How to Legally Have a Camel in New York State
Every time I driver to my parent's house, I feel like a kid again. Not because I'm literally their son, but because I get the joy of driving past "camel house".
Growing up, it was almost mandatory to have landmark houses. "Halloween house" gave out full-sized candy bars on October 31st, "scary house" had a big barking dog in their yard, and "camel house" has, well, a camel.
Camels in the Hudson Valley
I almost lost control of my car the first time I saw the magical creature from the corner of my eye. Now, every time I travel to my parents house in Ulster County from my home in Newburgh, I insist on taking the one back road that literally has a roadside attraction.
There Are Camels Living in Ulster County, NY
It took my wife nearly a year to believe me that there was a camel living up the street, and it's hard to blame her. Certain exotic animals, especially large ones, sound almost impossible to keep as pets. Plus, how do camels deal with Hudson Valley winters? As it turns out, it's easier to keep a camel as a pet than you might think.
Are Camels Really Legal to Keep in New York State?
Camels, along with llamas, alpacas, and other more specific breeds like vicunas and guanacos are classified as camelids, and are legal to both import and keep as livestock in the state of New York... as long as you complete one important step.
Read More: Is Camel Milk Legal in New York State?
While there is no permit required to import a camel, hopeful owners still need to prove the animal is in good health. New York State requires a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection for all imported camelids.
This may seem obvious, but the one caveat involves New York City. While there are many exotic animals permitted in the greater New York State area, New York City regulations are much stricter. Check out more exotic pets below.
10 Exotic Animals You Can Legally Have as Pets In New York
Gallery Credit: Credit - Polly McAdams
10 Exotic Animals That Are Legal To Own In New Jersey
Gallery Credit: Nicole Murray