For the past year, in our peaceful neighborhood in the Village of Hamburg, New York, two roosters - Veta and Uma - have formed an integral part of my life. As emotional support animals, they have provided tremendous help in my ongoing treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Besides their crucial role in my personal recuperation, they have also been warm, loving pets, bringing joy to my household with their clucking and crowing.

Recently, we have come under scrutiny, indicating a possible violation of village regulations. Yet there have been no issues or complaints about these roosters over the past year. Their presence in our community is non-intrusive and there is overwhelming scientific consensus on the positive effects of emotional support animals on mental health (according to the professional sources mentioned in the American Veterinary Medical Association).

The situation poses a concerning question - Should we penalize emotional support animals simply because they fall outside traditional expectations? Changing this stance requires understanding and empathy from our village's administration. We are appealing to the Village of Hamburg to recognize the significant role that Veta and Uma play in supporting my mental health, and allow us to keep them. Their loss would not only mean losing cherished pets but also a critical part of my PTSD treatment as a service-connected Veteran!

Let's urge our administration to revisit their policies on emotional support animals and make a compassionate decision in this particular case. Your support can make a tremendous difference. Please sign the petition. There will be a meeting regarding this issue on July 1, 2024. Please consider attending the meeting at the Village or Town Hall. Thank you for your support. Gregg Pacillo and Donna Haefner