There is FEDERAL LAW which clearly prohibits what has occurred to the
woman who renovated her apartment and has Ferrets as Service Animals.
Defined by law service animals are NOT pets and CAN NOT LEGALLY be
denied admission to any public place, including "NO PETS ALLOWED"
housing.

http://www.jmls.edu/fairhousingcenter/Service-Animals.pdf

Page 5 of the above referenced article clearly states that ferrets can
be service animals, per the Department of Housing and Urban Development
and per the Department of Justice, Reasonable Accommodations Under the
Fair Housing Act (May 17, 2004). Also the law prohibits anyone asking
the person what their disability is and prohibits anyone asking for
proof of training of a service animal.

It would appear that the judge in this case is in violation of Federal
Law and this woman has grounds for not only an appeal but also a suit
against the landlord. Sadly the judge can not be sued, but the lady
could ask for a Judicial Hearing against the judge for misconduct and
maybe lack of impartiality... well her lawyer could.

<http://www.hud.gov/news/release.cfm?content=pr07-097.cfm>
similiar case in CT

<http://www.hud.gov/offices/fheo/library/LVHA-vca.pdf>
Page 6 of 35 NM

<http://www.huduser.org/Publications/pdf/fairhousing/fairintro.pdf>
page 5 (11 of 30) second column beginning line 3

Maybe we all need to write to the judge and landlord with proof of the
law included (copy of the law)... bombard them with info... Since there
is also a dog involved maybe the dog groups will help - ask them where
you are, I'll ask them here.

Vicki

Vicki Montgomery
Tricks and Treats Rescue Greater Houston/Galveston Texas
713-472-6599
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"Until he extends the circle of his compassion to all living things,
 man will not himself find peace." ~ Dr. Albert Schweitzer

[Posted in FML 5939]