Endangered Species Conservation Federation Legislation & Policy Issues The LIOC-ESCF Model Regulations This document represents over a year of group efforts to research and develop a useful model that can be presented to state legislatures, Game and Fish offices or if slightly modified, even county governments, as a blueprint and guideline to allow private participation in captive husbandry of wild felines. This document addresses the needs of the animal as well as the safety of the public. State Law Legal Summary A synopsis of state laws regulating ownership of native and exotic felines. Understanding USDA Licensing Many states and individual counties require a USDA license (usually a Class C Exhibitor's license) as a prerequisite for gaining a permit to possess wild felines. The following explanation may clarify this requirement to those considering applying for a USDA licenses to possess wild felines for commercial purposes. USDA Proposed Draft Policy on Training and Handling of Potentially Dangerous Animals USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service published their Draft Policy on Training and Handling of Potentially Dangerous Animals in the Federal Register on February 18, 2000 (Volume 65 Number 34) and requested comments from interested parties. The LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation submitted written comments, and those follow this policy summary. Big Cat Guidelines The LIOC-ESCF's special recommendation pertaining to the keeping of the large species of exotic cats. Risk Assessment Survey Results The results of the LIOC-ESCF's 1999 survey on the risks associated with keeping and handling exotic cats.