HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-04-03 PACKET 08.C.REQUEST OF CITY COUNCIL ACTION COUNCIL AGENDA
MEETING ITEM # � �
DATE 4/3/13 , �
PREPARED BY: Community Development Jennifer Levitt
ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT STAFF AUTHOR
************************************************
COUNCIL ACTION REQUEST
Consider a request by Tessa Anderson to allow a miniature pot-bellied pig at 8230 Ivywood
Avenue South for the sole benefit of a family member with a disability. The City is not required
to amend any city ordinance to allow this accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA).
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Allow a miniature pot-bellied pig as a therapy animal with a request that the Andersons provide
a copy of the animal's training documentation to the City once the animal has competed its
training.
BUDGET IMPLICATION $N/A $N/A N/A
BUDGETED AMOUNT ACTUAL AMOUNT FUNDING SOURCE
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
� MEMO/LETTER: Memo from John McCool dated 3/28/13
Memo from Corrine Heine, City Attorney, dated 3/19/13
❑ RESOLUTION:
❑ ORDINANCE:
❑ ENGINEERING RECOMMENDATION:
❑ LEGAL RECOMMENDATION:
� OTHER: Reference materials on therapy animals
ADMINISTRATOR'S COMMENTS
�`_``�
�-�' °'�_ � �
� City Administrator Date
**************�*********************************
COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN: ❑ APPROVED ❑ DENIED ❑ OTHER
CITY OF COTTAGE GROVE
� MINNESOTA
TO: Mayor and Members of the City Council
Ryan Schroeder, City Administrator
FROM: John McCool, Senior Planner
DATE: March 28, 2013
RE: Tessa Anderson's Request — Miniature Potbelly Pig Certification/Registration
Introduction
Tessa Anderson, 8230 Ivywood Avenue South, has requested that the City Council consider an
exception from city ordinances to allow a miniature potbelly pig in their home as a therapy ani-
mal. Ms. Anderson stated that she wants to purchase a miniature potbelly pig as a therapeutic
animal for the benefit of a family member that has a disability and allergic reactions to common
household pets. Training this animal will begin once the animal is one year of age.
This matter was referred to the Community Development Department to research and respond
to the City Council and Tessa Anderson.
Ordinance Requirements
Initially, City staff literally interpreted the City's Zoning Ordinance and Animal Control Ordinance
to require a minimum of five acres of land in order to have a pig (farm animal) on their property.
A miniature potbelly pig is considered farm animal as defined by city ordinances.
The City's Animal Control Ordinance defines a"service dog" as "Any guide dog, signal dog or
other animal individually trained or being trained to do work or perForm tasks for the benefit of an
individual with a disability, including, but not limited to, guiding individuals with impaired vision,
alerting individuals with impaired hearing to intruders or sounds, providing minimum protection
or rescue work, pulling a wheelchair, or fetching dropped items." The Animal Control Ordinance
defines "domestic animal" as "Any animal commonly accepted as a domesticated household
pet. Unless otherwise defined, such animals shall include dogs, cats, caged birds, gerbils,
hamsters, guinea pigs, domesticated rabbits, fish, nonpoisonous, non-venomous and non-
constricting reptiles or amphibians, and other similar animals." This definition does not include
pigs.
Discussion
Reference Materials
Tessa Anderson has provided a variety of reference materials pertaining to "service animals"
and the registration process for "therapy pets." The website www.petpartners.org, as suggested
by Ms. Anderson, provided several reference materials concerning therapy animals. A few of
these articles titled "Service Animal 8asics," "Service Animal Frequently Asked Questions," and
Honorable Mayor, City Council, and Ryan Schroeder
Miniature Potbelly Pig — Exception to City Ordinances
March 28, 2013
Page 2 of 3
"The Pot Belly Pig as a Therapy AnimaP' are attached. A copy of other articles Ms. Anderson
submitted is also attached.
Most resource materials referencing "service animals" generally apply to police dogs or dogs
trained for search and rescue purposes. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifically
defines a service animal as a"guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to pro-
vide assistance to an individual with a disability." In March 2011, the ADA definition of service
animal changed as a result of a revision made by the Department of Justice. Under the revised
regulation, a"service animal" means any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform
tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric,
intellectual, or other mental disability. Other species of animals, whether wild or domestic,
trained or untrained, are not service animals. The work or tasks perFormed by a service animal
must be directly related to the individual's disability.
The National Autism Association, Autism Science Foundation, American Society of Autism, and
the Autism Society of Minnesota websites were checked to obtain information concerning ser-
vice animals. No specific information was found about certifying or registering service animals.
These websites acknowledged that animal therapy may include horseback riding or swimming
with dolphins. These forms of therapy generally provide physical and emotional benefits, im-
proving coordination and motor development, creating a sense of well-being, and increasing
self-confidence.
Therapy Animal
A"therapy animal" is not legally defined by federal law. Some states have laws defining therapy
animals; Minnesota is not one of them. A therapy animal provides people with contact to ani-
mals, but is not limited to working with people who have disabilities. It is usually the personal pet
of their handlers (who may be therapists, physicians, rehabilitation professionals) and works
with their handler to provide services to others, such as in nursing homes and hospitals. Ther-
apy animals are usually not service animals and are not protected under the ADA and cannot
enter restaurants, airplanes, or other public places where animals are not usually allowed. It is
important that therapy animals meet specific criteria for health and behavior to ensure the safety
of the people they meet and their own safety.
Person with Disabilities
At the March 20 City Council meeting, Tessa Anderson submitted various documents relevant to
a family member's disabilities. Based on the information provided by medical professionals, City
staff found this information to be sufficient in documenting that a person in their family has a
disability.
The City Attorney also reviewed city ordinances and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
with respect to the enforcement of the City's zoning and animal control regulations in this situa-
tion. Based on the finding that the individual has a disability and ADA's basic requirement that
public entities need to provide reasonable accommodations, it is City staff's opinion that the City
Council can administratively consider an accommodation of its zoning and animal control ordin-
ances when requested by a qualified individual with a disability. A copy of Corrine Heine's
memorandum dated March 19, 2013 is attached.
Honorable Mayor, City Council, and Ryan Schroeder
Miniature Potbelly Pig — Exception to City Ordinances
March 28, 2013
Page 3 of 3
Action Requested
City Council is requested to consider Tessa Anderson's request to keep a miniature pot-bellied
pig in her home for the sole benefit of a family member that has a disability as the individual's
allergies prevent the individual from using a therapy animal that would be allowed under the
City's regulations. Ms. Anderson's documentation about her family member's disability and
housing a miniature pot-bellied pig that will be trained to provide certain services has been de-
termined to be consistent with ADA regulations. The City is not required to amend any city
ordinance to allow this accommodation under the ADA.
For purposes of documenting the City's consideration allowing a miniature pot-bellied pig in the
Anderson's home, it is respectfully requested that the Andersons provide a copy of the animal's
training documentation to the City once the animal has competed its training.
Corriue A. Heine
470 U.S. Baiilc Plaza
200 South SiYth Street
Muuieapolis MN 55402
0
CHARTERED
(612) 337-9217 telephone
(612)337-9310fax
http:!/w�v�v.kemiedy-graven.com
cheine@keunedy-graven.com
MEMORANDUM
TO: Ryan Schroeder, Jennifer Levitt, John McCool
FROM: Cort�ine A. Heine, City Attorney
DATE: April 1, 2013
RE: Americans With Disabilities Act and Zoning
INTRODUCTION
A resident has aslced the City to provide information on the resident's ability to keep a potbellied
pig in her home. The resident wants to purchase the pig as a therapy animal or emotional
support animal for a family member who has a disability. The family member also suffers from
allergies and is not able to live with a fur-bearing animal, such as a dog. The resident's home is
located in an R-3 zoning district on a lot approximately .25 acres in size.
