I had a legal, de-scented skunk purchased from a licensed breeder as a pet. Stinks lived to a 'ripe' old age of 14 yrs. Very curious, very near-sighted, scent driven nocturnal pet that loved to dig. She loved attention and got along with our dogs & cats fine. She became a lap skunk in her old age. Before ever spraying (she still had the behavior just not the ability) she would hiss, foot stomp, and puff herself up to be as intimidating as possible. She was a great pet as a kid but I wouldn't get one for my kids.