Deer donning “PET” markings found roaming in Missouri

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Mo. – A peculiar pet roaming around Jefferson County has caused growing concern among Missouri officials and residents.

It was the spotting of a four-point buck in Jefferson County that prompted recent concerns. The peculiar paint spelling out “pet” and the collar around his neck were not usual. But for those who live in the Madison Oaks neighborhood in Festus, this was nothing new.

“We were sitting up there eating, and here he is walking up in the backyard, and I look at [my wife] going, ‘What’s going on? He’s not scared?,’” said Craig Brooks.

Brooks has lived in the neighborhood for years, but within the last year, he and his neighbors have noticed the domesticated deer making its rounds around houses in the subdivision.

Several sightings later, and state officials were on it with the support of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, who also became aware of sightings in the county.

“Our agent from that county came to investigate,” said Dan Zarlenga with the Missouri Department of Conservation. “By the time he got there the deer was gone and there was no sign of it.”

Zarlenga says domesticated wildlife isn’t too typical in the area.

“It’s actually illegal. It’s against the Missouri Wildlife Code to take in wild native animals as pets,” said Zarlenga.