Idaho ranks as the third-worst state in the country for animal protection laws, according to the Animal Legal Defense Fund. The state lacks important protections such as laws requiring veterinarians or social service workers to report suspected animal cruelty, and prohibiting convicted animal cruelty offenders from owning animals following their conviction.

There is much work to be done in Idaho to protect animals and wildlife, as the state has yet to pass many crucial animal protection laws. Oregon, Massachusetts, and Maine ranked in the top three spots for animal protection laws, highlighting the need for improvement in Idaho.

In addition to the lack of animal protection laws, Idaho also allows for the ownership of exotic and bizarre animals as pets. The state’s laws regarding animal ownership may surprise many, as there are a variety of animals that can legally be owned in Idaho.