To the city of Denver,

We, the undersigned, call upon the Denver Animal Ordinances & Legislation to reconsider the current laws that allow humans to murder skunks [1] and prohibit the keeping of domesticated skunks as pets [2]. We believe that these laws are not only unjust but also contribute to the unnecessary harm and misunderstanding of these unique and fascinating animals.

1. Inconsistency in laws:

   Frank Herbert wrote, “He who can destroy a thing, controls a thing.” If you can destroy a skunk, you already have ownership over it, because you have control over its fate. Making it illegal to own a skunk as a pet is trivial compared to making it legal to murder a skunk. If humans have the right to take the life of a skunk, then they already have the right to decide its fate. So, what if we decide that the skunk should live a happy life as a pet? 

   
   It’s inconsistent; it should already be legal by this rationale. But the government has explicitly decided to criminalize the caring for and ownership of skunks as pets. Where is the logical argument, and why have they criminalized it? We don’t see a practical reason for this to be a crime, and we aim to change the law - and save the skunks!

2. Skunks as pets: Domesticated skunks, when properly raised and cared for, can make wonderful and affectionate companions. They are intelligent, curious, and can be trained to use a litter box, walk on a leash, and even perform tricks [3]. Their natural behavior is more similar to that of a curious cat or playful dog, rather than the aggressive or harmful image often portrayed in media.
3. Environmental impact: Skunks are natural predators of rodents and insects, which can help control pest populations [4]. By keeping skunks as pets, we encourage a healthy ecosystem in our communities.
4. De-scenting process: The primary concern regarding skunks is their ability to release a pungent odor. However, domesticated skunks are typically de-scented at a young age, a process that removes their scent glands (similar to neutering a dog or cat), making it impossible for them to produce the notorious odor [5]. This procedure poses no harm to the skunk and allows them to live odor-free with their human families.
5. Education and awareness: Legalizing skunks as pets would provide an opportunity to increase public awareness and education about these misunderstood creatures. By allowing people to keep skunks as pets, we can dispel myths and misinformation, and promote understanding and compassion towards them.

In conclusion, we urge the Denver Animal Ordinances & Legislation to review and amend the existing laws, allowing responsible and well-informed citizens to keep domesticated skunks as pets. By doing so, we can foster a better understanding of these remarkable animals, promote responsible pet ownership, and support a more compassionate and inclusive society.

Sincerely,

Legalize Skunks
Denver, CO
legalizeskunks@gmail.com
Reed Fox
‪(720) 772-7502‬
www.legalizeskunks.com

Bibliography

[1] Colorado Parks and Wildlife. (n.d.). Colorado Parks and Wildlife. https://cpw.state.co.us/learn/Pages/LivingwithWildlifeComfort2.aspx

[2] Nuisance Wildlife Laws in Colorado. (2022, August 1). Colorado Parks & Wildlife. https://cpw.state.co.us/Documents/WildlifeSpecies/LivingWithWildlife/NuisanceWildlife.pdf

[3] Florida Skunk Rescue - New Skunk owner information. (n.d.). Florida Skunk Rescue. https://floridaskunkrescue.com/new-skunk-owner-information

[4] Living with wildlife: Skunks. (n.d.). Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/living/species-facts/skunks#:~:text=Skunks%20are%20beneficial%20to%20farmers,to%20keep%20them%20as%20pets

[5] Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. (2022, August 17). Madison Wildlife Control: What Is A Descented Skunk? https://www.skedaddlewildlife.com/location/madison/blog/what-is-a-descented-skunk/#:~:text=Descented%20Skunks&text=Pets%20are%20usually%20kept%20in,different%20than%20neutering%20a%20pet