Most states have specific laws governing the possession of dangerous wild animals, and the liability of landowners for injuries caused by wild animals on their property. Ferae naturae is a common law doctrine (created by judges in court opinions) meaning "animals of a wild nature or disposition," and traces its origins back to the Roman empire. Under the doctrine of ferae naturae, wild animals are presumed to be owned by no one specifically, but by the people generally.

In many states the rule of law has developed that a landowner cannot be held liable for the acts of indigenous wild animals occurring on his or her property unless the landowner has actually reduced the wild animals to possession or control, or introduced a non-indigenous animal into the area.

In Tennessee, the possession of dangerous wild animals is regulated by the Tennessee Exotic Animal Act. This act requires individuals who own certain exotic animals to register with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and adhere to specific care and security measures. Regarding liability for injuries caused by wild animals, Tennessee follows the common law doctrine of ferae naturae, which holds that landowners are generally not liable for injuries caused by wild animals native to the region unless the landowner has taken possession or control of the animal, or has introduced a non-native species that causes harm. This means that in Tennessee, a landowner's liability for injuries caused by indigenous wild animals on their property is limited, reflecting the principle that wild animals are unowned and a natural risk associated with the land.