MIDLAND (AP) -- Mid-Michigan authorities have given Roger the miniature pig the boot, leaving a 9-year-old boy with severe pet allergies without his "best friend in animal life."
The Midland City Council unanimously denied a request that would have allowed the animal to remain at a home that Ethan White shares with his parents, Jason and Lisa.
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 says that council's vote is "encouraging people to skirt the law, to ignore protocol and be deceitful."
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