It’s springtime again with the arrival of April. And, like always, the CertaPet team is back to give you the latest scoops on the Emotional Support Animals in the community. This week we take you to Florida and Michigan for our new reports.
Tallahassee Courthouse Swears In 18 Service Dogs For Victims Of Violent Crimes
Leon County Courthouse, Tallahassee, swore in 18 therapy dogs this week to honor 16 years of the Second Judicial Circuit Animal Therapy in the Courts Program.
The total number of service dogs now serving the Second Judicial Circuit is 36 in over six counties. The Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Animal Therapy Program provides these service animals at no cost to the Second Judicial Circuit.
The therapy dogs program works with witnesses and child victims of violent crimes in criminal and dependency court. They help bring comfort and solace to tense situations in courtrooms, and the Program has the honor of being one of the largest and oldest therapy dog initiatives in the United States.
Chief Judge J. Sjostrom said the ceremony held for the handlers and canines “…is a way for the courts to show our appreciation to the volunteers of the TMH Animal Therapy Program and their animal partners.”
Source: Tallahassee Democrat
Federal Court In Michigan Rules In Favor Of A Resident Fighting To Keep His Emotional Support Chickens
Michigan’s federal court recently denied Southgate City’s motion for summary judgment against a resident who wanted to keep six chickens as Emotional Support Animals.
Christopher Whiteaker and his family rented a home where he raised chickens on the property. Whiteaker’s diagnosed with major depressive disorder, general anxiety disorder, and acute stress disorder.
This is why when the city issued him a ticket for keeping chickens violating a city ordinance, he sought an exemption under Michigan’s Right to Farm Act.
When the family moved to their home in Southgate, the city issued a citation for violating Ordinance 610.13, which restricts keeping any animals on a residential property except dogs, birds, felines, and other ‘harmless’ domestic pets.
After several attempts to reach a middle ground, Whiteaker requested a waiver from Ordinance 610.13 due to his disability and provided a letter from his mental health provider as support. The city denied his request and pursued the violation in the 28th District Court.
U.S. District Judge Sean F. Cox denied the city’s motion and stated, “…contrary to the City’s claim, Whiteaker’s mental health provider does explain why Whiteaker needs all six chickens.”
The Judge clarified that “…the removal of even one chicken would negatively impact Whiteaker’s depression.” That meant without his Emotional Support Chickens, Whiteaker wouldn’t have equal use and enjoyment of his property as a non-disabled person would.
Source: Florida Realtors
CertaPet’s Thoughts on This Week’s News
This was a good week for Service and Emotional Support Animals enthusiasts. Cristopher Whiteaker’s case may help more people hold on to their ESAs in light of contradictory city ordinances. How the issue will impact future litigation remains to be seen.
We do not certify anything but cats and dogs and the occasional rabbit. We understand that other animals may have therapeutic value and we do not discredit that at all, but it is our policy to only recognize dogs, cats, and rabbits due to zoning restrictions, health concerns and regulations, and public safety.
If you’re living with a mental illness, getting an emotional support animal could really help your recovery. These loving animals could ease your symptoms and help you live a happier, fuller life. If you’re ready to start the process, take our 5-minute pre-screening test for free. We’ll connect you with a licensed mental health professional, who will have a consultation with you. Then, if you qualify, you’ll get your ESA letter in no time.