Under the City's zoning ordinance, farm animals are allowed in residential zoning districts, only
on parcels of five acres or more, and subject to the requirements in section 11-3-7. The code
de�nes "farm animals" as "horses, cows, sheep, bees, pigs, chicicens, ducks and other commonly
known animals normally associated with farms, but excluding customaiy household pets." The
term "household pets" is defined as "animals that are customarily lcept for personal use or
enjoyment within the home. `Household pets' shall include, but not be limited to, domestic
dogs, domestic cats, domestic tropical birds, rabbits or fish." Section 5-4-1 of the city code has a
more extensive list of animals under its de�nition of "domestic animal," but that list does not
include pigs.
You have asked about the City's obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (the
"ADA"), with respect to the enforcement of the City's zoning regulations in this situation. This
memo provides basic inforination about the requirements of the ADA and its application in a
zoning context.
42o41s�2 cAx cTlss-as
Memo re ADA Accommodations
April 1, 2013
Page 2
BRIEF SUMMARY
Courts have held that zoning is a"public service, program or activity" that is subject to the
requuements of the ADA. Cities are required to modify their zoning requirements by tnalcing
reasorlable accoinmodations to qualified individuals with disabilities, as those terms are defined
under the ADA.
The ADA has a specific definition of a"seivice animal," which includes only dogs and miniature
horses. The City's regulations regarding animals allowed in residential zoning districts does not
discriminate against the use dogs as service animals, because dogs are allowed. If the City
deterinines that a disabled individual needs a potbellied pig, rather than a dog, to assist the
individual in the same manner as service animal, or as therapy animal, the City has the ability,
consistent with the ADA, to allow an accommodation for that individual only. The City would not
be required to allow farm animals in residential districts generally. It is not clear that a coui�t could
require the City to malce an accommodation for a potbellied pig.
Whether an individual has a disability within the meaning of the act, and whether a requested
accommodation of the disability is reasonable, are both fact-specific inquiries. At this time, there is
not sufficient information to determine whether the individual is eligible for an accommodation or
whether the requested accommodation is reasonable. The City staff will need to obtain additional
information regarding the disability and the asset•ted need for a pig before a final decision can be
made.
DISCUSSION
The ADA is comprised of three different titles, each of which prohibits discrimination against
persons with disabilities. Title I prohibits discrimination in employment, Title II prohibits
discrimination by pubic entities in the provision of public services, and Title III prohibits
discrimination by private entities with respect to public accommodations. This situation is
governed by Title II of the ADA.
The City's zoning orclinances may not have a discriminatory effect on disabled
persons.
Title II of the ADA provides that "no qualified individual with a disability shall, by reason of
such disability, be excluded fi�om participation in or be denied the bene�ts of the services,
progyams, or� activities of a public entity, or be subjected to discrimination by any such entity."
42 U.S.C. § 12132; 28 C.F.R. § 35.130. The law prohibits not only deliberate discrimination but
also prohibits requirements that have a discriminatory effect on a disabled individual's ability to
take advantage of a city's services, programs or activities. See Heather K. v. City of Mallard,
946 F.Supp. 1373 (N.D. Iowa 1996) (city could be liable under ADA for open burning regulation
if ordinance had discriminatory effect on disabled persoils) (citing Crowder v. I�ita awa, 81 F.3d
1480 (9 Cir. 1996) (Hawaii's quarantine requirement on persons entering state with a dog was
discriminatory because it burdened visually-impaired persons in a manner different and greater
than it burdened others).
420415v2 CAH CT155-25
Memo re ADA Accommodations
April l, 2013
Page 3
Several coui�ts have considered whether the ADA applies to a city's zoning decisions. Although
soine courts have disagreed, the general consensus is that zoning is a"service, program or
activity to which the ADA applies. See Innovative Health Svstems, Inc. v. City of White Plains
117 F.3d 37 (2" Cir. 1997), overruled on other �rounds bX Zervos v. Verizon N.Y., 252 F.3d
163 (2" Cir. 2001) (ADA and Rehabilitation Act apply to city's zoning decisions because such
decisions are normal function of governmental agency); Bav Area Addiction Research and
Treatment, Inc. v. Citv of Antioch, 179 F.3d 725 (9 Cir. 1999) (the ADA and the Rehabilitation
Act apply to zoning because zoning is a"program or activity" within meaning of those acts);
Kennedv v. Citv of Svracuse 102 F.Supp.2d 100 (N.D. New Yorlc 2000) (same); Discoverv
House, Inc. v. Consolidated Citv of Indianapolis, 43 F.Supp.2d 997 (N.D. Indiana 1999)
(allegedly discriminatory decision by municipal zoning appeals board on application to open
drug rehabilitation center was "service" fot• purposes of ADA). But see U.S. v. Citv of Charlotte,
904 F.Supp. 482 (W.D. N.C. 1995) (zoning decision does not constitute a service, ptogram, or
activity of a municipality within meaning of ADA); Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation Inc v
Borou�h of Essex Fells, 876 F.Supp. 641 (DN.J. 1995) (same).
The City's zoning requirements constitute a prograrn, service, or activity to which the ADA
applies. The next question is whether the resident can meet the elements of a Title II claim under
the ADA.
The City is required to make reasonable accommodations to disabled persons.
The regulations that implement the ADA require public entities to provide accommodations to
persons with disabilities. The applicable regulation provides:
A public entity shall malce reasonable modifications in policies, practices, or procedures
when modifications are necessary to avoid discrimination on the basis of disability,
unless the public entity can demonstrate that making the modifications would
fundamentally alter the nature of the service, program, or activity.
28 C.F.R. § 35.130(b)(7).
There is also a speci�c regulation regarding service animals. Section 35.136 provides that,
generally, a pubic entity must inodify its policies, practices, or procedures to perinit the use of a
service animal by an individual with a disability. A"service animal" is defined at 28 C.F.R. §
35.104 to include:
' Courts have also held that the Fair Housing Amendments Act (FI-IAA) applies to nnmicipal zoning ordinances that
affect housing opportunities for the disaUled and to discriminatoiy actions taken by cities pursuant to zoning ordinances.
See, e.g., Smith & Lee Assoc., I�ic. v. Citv of Ta,�, 13 F.3d 920 (6th Cir. 1993) (court of appeals remanded for
determination whether requirement that city atnend neut�•al zoning law to accommodate placement of conununity
residential care facility was reasonable).
420415v2 CAH CTI55-25
Memo re ADA Accommodations
April 1, 2013
Page 4
...any dog that is individually trained to do worlc or perform tasks for the benefit of an
individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or
other mental disability. Other species of animals, whether wild o�� domestic, ty�ained or
zcntr�crzned, are not ser•vice anin�als for� the purposes of this definition. ...
(ernphasis added).
The "service animal" regulations do not prevent the City from modifying its
requii•ements to allow a potbellied pig as a house pet.
Although the "service animal" definition is restricted to dogs (and, in some cases, miniature
horses), that definition does not prevent the City from allowing a potbellied pig as an
accommodation in this situation. Title II covers a broad at•ray of public seivices, including
access to public facilities and public transpoi�tation, and section 35.136 is focused on those public
services rather than the public program of zoning i•egulations.
