03-17-1994 Public Hearing and Regular Meeting of the La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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• • The Potbellied Pig Registry Service 22819 Stanton Road • Lakeville, IN 46536 , (219) 784-298) attn: CITY COUNCIL/ZONING COMMISSION re: POTBELLIED PIGS AS PETS To whom it may concern: In 1985, a Canadian exotic animal importer/breeder, Keith Connell, imported the first potbellied pigs into Canada. They were destined for zoos originally, but in 1986, Californian Kayla Mull recognized their suitability as pets and began to promote them. Soon, others took notice of these unique animals and the interest in their small size, gentle disposition, immense affection and keen intelligence grew. Since the first few Americans purchased potbellied pigs, many more have fallen in love with these special creatures. People who have always enjoyed pigs have become especially enamored with the suitability of these animals to indoor living. Preferring an average living temperature of 65-85°, these mini-pigs fit quite comfortably into the average household. Size-wise, the potbellied pig can weigh 35-100 lbs. if a pet, or up to 150 lbs. if a breeding animal, and stand up to 22'' tall at the shoulder. They quickly learn to potty in a litter box like a cat, or to go outside like a dog. Potbellied pigs desire a warm, clean environment, and will go out of their way to keep it that way, even if it means holding their, potty for a long time. Potbellied pigs are odorless (except ~ for non-neutered boars) and seldom, 'if ever, shed. • At one time, there were concerns for what effect potbellied pigs had • on human health. A study was done by a California university which concluded that potbellied pigs posed fewer threats to human health and safety than dogs and cats in a typical residential setting. This, combined with the already mild nature of the potbellied pig, results in far fewer cases of animal' bites and disease transmission through saliva and feces than can be attributed to dogs and cats. Also, because potbellied pigs have hair, not fear like dogs and cats, they have become very desirable among highly allergic individuals. As a registry, we strive to preserve the quality and pureness of the potbellied pig breed by keeping extensive records on all our registered pigs. Each pig registered with us is traceable to one or more documented potbellied pig import groups. Pigs with questionable pedigrees or exhibiting genetic defects are not granted registration papers. We recommend all potbellied pigs are registered for the purposes of permanent record and as definitive proof of pedigree. For more information concerning the potbellied pig, please feel free to contact us at 22819 Stanton Road, Lakeville, IN 46536 or (219)784-2989. We have a wide variety of information on file to help answer any questions you may have, as well as an extensive list of specialists from whom you can learn more. Thank you for your time and consideration. Betty Bee an PPRSI President • BB/jrd ZONING LETTER Z 013