Michigan authorities reject boy's mini-pig plea

Child suffers from allergies associated with long-haired animals, pig is only pet.

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Associated Press

Fri, Sep 17 2010 at 4:37 PM

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Pets

BEST FRIENDS: Ethan White feeds his pet pig Roger at home. (Photo: Thomas Simonetti/AP)

Mid-Michigan authorities have decided that Roger the miniature pig can't live with a 9-year-old boy with severe pet allergies. The Midland City Council unanimously denied a request to allow the animal to live at a home that Ethan White shares with his parents, Jason and Lisa. Ethan says the pig is his "best friend in animal life."

Ethan is allergic to animals with long hair and fur. Local ordinances do not allow residents to own pigs.

Several residents spoke in support of the family during Monday night's meeting. Many council members acknowledged the family could properly care for the 4-pound animal, but expressed concerns about those seeking future permission.

Lisa told the Midland Daily News that council's vote is "encouraging people to skirt the law."

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On the Net: Information from: Midland Daily News