Section 35.136 is a specific regulation regarding service animals, but it does not diininish or
reduce the general requirement in section 35.130(b)(7) that public entities must make reasonable
modifications as necessary to avoid discrimination on the basis of disability. Under section
35.136, the City clearly is not required to allow a potbellied pig to accompany a disabled person
into City buildings. Nevertheless, a court might determine that, under section 35.130(b)(7), the
City still must accommodate a pig as house pet under its zoning ordinances, provided that: (a)
the accommodation is reasonable under the circumstances and necessary to accominodate a
disability; and (b) the accommodation does not require the City to fundamentally alter the nature
of its zoning regulations. It is also possible that a court could determine that no accornmodation
is requued, if the court views section 35.136 as cont�olling. This issue is not cleat, and I was
unable to locate any court decisions that have addressed this narrow issue.
As noted above, some courts have also found that a City's zoning regulations implicate the Fair
Housing Act Amendments (FHAA). Cases decided under the FIIAA have not restricted housing
accomtnodations to "service animals," but have also included accommodations for therapy
animals. If the City's pi•incipal concern is not whether a disabled individual may have a
potbellied pig as a house pet but rather, whether the City would be "opening the door" to other
farm anitnals if it accommodates a disabled individual, there is no need to further discuss FIIA.A
t•equirements. However, if the City talces the position that it is not required to provide an
accommodation to any animals other than "service animals," then it would be prudent to further
investigate the FIIAA requirements and cases.
2 The regulations at � 35136 also require public entities to make modifications to allow use of a miniature hot•se by
a disabled iiidividual, and provide assessment factors to consider in determining whethei• to allow use of a ininiature
horse. Those provisions ace not relevant here.
420415v2 CAH CT155-25
Memo re ADA Accoinmodations
April 1, 2013
Page 5
The City is not required to fundamentally alter its zoning ordinances, and an
accommodation under the ADA will not open the door to farm animals in
residential areas.
There are two points to emphasize here. First, accominodations must only be made for
"qualified individuals with a disability." Second, the City is only required to make an
accommodation as necessary to eliminate the discriminatory effect on the disabled individual; it
is not required to fundamentally alter the nature of its seivices, programs or activities. The City
can malce a zoning accommodation under the ADA administratively and only for the affected
disabled person. It is not required to amend its zoning ordinances to allow anyone to have a
potbellied pig as a house pet.
Accoinmodations are only required for disabled persons. The determination of whether an
individual is disabled must be made on an individualized, case-by-case basis. The tertn "disability"
means that an individual has "a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more
of the major life activities of such individual; a record of such an itnpairment; or being regarded as
having such an iinpau•inent." 42 U.S.C. § 12102(2); 28 C.F.R. § 35.104. The requu•einent that an
individual be disabled significantly limits the potential for other residents to request similar
accommodations.
Second, the City is only required to malce reasonable accommodations, not ones that fundamentally
alter or change a program or policy. The reasonableness of a proposed modification is a fact
question, requiring a case-by-case inquicy. See, e.�., Staron v. McDonald's Corp., 51 F.3d 353, 356
(2" Cir. 1995) (the reasonable modification test considers the effectiveness of the modification in
light of the nature of the disability in question and the cost to the organization that would iinplement
it). For example, in this case, the requested modification is needed not only because the individual
is disabled and requires a seivice or therapy animal but also because the individual's allergies
prevent the individual fi�om using a service or therapy animal that would be allowed under the
City's regulations. The City would not need to accommodate a disabled individual who could
tolerate a dog or other therapy pet that is allowed under the City's ordinances.
The City can adminish�atively handle an accommodation of its zoning ordinances.
The City is not required to amend its zoning ordinances to allow an accorrunodation under the
ADA. The requirements of the ADA supersede local ordinances, and the City staff can
administratively address ADA accommodations. Accommodations are only required when
requested by a qualified individual with a disability.
The City staff should therefore t�equit�e a written request that identifies what accommodation is
being requested and why the accommodation is needed. The written request should also be
accompanied by a letter from a physician, physical therapist or other qualified professional, attesting
that the individual is disabled.
Please contact me with any additional questions.
- end-
420415v2 CAH CT155-25
Service Animal Basics - Pet Partners
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Srvc Dog Trainer Directory Use the "Facts You Should Know About Service Doas" brochure to learn more about service dogs
and to educate businesses in your area abouf the access rights of people with disabilities and fheir
Service Animal Basics service dogs. Please feel free to download, print, and copy the brochure in its entirety to share with
oihers.
Denied Access, Now What?
Scroll down the page to find answers to the following questions.
Getting a Service Animal What Is a Servlce Dog(Animal?
How can I make my dog a service animal?
Minimum Standards far Service Animals
Training Programs Other Terms Used to Refer to Service Dogs/Animals
The Difference between Service. Therapy, Companion and "Socialltherapy" Animals
Service Animais & Housing
Travel wiih your Service Dog
What (s a Service Dog (Animal)?
Chiidren with Disabilities According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA, 1990), a dog is considered a"service dog" if it
has been "(ndividuaily trafned to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability."
Aiso according to ihe ADA, a'disability' is a"mentai or physical condition which substantially limits a
Service Animal FAQs major life activiiy" such as:
Trainers & Products
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- caring for one's self
• performing manual iasks
• walking
• seeing
• hearing
• speaking
• breaihing
• learning
• working
• as well as some disabilities ihat may not be visible, such as:
deafness, epilepsy, and psychiatric conditions
To be considered a service dog, s/he must be trained to perform tasks direcily related to the person's
disability.
Example: Chris has a hearing disability and can't hear sounds such as a smoke alarms, doorbells,
sirens, or her name being calied. Chris is othenvise able to function with no other assistance. Chris
has a dog named Dusty. If Dusty is trained to let Chris know when a sound occurs (e.g., smoke alarm,
doorbell), Dusty is considered a service dog. On the other hand, if Dusty is only trained to retrieve
items around the house and does not know how to alert Chris to sounds, Dusty is not considered a
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service dog for Chris, because the task of retrieving is not directiy related to Chris' disability.
How can 1 make my dog a service animal?
The most frequent question posed to our Service Dog Resources representatives is, "How can i
make my dog a service dog so that I can take him/her everywhere I go?"
The only way fhat a dog can be recognized as a true "service animal" under the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA} is when the foilowing conditions are met:
• The owner or handier has a documented disability as defined under the ADA, "....a physical or
mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities".
• The dog (or miniature horse) must be trained fo perform a task or tasks that alleviate that
disabilify. The mere presence of fhe animal (for example, "s/he gives me a reason to get up
every morning") does not qaatify a dog as a service animal.
The dog (or miniature horse) must not aiter the environment for others. This means that sfhe
must be kept on a leash and under the control of the handler at all times in public, must nof
show signs of aggression, must be kept quiet and clean.
Unfortunately, there is considerable Iack of knowledge among the pubiic regarding the rights of the
disabled. Many people believe that withoui a'Service Dog" vest or tag, a dog cannot be a legitimate
service animal — and there are several unethical companies that profit by this ignorance. They sell
these foRns of identification without requiring proper proof of the level of training a dog has had, nor
medical documentation of a person's disabilify. If a dog does not meet all the requirements listed
above, buf a person misrepresenfs their dog as a service animal, they are in violation of a federat
law and subject to a f�eavy fine and/orimprisonmenf.
