Pot Bellied Pig's Family is Fighting City Hall

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| Print | By Jo Singer | September 3, 2009 2:10 PM

And this little piggy went, "wheeee wheeee wheeee" all the way home".

While we may not commonly consider the pig to be a household pet, there is something magical about them, as far as I am concerned! Not only are they highly intelligent, they are very affectionate, and have a great sense of humor. One of my friends shared her swanky New York City apartment with one, taking her out for daily walks, much to the entertainment and delight of her neighbors.

While I have never met Lisa Pia, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, it seems that we are on the same page when it comes to this amazing species. The Pias were enchanted by one, and decided to add her to their family. This said . . .

"According to a recent article I found in the Boston Herald online, Mrs. Pia is presently engaged in a battle with the city of Fayetteville, fighting a ban against Loopey, their one-year-Potbellied pig, as their precious family pet. Their reason? Loopey is a special friend and is considered by the Pias to be their autistic eight-year old son Anthony's "therapist". Since he doesn't like dogs, they were thrilled when he fell in love with Loopey, making an immediate connection with her.

The family was devastated when the city inspectors demanded that Loopey be returned to the ranch from where she was purchased, since pigs are banned from city limits.
Loopey, an 80 pound Pot Bellied Pig had her own private "digs" in their back yard, but she kept a constant nightly vigil with Anthony, sleeping on a pillow in his bedroom.
After receiving a letter from the city, Mrs. Pia said, ""I was, 'Oh, my God, my son. My son has cried himself to sleep every night wanting her back home."

Mr. and Mrs. Pia are entreating the Fayetteville City Council to reconsider their case as a special one, asking them to "rethink" the ban so that Pot Bellied pigs can be classified as household pets and service animals for the disabled.

Keith Bates, a Councilman, fortunately, is on their side. He is urging the council members to vote to amend the ordinance, suggesting that the city permit one potbellied pig per household, providing that their weight does not exceed 125 pounds. However, it appears that this pending amendment may not pass so easily. Two council members, Val Applewhite and Wesley Meredith both voted against the city taking the first step toward amending its ordinance at an August Council session.

I fervently hope that Mr. Bates will be able to persuade the council to fully understand the depth of Anthony's relationship with Loopey, but also how essential she is to him. After all she is not only his beloved pet but also a bridge for him in order to more readily learn to communicate.

To become more acquainted with this very enchanting animal, watch the video uploaded to YouTube by leannthepotbellypig, who named her Vietnamese potbellied pig for the famous singer, Miss LeAnn Rimes.

What are your thoughts about potbellied pigs considered as pets and service animals for the disabled? Leave a comment and share your opinions.

RELATED TOPICS: Blogs (262) , Law (25) , Pet Ownership (18)

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jmuhj September 3, 2009 4:02 PM

How nice -- someone else who doesn't like dogs!!! Hope this family gets to keep their pig.

Vicki September 3, 2009 4:50 PM

I think if it were me and my son loved this pig so much, I would sell my house and move some place where it weren't such a big deal. I hope they get to keep this pig.

Amy September 4, 2009 5:45 AM

I think that if an animal creates a bond with any person who is incapacitated should be treated as a special case by the authorities. I vote for the pig and its owners.

Allison Wade October 3, 2009 7:53 PM

All of my best wishes in getting this foolish ordinance rethought! There are so many advantages of pig ownership--low shedding, low allergen, low-destruction (unlike chewy puppies), highly intelligent, easily trainable, no barking.

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