keeps your outdoor bin sealed—helps deter bears, raccoons, squirrels, pets, and gusty wind from opening or tipping the lid. Ideal for home, curbside, camping, and other outdoor use. A simple trash can lock solution for raccoon proof garbage cans and bear proof trash can setups."
- Bite-Resistant & Durable : Made with all-metal hardware and high-strength nylon, these trash can lock straps for animals can withstand chewing, scratching, and clawing from bears, raccoons, squirrels, dogs, and other pets. Designed for all-weather outdoor environments.
- Heavy-Duty X-Box Stitching : Each strap connection is reinforced with X-box cross-stitching, firmly attaching the nylon to metal hooks and locking buckle. This greatly improves tensile strength and tear resistance, making your garbage can lock more durable and long-lasting.
- Easy Installation : Drill a hole with a bit equal to or slightly larger than 8 mm (5/16") and secure the strap using the included screws. The strap length can be adjusted to the optimal position, and once set, it will self-lock without the risk of slipping.
- Universal Fit (28–100 Gallon) : Adjustable from 12.6–16.5 inches, fits most 28–100 gallon trash, recycle, and compost bins. No tools needed—just hook, tighten, and lock for a quick install. A versatile, lockable trash can solution for curbside and backyard use.
What should I do if a raccoon bites or scratches me?
Seek prompt medical or public-health guidance about the possible exposure. Do not handle the raccoon.
Who should I call about an injured raccoon?
Contact a wildlife rehabilitator or your state wildlife office, especially if the animal is badly injured or very sick. Do not try to care for it yourself.
Are raccoons legal to keep as pets?
The answer depends on the applicable state and local rules. Check with your state wildlife agency and local authorities before possessing or transporting one.
The Bottom Line
Do not keep a raccoon as a pet. Keep your distance, avoid feeding or handling it, and contact wildlife professionals for a badly injured or very sick animal. For possible rabies exposure, seek prompt medical or public-health guidance.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