Minimum Standards for Service Animals
The Minimum Sfandards fo� Service Dogs, were developed by a team of service dog trainers, animal
behaviorisfs, people with disabilities, and veterinarians to guide the development of ihe Service Dog
Education System.
The Minimum Standards includes only those recommended characteristics and minimum behaviors
required of all service dogs. The characteristics and specialized behaviors required of individua� dogs
shouid vary, based on the individual requirements of the person for whom the dog is trained.
Download and Print the Minimum Standards for Service Animais
Purchase a soff-bound copv of the Minimum Standards for Service Animals
Other Terms Used to Refer to 5ervice Dogs/Animafs
To be consistent with the legal definition in the ADA, Pet Partners uses the foilowing terms:
Service Animal
Any DOG (or, in some cases, minature horse) that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks
for the benefit of a person with a disability.
Service Dog
Adapted from the term service animal, service dog is a species-specific term to generically describe
any dog in the role of a service animal.
The terminology used to label specific types of work dogs pertorm for people with disabilities has not
been standardized. For example, a dog trained to help a person walk might be referred to by different
sources as a'mobility dog', a'waiker dog', or a'support dog'. In addition to the wide varieiy of terms
used, many service dogs are cross-trained to perform more than one category of work (such as guide
and mobility for a person who is blind and has severe arthritis) and Iabeling them by the work they do
Page 2 of 3
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Service Animal Basics - Pet Partners
becomes cumbersome.
Many individuafs choose to identify their service animal generically because it identifies the roles of
ihe animals without disclosing the nature of the persons' disabilities, and it is consistent with the
terminology of the laws that protect them.
The Difference between:
Service, Therapy, Companion and "Socialltherapy" Animals
Servlce Animals are legally defined (Americans With Disabilities Act, 1990) and are trained to meet
the disa6ility-related needs of iheir handlers who have disabilities. Federal laws protect the rights of
individuals with disabilities to be accompanied by iheir service animals in public places, Service
animals are not considered'pefs'.
Therapy Animals are not legally defined by federal law, but some states have laws defining therapy
animals. They provide people with contact to animals, but are not limited to working with people who
have disabilities. They are usually the personal pets of their handlers, and work with iheir handlers to
provide services to others. Federal laws have no provisions for people to be accompanied by therapy
animals in places of public accommodation that have "no pets" policies. Therapy animals usually are
not service animals.
A Companion Animal is not legally defined, but is accepied as anoiher term for pet.
'Social/therapy' Animals have no legal definition. They often are animals that did not complete
service animal or service dog training due to heaith, disposition, trainability, or other factors, and are
made available as pets for people who have disabilities. These animals might or might not meet the
definition of service animals.
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Service Animal FAQs - Pet Partners
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Service Animal FAQs (Frequentiy Asked Questions) (
Scroli down the page to get answers to these questions. _ � o �
How can I aet a service doqtanimai? '
How can i make mv doa a service animal so 1 can take himlher everw�here I po?
How can I aet mv service doalanimal cettifletl(reaistered?
How much does a service dop cost?
Can I trairi mv own doa to be a service animal?
How do I find outwhat mv stafe's laws are reqardina service animals?
How do I find out what federal laws auplv to service animals?
What should I do if I am disc�imfnated aqainst because 1 have a service animai?
I was denied access with mv service doalanimai. What can I do?
How can I aet mv service donlanlmal allowed in housina7
I want to aet a service doqlanimal for mv child. Is this aosstb�e7
How does a doalanimal aualifv to become a asvchiatric service doq/animal7
Can mV service doq/animal ride in the airpiane cabin with me? What Is reautred7
How can I identifv if an animal is a service animal and not lust a pet?
What can I do if mv service animai is iniured bv another animel or bv a oerson?
I need leqal help. How do I Tind it?
Where can I qet abest for mv service anfmal?
How do 1 find a veterinarian who understantls mv animal's work•related needs?
Where can I aet haln if mv service animal has to retire or dies?
How do i become aservice doq trainer?
How do I become a puaav raiser for. or donate an animal to, a service dop trainina oraanization?
How can I get a service animai/dog?
ThePe are a variety of v+ays you can go about getting a service animal. Some organizalfons raise, train and
place service animals, while others solelylrain the animal for you or assist you in trainfng the animal
yourselL Aithough Pet Partners does not train or place service dogs, we do maintatn an e�ctensive online
d(rectory ot trainers. This directury of Service Doa Trainer Directorv is a great place to s(art your researct
This directory is not a complete Ilst of every service dog Mainer or trafning progPam, nor is it a guaranlee o(
quality. The entry for each traine� ot program Includes fnformation of what kind of dogs they traln (e.g.,
gufde, hearing, mobility, etc.) and what services Ihey offe� (e.g., train for muitiple tlisabililies, train own
animal, train handler, test and provide ID, elc.).
We also suggest you read our sec(ion 6n Service Animat Consumer Consideratfons. You must be an
educated consumerwhen looking for a service dog.
How can I make my dog a service animal so i can take him/her everywhere I go?
The most frequent questlon posed to our Service Dog Resources representalives is, "How can 1 make my
dog a service dog so that I can take himlher everywhere 1 go7"
The onlyway that a dog can be recognized as a true "service an(mal":under the Americans w�th Disabilities
Act (ADAj is when 1he foilovimg conditions are met
• The owner or handler has a documented disability as defined under the ADA, °....a physical or
mental impatrment that substantially limits one or more major 6fe activities'.
• The dog (or miniature horsej must de tra7ned to perform a task ortasks ihat aileviate ihat '
d(sability. The mere presence of lhe animal (for example, "sfie gives me a reason to get up every
moming°) does not qualify a dog as a service antmal.
� The dog (or miniature horse) must not alte� the environment fo� othe�s. This means that slhe must
be kept on a Ieash and under the conirol of the handler at all limes in public, must not show signs of
aggressfon, must be kept qulet and dean.
http://www.petpartners.org/page.aspx?pid=304 1/24/2013
Service Animal FAQs - Pet Partners
Unfo�tunately, t(iere Is considetable Iack of knowledge among the public regarding the rights o( lhe
disabled. Many people believe that without a"Service Dog vest o� tag, a dog cannot be a Iegitimate serv
animal—and there are several unethical companies that profit by this ignorance. They sell lhese forms of
Identification wilhout requiring proper prooi of ihe level of training a dog has had, nor medical
documentalion of a person's disability. If a dog does not meet all the requirements listed above, 6ut a
person represents their dog as a service animal, they are in violation of a federal lawand subject to a
heavy fine and/or imprisonment.
How can 1 get my service animal/dog certified/registered?
The ADA tloes not �equire service animals to 6e "cerlified'1 This iype of assessment and identification9s not
a Iegal requirement under the ADq and oiher federal non-discrimination laws, 6ut is preferred by some
handlers. Some service dog traine�s and programs evaluate the dogs they train and provide the handlers
with some type of ideniitication card.
Some tralners will test dogs they have not trained and pPovide the owner wiih identification cards. Refer to
ourdirectory of Service Animal Trainers and Trainina Proqrams and lookfor those that provide the
service'Test and Provide ID."
Note: Delta Society's directory of service anfmal trainers and lraining programs is not a complete list of every
service dog trainer or Vaining prog�am, nor (s It a guaranlee of quality. Some areas provide a special Iicense
for service dogs. The animal I(censing department in your staie or counly should he atile to tell you the
requirements for getting a special service do� tag.
