Russian silver foxes have been domesticated and can become the next pet for your family. A breeding program to tame the silver fox started in Russia 50 years ago and has produced a fox that is friendly to humans and has doglike characteristics. They will become attached to a human owner, and even wag their tails when happy. Domesticated silver foxes are not aggressive, but they can be a handful and are not for the unprepared. They also do not come cheap. Silver foxes must be imported from Russia or Scandinavia and can cost about $7,000.
Instructions
1. Verify that your state allows ownership of Russian domesticated silver foxes. Consult the exotic pet laws to see whether there is an ownership ban or you need a license. If it is allowed, order a silver fox directly from an importer, such as Sibfox. Email the company and request a contract.
2. Get shots for the fox. Several vaccinations are required for the silver fox, including those for rabies, plague and salmonella. Check with your importer to see which shots have been administered before exportation and ask for records. Confer with your veterinarian about any remaining vaccinations. Follow up with the vet periodically to ensure the long-term health of the animal.
3. Arrange the fox's living area. Foxes can live indoors or outdoors, though it's best to house them in a large wire animal cage with a bottom outside your home. Foxes will dig under the cage if it doesn't have a metal bottom. Clean the house regularly if you keep the fox indoors. They mark territory with urine and your house can develop a skunky odor. Buy a dog bed with a blanket and the fox will snuggle into it like a cat. Litter-box training is possible with silver foxes and you can walk them on a leash as you would a dog.
4. Buy high-quality canned dog food for the fox, and feed it as you would a medium-sized dog. Remove the bones and excess fat from any meat or fish you feed it. Supplement the diet with carrots and cabbage, but do not give them tomatoes or potatoes. Look at the fox's coat: A shiny coat means a healthy and well-nourished fox.
5. Exercise the fox daily. Walking the fox should be a routine like walking the dog. Silver foxes are energetic and playful, and proper exercise and rest is required. Foxes live in family groups, so they can become attached to dogs, cats and humans. Involve the fox in routines like you would with other family pets. They are not dangerous to children, but like any animal they will bite if in danger or threatened.
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