The Large Carnivore Act (Act 274 of 2000) is an act to regulate the ownership, possession, and care of certain large carnivores; to prohibit the ownership and possession of certain large carnivores; to impose fees; to prescribe the powers and duties of certain governmental entities and officials and of certain veterinarians; and to prescribe penalties and provide remedies.
(f) “Large carnivore” means either of the following:
(i) Any of the following cats of the Felidae family, whether wild or captive bred, including a hybrid cross
with such a cat:
(A) A lion.
(B) A leopard, including, but not limited to, a snow leopard or clouded leopard.
(C) A jaguar.
(D) A tiger.
(E) A cougar.
(F) A panther.
(G) A cheetah.
(ii) A bear of a species that is native or nonnative to this state, whether wild or captive bred.
http://www.michigan.gov/documents/mdard/mcl-act-274-of-2000_425455_7.pdf
The wolf/dog hybrid act (passed summer of 2000) prohibits ownership of wolf/dog hybrids in Michigan. There is an exception provided for people who legally owned such animals prior to the passing of the act, if they adhere to “grandfather clause” requirements of the act. If you have questions regarding the wolf/dog hybrid act (act 246 of 2000), you may contact Mr. Al Rodriquez of the Michigan Department of Agriculture, Animal Industry Division at 517-373-1077 or Ms. Eileen Liska of Liska Associates at 248-887-2184.
Prior to importing any wild animal into the State of Michigan, a Veterinarians Certificate of Health from the state of origin is required. This certificate should be obtained and kept on file by anyone importing a wild animal into Michigan.
http://www.michigan.gov/som/0,4669,7-192–317707–rss,00.html
If exhibiting, or using exotic cats for commercial purposes, a United State Department of Agriculture (USDA) permit may be required. The contact person for this permit in Michigan is Dr. Curt Hammel (517-647-2124).
Jim Janson
DNR, Wildlife Division
Permit Specialist
517-373-9329
jansonj @ michigan.gov
1/24/14
Disclaimer: Please check all local, city, county, township, homeowners’ ordinances in your area first before acquiring any hybrid or exotic animals.