How much does a servlce animal cost?
Trainer and acquisition fees may range from no cost to thousands of dollars, Each service animal trainer or
training proBram sets their own fees. Some people choose to look for sponsorship foP iheir service animal
from local organizations such as businesses, churohes, and civic groups. By helping sponsor a service
animai, local organizations give back to their community, much like sponsoring a youlh sports
team. 7he Assistance Dog United Campaign (ADUCj raises funds in support of the assistance dog
community. ADUC accepts voucher applications for new assistance dog partnerships. Vouche�s are issued
once a year and the decision oi to whom to give ihe vouchers is based on disability and financial needs.
ContactADUCat Info@assistancedoguniteticampaign.org.
Gan I train my own dog to be a service animal?
One oFihe big challenges for people training service dogs is getting the dog adequalely Irained for public '
access. Not ali dogs have the temperament fo handle the stress of working in public. Remembet ihat you
must meet the ADA definilion of having a"disabillt�' and, to be considered a service dog, your dog must be
trained to perform tasks directty related to your disability. ,
The MiNmum Standards for Service Doqs documents the recommended characteristics and minimum
of skills required of all service dogs, The Minimum Siandards also address the health and safety of the
public, handler, and dog.
Referto our directory of Service Animal Trainers and Treininq Proarams and look under Setvices
Provided for "Traln Handler." These (rainers and programs will help you train your own dog to be a service
dog, i( it is appropriate. Trainers and programs that do not list this service will not Uain your o�m dog.
Teamwork, A Dog T�aining Manual for People with Physicai DisabiliUes, Book One: Basic Obedience and
Teamwork II, A Dog Training Manual for People with Physical Disabilities (Service Exercises) (both availa
irom pogwise.com) are books viritten for people with disa6ilities to teach them to train their own dog to
perform service dog mobility skllis. Teamwork; Book One teaches basic commands such as down, doVm
stay, wait, and leave it: Teamwork II goes into skills such as retdeve, under, brace, lighl pull, and others.
You may also coniacl Dogwise.com at (800) 776-2662.
Assistance Dogs Intemational has developed a Public Access Test that reflects what they feel a service dog
team should know to he safe in public.
How do I find out what my state's taws are regarding service animals?
Laws vary from state to state. Some are (n compliance with federal laws, and some are not: Many have
been recenfly revised or are in ihe process o( revislon. Find out the current provisions of state laws by
contacting your state Attomey Gene�al's office. Since fhe language in state laws vades, you might have to
expiain that you v�ant ihe laws that appty to service dogs - guide dogs, hearing dogs, eta Specify if you ne
laws that apply to padicular situations, such as housing, transpottation, etc. When state or local laws conB
with federal laws, the IaW ihat provldes greater protection for the person wilh fhe disability is ihe law that
takes precedence.
How do 1 find out what federal laws apply to service animals?
Please �efer to the Oenied Access, Now What? page.
What shouid I do if I am discriminated against because I have a service animal?
http://www.petpartners.org/page. aspx?pid=304
Page 2 of 5
1/24/2013
Service Animal FAQs - Pet Partners
Ityou think you have been unreasonably prevented from accessing a business' goods and services orfeel
you have been othenvise discriminated against because you have a disablliry and are accompanied by a
servlce animal, you can refer to the Denied Accees, Now What? page for informalion on how to document
and present you� compiaint to the service provider. in addition, yoU can file complaints wiih appropriale statf
and federai agencles. IFyou Ihfnk a state law has been violated, you can file a compla(nt with the
enforcement agency for lhat law. Otten this Is ihe state Human Rights Commisslon;you can find oul (he
enforcement agency by contacting your state Attomey General's office. Formai complaints about violations
of federal lavrs can be filed wilh (he federal agency responsible fo� enforcing the applicable law and with lhe
state agency Ihat enforces nondiscrimination laws (often the Human Rlghts Commission).
I was denied access with my service doglanimal. Whaf can 1 do?
CUCK HERE to be provided with a full overview of how to overcome being denied access with your service
animal. The follovring is a list of piaces where you can get additional help:
• Access to publlc places wilh a service dog and other rights under ihe Americans vrilh Disabililies Act
(ADA):
Department of Justice at (800) 514-0307; TTY (800) 514•0383;
www.0 sd oi.q ovlc rUadaiad ah om 1.h tm
• Housing with a Service Animal:
Depaiimenl of Hous(ng and Urban Development at (202) 708-1112; TfY (202) 708-1q55;
�wnv.hud.nov
• Traveiing with a Service Animal:
Deparlment of Transportatlon at (202) 3�6-4D00; wvnv.dot.aov
, Bringing your Service Mimal to Work:
Job Acwmmoda�ion Network, a free service of the Office of Olsabilfty Employment Policy of the
Deparlment of Labor, at (800) 526-7234; lanweb.icdf.wvu.edu
• Assistance Dogs Intemationai's Guide to Assistance Dog Laws (2005) Santa Rosa, CA
Assistance Dogs Intemational; 144 pages; visitwww.adioMine.orq
• State laws that appiy to people wilh service dogs:
Contact your Slate Attomey General's office and request that lhey direct you to the appropriate state
agency.
How can I get my service dog/animal allowed in housing?
Landlords, tenants and owners in mulEi(amiry housing, housing managemenl associations and realtors often
have queslions about service anlmals in housing that frad(tionally has had no-pet policles: In many areas,
despite federal and some state laws that protect people w(ih dfsabilltles to have service anlmals In housing,
confusion ebout rlghts and obligations persist. This can lead to discriminatfon.
The Federal Fafr Housinp Amendments Act is ihe law that mosl often helps to provide the guidance
necessary to answer the quesGons thal arise about service animais in housing. This arlicie Is not legai
advice, bul ls fnfotmal technical asslstance to help answer some of the most frequenlly asked hous(ng
questlons. Advice about individual circumslances and ebout ttie Jegal interpretaAon of ihe Falr Housing Act
can be obtained from ihe local Housing and Urban Development (Hl1D) o(fice. How ihe Fafr Housing Act
Protecls Individuals With Disa6ilities with Regard to SeMce Mimals.
Click ihe following 1(nk for mote Info�mation about Service Animals in Housinn.
i want to get a service doglanimal for my child. Is this possible7
Some service dog trafners will irain a service dog for chfldren unde� 18 year oid. Trainers usually will irain a
dog for a chiid based on a cedain age or Ihe maturity of ihe child. Pet Pariners' directory oF Service Animal
Trainers and Trainina Proqrams Will indicate under Services pmvided if a tralner will consider placing a
service dog with a chlld.
Note; pelta Society's directory of service animai trainers and training programs is not a complete list of every
service dog trainer or iraining program, nor is it a guarantee of qualiry. Some areas provide a special license
for service dogs. The animal licensing department in your slate or county should be abie to tell you the
requirements tor getling a special service dog tag.
How does an dog/animai qualify to become a psychiatric service animai?
The Americans with Disabilities Ac[, 1990, (AbA), defines service animal as: "any animal Individually iralned
to do work or pertorm tasks for ih� beneFit of a pe�son with a disabllity." The pDAdefines a disabiliry as: "a
mental or physical condi6on which substantially limits a majo�life ac8v�ty such as caring for ona's salf,
perFqrming manual taskswalking seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning and workfng:' '
To be considered a service anlmal, ihe animalsmust be trained to pertorm tasks directly related to the
person's disa6ility. "Comfoding" or"giviog iove", although cl(nically proven io be beneftcial for people,
would not be acknowledged as a tralned °task" bylhe pepartment of Justice, which enforces Ihe ADA.
