Success: Disabled Child Allowed to Keep Therapy Pig

Target: Jay Tibshraeny, Chandler, Arizona Mayor and Chandler City Council Members

Goal: Thank city officials for allowing boy to keep therapy pig that helps him to conquer everyday challenges.

A boy with Asperger’s syndrome who deeply relies on his therapy pot-bellied pig–Maggie–was almost forced to find her a new home because of a city ordinance. However, thanks to city officials, the pig will continue to remain at the little boy’s side. Thank the mayor and city councilmen for allowing this pig and little boy to remain a team.

David and Arlene Gil were originally told they had to get rid of the pig because they are not allowed to have livestock where they live. The original decision came after the city received an anonymous complaint. However, the boy’s parents argued that their son Julian–who struggles with Asperger’s Syndrome–refuses to pay attention to any other service animal.

Because it was clearly proven that the pig is protected under the federal housing law since it helps the boy deal with his symptoms, city officials ruled she will be allowed to continue living with the boy at the family’s home. The decision likely came as happy news to Julian and his parents, since the animal helps the boy to better interact in social situations and even calms him down when he is upset.

Thank the city officials, attorney and activists, such as those from the ForceChange community, who fought to make sure this little boy would be allowed to keep his friend by his side. Because people cared enough to try and make a difference, Julian will continue to lead a happy and productive life.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Mayor Tibshraeny,

It has recently come to my attention that you allowed an autistic little boy to keep his therapy pot-bellied pig, despite an anonymous complaint stating the pig should be removed from the family’s home. I would like to thank you very much for making this decision, as the animal helps Julian to live a productive and fulfilling life.

As the family’s attorney John Schill pointed out, the pig is not simply a pet but an important part of the boy’s life that helps him to thrive both socially and as an individual. Because Julian and his pig will remain united, he will be able to continue making positive steps towards overcoming immensely difficult challenges.

Thank you so much for making the heartfelt decision to allow Julian to keep Maggie as his therapy pet. Your decision has made a little boy who is forced to deal with several struggles on a daily basis extremely happy.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo Credit: Eli Duke