Page 3 of 5
http://www.petpartners. org/page. aspx?pid=3 04 1/24/2013
Service Animal FAQs - Pet Partners
Examples of irained tasks performed by psychiatric senrice dogs can be found at
www.iaadp.org/psd tasks.html. _.—____,_``
Can my service doglanimal ride in the airplane cabin with me7 What is required?
Service dogs are allowed to ride in ihe airpiane cabin wiih their handlec CLICK HERE to go to the'Travelin
with your Service Animal' articles on our website.
For more fnformalion contacl lhe Department of Transportatlon at (202) 366-0000; www.dot.qov.
How can I identify if an animat is a service animai and not jusf a pet7
The simpie answer is to ask the handler, °Is this a service dog? You may also ask whal tasks the dog has
been trained to do for the handler. A service dog can be any breed or size.
There is no Federal requirement that the dog wear any special gear or identification. Also, there is no
requirement ihat the handler carry any cerfification papers showing that the dog has been trained as a
service dog. You may not ask the person a6o�t the nature or extent of his or her disabilify.
For more information, read Service Animal Basics
What can I do if my service animai is injured by another animal or by a person?
Federal laws do not address injury to service animals, but some slates and localiiies have such laws.
Additionally, many states and Iocali8es have laws about the humane treatment of animals. To find out if �
situation is covered by existing l avt, contact your State Attomey General's office. The law �vill iden6fy the
agency lhat enforces the law and any recourse you may have under Ihe Iaw.
I need legai help. How do 1 find if?
You can get legal referrals from your local or state Bar Association. Other sources for referrals fnclude:
people you know whose opinions you lrust. state's Protection and Advocacy agency. disability advocacy
agencies. legal clinics or legal aid programs, often connected wiih law school. Specify the type of situation
you are dealing with so you can locate an al[omey with experlise in that area. Consult a� attomey for
guidance regarding whelher you have additional legal options.
Where can 1 get a vesf for my service animal?
Do�vnioad aur directory of Service Animal Product Suopliers. Product suppliers help people with service
dogs obtain necessary equipment and supplies. Please contact the supplier directly for prices and other
informaUon.
How do I find a veterinarian who understands my animais's work-related needs?
It will be important for the veterinarian lo be able to address not oniy your service animal's needs, but also
your disability-related needs as ihey affect the accessibility of his or her services. Wfien you interview
potential care providers, discuss how your anima� works for you. If you have any ADA needs (accessi6le
parking, allemately formatted malerials, etc.), make sure lhey are avallable.
Where can i gef heip if my service animal has to retire, or dies?
Delta Society has information about dealing with this type of loss. Informalion about Pet Loss and
Bereavement, including the blbiiography, a list of counselors, support groups and hotlines lhat are aval
to help people ihro�gh the transition of separating Trom a service animal, are available on this web site.
AddiOonal articies are available on our Service Animai Articles & Resources page.
How do I become a service dog trainer?
if you are looking for iraining to be a service dog trainer, you might consider the following resources:
• Assistance Dog Institute fn Santa Rosa, CA. They have classes to become an assistance dog
trainer. (Some people use lhe term "service dogs" and others use ihe term "assistance dog".) ADI
grants Associate of Science and Maslers of Science degrees fn Assfstance Dog Education. 7helr
contact information (s:
Web sile: www.assistancedog.org
Email: info@assistancedog.org
Phone: (707) 5453647
• East Coast Ass(stance Dogs operales a state-of-the art training facility (n partnership vrith The
Children's Vllage of Dobbs Ferry, NY, where regulariy scheduled Train-the-Trainer programs for
adulfs inlerested in assistance dog careers iake place. Their contact information is:
Web slle: www.ecadl.org
Email: ecad1@aol.com
Phone: 914-6930600, ext.1952 or 1953
Page 4 of 5
http://www.petpartners.orglpage.aspx?pid=304 1/24/2013
Service Animal FAQs - Pet Partners
� NEADS (Nationai Education of Assistance Dog Services, Inc.) gives one session each per year for
learning how to frain mobilily and hearing service dogs. Their conlact informatfon Is:
Web site: www.neads.org
Email: neadsdogs@aol.com
Phone:(978)422-9064
Anolher approach io becoming a service dog trafner is to contact service dog training organ(zatfons, and a
If lhey have an apptenticeship program. Refer to ihe Service Animal Trainer Directorv and tralning
programs and look for those that provfde the service "Apprenilceship" in the Services Provided Seclion.
These tralners and programs wfll have appreniicesh�p programs. Noie: Delta Society has a list of service
dog trainers and training programs that asked to be listed on our web site. Thls list is not a complete list of
every service dog trainer or training program, nor is It a puaranFee of quality.
How do i become a puppy raiser or donate an animal to a service animal training
organizat(on?
ponors and puppy ralsers (people who house and socialize a young dog before it receives speGalized
training) can follovr ihe same guidelines as people who are evaluating ira(ners (See How Do I Know If The
Trainer or Organizalion is Legitimale?). To find ou[ more contact a service animal trainernearyou.
Page 5 of 5
http://www.petpartners. org/page. aspx?pid=3 04 1/24/2013
THE POT BELLY PIG AS A THERAPY ANIMAL
The Pot Belly Pig is a miniature pig that has become popular as a pet due to its docile nature,
smaller size and relative ease in training. The pet pot belly pig, raised properly as a companion
animal can be a good choice for Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) programs. Pet Partners is the only
Therapy Animal Registry that allows pigs as therapy animals
Characteristics of a Pot Belly Pig:
1. Miniature pig as an adult (150 # or less on average yet about the size of a medium-sized
dog)
2. Small, upright ears
3. Straight tail
4. Swayed back and pot-bellied
How a Pet Pig (raised in the home as a family pet) is different from a Farm Pig (raised in crowded,
unnatural conditions for food production):
• The pig raised as a companion animal is conditioned to see peopie as the sotarce of food,
comforfi and companionship in its life.
• The pig raised to work as a therapy animal is raised in the owner's home so the pig is used
to the sights, sounds, smells and activity of an indoor facility and is acclimated to the
lifestyle of the people it lives with.
• The pet pig is housetrained
• The pet pig (much like the pet dog) learns many skills, boundaries and basic obedience
training from the owners.
• The pet pig has a positive relationship with the family members it lives with.
• The pig must learn to ride in a vehicle (in a crate/ or behind a barrier) calmly.
• The pet pig will learn to walk on a harness and leash and be willing to go where the owner
leads it.
• The pet pig will learn boundaries and manners much like that of a pet dog,
What a Therapy Animal goes through during the testing process (including the pig):
Basic (and later-more advanced) obedience skills training, (Sit; Walk on a Loose Lead; Stay;
Leave-it; Come and Lay down; taking a treat gently from a person; politely greefiing
strangers}
Aptitude training; (A full, restraining hug; clumsy petting; being surrounded by no less than
3 people talking to and petting the pig all at once; a loud noise and a visual distraction such
as a person running in front of the pig; walking through a crowd with people who have
disabilities/medical support equipment; being near a couple having an angry conflict. )
Being exposed to a`neutral' dog ( one who is calm and friendly)
What a Therapy Animal Handler nnust complete in order to attain the registration:
• Complete the skills and aptitude test with the animal-showing control and support.
• Completing an onIine Handler Course or attending a workshop taught by a licensed Pet
Partnerinstructor
• Passing a written test online
• Taking the pig to a veterinarian to verify that it is healthy, parasite free (internal and
external), current on vaccinations and qualified to visit others as a therapy animal.
• Paying for all the associated fees.
Once completed, the title of Pet Partners Therapy Animal Team will be issued via a letter and also
an identi�cation badge for the handler and an identification tag for the pet. The team must renew
their registration every 2 years to remain a current Therapy Animal Team with Pet Partners- the
only registry that allows animals outside of dogs (domestic farm animals, cats, rabbits, domestic
birds and pocicet pets)
Written by;
Sherry J. Eddy CVT
320-420-2046
Pet Partners Therapy Animal Handler
Pet Partner Licensed Team Evaluator (Lic. # 32971)
Certified Veterinary Technician
Owner of Animal Inspirations, LLC
Professional Animal Training and Therapeutic Animal Programming
www.animalinspirationsllc.com
Therapy Pig of Boy with Down Syndrome at Center of Local Law Dispute - PawNation Page 1 of 4
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THERAPY PIG OF 60Y WITH DOWN SYNDROME AT
CENTER OF LOCAL LAW DISPUTE
More on PawNation: Farm Animals, Legal, Pigs, Sad, The Dish, Therapy Pet
By Kelli BenderNov 21st 2012
Therapy pels are amazing and allruistic creatures; sadly, not all of them are treated
equally. According to the Daily Mail U.K., a liltle boy with Down syndrome may be fined
for his pel lherapy pig, because the animal is illegal to keep as a pel in his Florida lown.
Kason Ray's family got lhe seven-week-old pig, Tiny Twinkie, to help lheir son wilh his
developmenl. The Rays say they have already seen a positive change in Kason's
behavior with lhe pig in the picture. Tiny Twinkie's sweet face and demeanor are lhe
perfect lool against controlling Kason's occasional fits.
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"He doesn't like things and Tiny Twinkie has a very calming effect on him. It mellows him
out, it calms him down," Kason's mother, Heather, shared with Daily Mail U.K. "Il's so
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http://www.pawnation.com/2012/11 /21 /therapy-pig-of-boy-with-down-syndrome-at-center... 3/20/2013
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Therapy Pig of Boy with Down Syndrome at Center of Local Law Dispute - PawNation Page 2 of 4
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Regardless of the positive effects Twinkie is having on the Ray family, the city ,- �� r
govemment of Coral Springs is saying the animal is illegal. A city ordinance says thal pigs �+'f-��" Whales Get Up Close
canno[ he kept because the animal is considered livestock. O�cials from lhe city have -- �� and Personal With
said they are willing lo ovedook lhe rule if the Rays can prove lhe pet is a medical �'�-;
necessity. � � � ���,?;
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Healher Ray says that she has already tried this, asking the city for a waiver against the
law when she first researched therapy pigs. The mother explained thal lhe family could
not get a dog or rabbit, due to seve�e allergies inside the family. She also senl along lhe
documenlation asked for by lhe local government, including a letter of approval from
Kason's doctor.
In addition, Heather Ray has also conlacted the Department of Justice for assistance.
The department told Ray that Kason has the right to keep Tiny Twinkie because of federal
laws that protect American with disabilities.
Even with all of this support, lhe ciry says Tiny Twinkie cannot be a cerlified therapy pet
until she is a year old, and will have lo conlinue lo lake aclion. The Rays are prepared lo
fight, working on Tiny Twinkie's certification and looking inlo become lherapy pel handlers
themselves.
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"Unfortunately, in our society, you know, people wilh special needs just are nol always Fisher-Price Sweepstakes
accepted ... an animal loves you, no matter what," Heather Ray lold the Daily Mail U.K. � You could win $1,000! Share your
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very imporianl to him, for us lo have lhat for him."
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For now, Tiny Twinkie is still with lhe Rays and no legal action has been taken by lhe cily, ��� :. Minneapolis Mom publishes free
bul the govemment has made it clear lhat the family could receive fines of up to $500 a /F� i facelift secret that has ange...
day for keeping lhe pig. The Rays have made it Gear they are willing to do whalever it �i�` ConsumerLifesryles.net
takes to keep Kason and his beloved pig-friend logelher.
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Therapy Pig of Boy with Down Syndrome at Center of Local Law Dispute - PawNation
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`�R���� More proof, that Floridians are brain - dead. Nol only do they
not know how to vole, they are also ignorant about the benefits
of animals on people's lives. This is insane. FLORIDA: Lel
them keep lhe pigl
November 23 2012 al 11:09 AM
�, Kat
� if this was one of lhe cily governments kids lhere would b no
problem. let this child KEEP his pet
November 22 2012 at 1:42 PM
�,� Chris StuII
�fy „ Wny on earth would these parents pul their child in a position
where he could lose his companion to begin with? They knew
the zoning yet stumbled ahead and did it anyway. The child will
suffer and so will that liltle pig wilhout lhe proper training and
guidance. No good is going to come from lhis and in the end
the animal is always lhe loser. It makes me extremely angry
because there are laws to prolect lhose animals which are
lherapy animals, but a 6 weeks old pig is not one of them. Very
short sighted parents.
November 22 2012 a18:37 AM
http://www.pawnation.com/2012/ 11 /21 /therapy-pig-of-boy-with-down-syndrome-at-center... 3/20/2013
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Tr�erapy Pig of Boy with Down Syndrome at Center of Local Law Dispute - PawNation Page 4 of 4
� unclejonl
GROW A HEART......CHANGE THE FRIGGIN LAW..! Are we
so caught up in politics and policies that we can nol be there
for someone that is needy ? REALLY ?
Novem6er 22 2012 at 8:12 AM
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http://www.pawnation.com/2012/ 11 /21 /therapy-pig-of-boy-with-down-syndrome-at-center... 3/20/2013
Page 1 of 1
YAHOOi fV W�
Twinkie the Mini Pig Gets Official Exemption From Coral
Springs, Fla., Law
By Suzan Clarfce � ABC News Blogs — Tue, Jan 22, 2013
It's official. The o�mer of a mini Juliana emotional therapy pig that was at the center of a months-long local law dispute in
Florida has been granted a waiver to keep the pig without penalty.
In a Jan.181etter, Coral Springs City Attorney John Hearn wrote that Heather Ray was allowed to lceep the mini pig named
Twinkie without ivnning afoul of local ordinances that prohibit the keeping of pigs as pets.
Ray has initially requested an exemption from the law in September. She had bought Twinlde as an emotional therapy
animal for her young son, Kason, who has Down's syndrome.
Because of the city's strict ordinances prohibiting the keeping of pigs, officials declined her request.
But Ray appealed to the city, explaining that an emotional therapy pet had been recommended by her son's doctor, and her
husband's allergies wouldn't allow them to get other ldnds of animals because he could have a severe allergic reaction.
She wrote letters and spoke to several city officials, and even started a petition on Change.org to have the city ordinance
changed to allow domestic miniature pigs as indoor household pets. When she closed the petition Monday, it had been
signed by 285 people.
Ray also shared her stoLy to the media, and the public voiced its strong disapproval with the city's position.
"What's wrong with you people? I.et this boy have his pig," Caii Robinson wrote on the cit}�s Facebook page.
When the city posted on its wall on Nov. zo to wish its residents "a wonderful holiday season," user Kara Whitehead wrote
in reply: "Tell that to the boy that you will not allow to have his pet."
The city eventually said it would reconsider her request if she submitted documentation certifying the need for an
emotional therapy animal and of her husband's allergies. She did.
Twinkie is a litter box-trained, indoor pet. At 4 months old, she weighs 6 pounds. When she grows into adulthood, she will
measure about iz inches tall and weigh between Zo and 4o pounds.
Ray had never been fined by the city, but officials had made it clear to her that she could be charged up to $50o per day for
keeping the pig.
Spealcing in an inteiview with ABC News last night, Ray said she was happy the issue had been resolved, but soriy that it
had taken so long.
"It could have been so easy. You know, there's nothing that has changed from today that was any different back in
September when �ve started all of this and if they could have just been compassionate in the beginning and just asked for a
prescription, asked for medical records that would give reasonable accommodation ... we would have gladly given them all
of that back in September and this �vould not have dragged out for months and months," she said.
She said the public has been veiy understanding, and many have recognized Twinlde and asked to take pictures with her.
"People have been veiy nice, veiy, very supportive, veiy sweet about eveiything," she said. °I haven't had one negative
comment ... one person say anything ugly."
Also Read
Copyiight 2o1g AI3C News Blogs
Copyiight c0 2013 Yahoo! Inc. All rig6ts reserved. � Yahoo! - ABC News Nerivork �/
http://news.yahoo. com/blogs/abc-blogs/twinkie-mini-pig-gets-official-exemption-coral-spr... 3 /20/2013
Potbellied Pi�s: The New Thera� Animals
�iic nere ir you are a v erinary rroressionai
Potbellied Pigs: The New Therapy Animals
BY CARRIE SLOAN � MAY 22, 2012
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Speech therapist Lois Brady with her miniature therapy pig,
Buttercup, who works with autistic patients.
Move over, Babe. There's a new breed of pig in town.
Page 1 of 2
While certain little piggies may go to market, others spend their free time work
animals in schools and nursing homes.
And, in some cases, they're even better than the proverbial dog at providing tl
Why Not Just Get a Therapy Dog?
Lois Brady, a speech language pathologist based in Martinez, Calif., works wi
ages of 6 and 22 who have autism or other special needs. When she decided
animal, a canine was the first thing that came to her mind.
"I filed through all of them in my head," Brady says. "A dog was the most natu
the autism spectrum have had bad experiences with dogs in the past." If they
they may cover their ears or even run from the room.
Something like a bunny, on the other hand, was too fragile. "Students have a hard time `grading their muscles' or knowing how h<
animals," she says.
Her therapy animal had to not only be a good fit with the kids, but it had to be portable. Enter Buttercup, a 3-year-old, miniature p
schools with her.
Brady can cite a few reasons why her porcine pet has been the perFect panacea in the classroom. "Students love him because th
notion of what a pig should be," she says. "He's so visually curious to them that they're immediately drawn to Buttercup. Kids whc
spell their own name remember everything about him, from where he sleeps to how many siblings he has."
Better yet: Buttercup is preternaturally calm. "Many of our students have aggressive behaviors," she says. "A pig can definitely ta
around and want to attack."
The Perfect Therapy Pig
Lois and Buttercup, who volunteer through PetPartners — a nonprofit that brings therapy, service and companion animals to peo
certified before Buttercup could be, in a word, unleashed
The duo took a two-week assisted therapy course before setting up an appointment for Buttercup's formal, two-hour evaluation. �
pulled his tail, but Buttercup remained singularly focused on the prize: a carrot. He passed with flying colors.
Of course, not all potbellies are born for therapy work. "It takes a special pig," says Priscilla Merta, the owner of a 10-year-old, 11
Sherman who volunteers with her at nursing homes throughout New Jersey. "Some pets can handle a more stressful environmer
have to get used to the wheelchairs, the action."
According to Merta, the minute they arrive at the nursing home, Sherman wants to get going. "The residents just love him," she s
back, come back.' " Merta especially loved the day that a blind man got to pet Sherman.
http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/potbellied-pigs-the-new-therapy-animals 2/12/2013
Shriners Hospitals for Children - Frankie the Pig Provides Therapy at Shriners Hospitals £.. Page 1 of 1
� Shriners Fiospitals
for ChiWren°
Love to the rescue:"
Featured Story
Frankie the Pig Provides Therapy at Shriners Hospitals for Children
� )
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Bonnie Morgan adopted her firsl pig in 1985, shortly after reading a Newsweek magazine arlicle
on how pol-bellied pigs make great pets for people who don't have yards.
First came Hamlet. Oliver was next. Now there is Frankie, the only one of the Morgan's ihree pigs
to volunleer al Shriners Hospitals for ChildrenOO — Northern California.
"It is such a privilege to be a part of this," says Bonnie, who put Frankie through lhe stringent
Della Society evaluation so she could volunteer at the children's specialty hospital in Sacramenlo.
The Delta Society is an international, not-for-profit organization of pel owners, volunteers,
therapists, educalors, velerinarians and olher health professionals dedicated to improving human
i I heallh ihrough service and therapy animals. All animals registered as pet therapy volunteers are
I evaluated and regislered by lhe Della Sociery.
Frankie is one of 32 pets that volunleer at the hospital. "Right now we have 27 dogs, 1 cat, 2 bunnies, 1 pig and 1 rat," says Calhy Bones, pet
lherapy coordinator at Ihe hospital. "There is almost always an animal visiting every day, including evenings and weekends."
Fully credentialed as pet therapy volunleers, Frankie and Bonnie drive regularly from lheir hilltop ��� � �"�� �
home in Vallejo lo visil lhe kids af the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Sacramenlo. Frankie
sleps from lhe backseat of lhe car into a red wagon and rides lhrough lhe front doors of lhe
hospital, up the elevator and into the central activity area. Within seconds, patients and parents
gather around the wagon to be near Frankie and feel his coarse black hair. Frankie returns the
affeclion wilh a"click" of his cheeks.
h
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A human resource specialist by profession, Bonnie also volunleers at an Alzheimers facility in '�
Berkeley and an assisled living facility in American Canyon. But seeing how Frankie brings smiles 1
to young faces is an inspiring experience, says Bonnie who treasures lhe opportuniry to be part of `�
lhe pet therapy program. �'�� ``
"Pigs are an inleresling species — very intelligent and clean, unlike most livestock and barnyard critters," says Bones, who inlerviews all
volunleer pets and lheir handlers. "One of the goals of pet-assisted fherapy is to increase communication with olher people, and Frankie – just by
being Frankie – has a way of bringing people together. Kids and adults alike are exciled lo meet Frankie when he is here, and perhaps learn
something aboul pigs," says Bones.
At home, Frankie fils in jusl like a family dog. He climbs up and down the slairs, watches television wilh Bonnie and her husband, Jim, and goes
for walks in the neighborhood.
"Exercise is very imporlant because they do like to eal and can gain weight easily," says Bonnie.
In the photos:
Top: Frankie get a treat irom his handler, Bonnie Morgan.
Right: Kids and adults are excited to meet Frankie as he makes his rounds at Shriners Hospitals for Children — Northem Cali/ornia.
Copyright 2012 Shriners Hospitals for Children�
Featured Partner: ��
����'I l�t�
Sesuro Payment Prot�sping
http://www. shrinershospitalsforchildren. org/Hospitals/Locations/NorthernCalifornia/Featu... 1 /25/2013