Local Couple: Pigs Are Pets, Not Livestock
PITTSBURGH (NewsRadio 1020 KDKA) – A couple aspiring to live in Cranberry Township was told they could only move in if they get rid of their pet pig, Nola.
Chris and Lauren Miladinovich lost their bid on a Cranberry home because the Homeowners Association didn't want a pig living in their neighborhood.
The Miladinovich family recognizes Nola as a household pet while the HOA sees the pig as livestock. The couple and the Realtor pleaded Nola's case that she was a friendly, fun-loving, Miniature Juliana pig.
"I think she's just like a cat," said Chris. "When she's in her own element, she's like leave me alone."
But other times, "She's very cuddly, on your lap in blankets on the couch," said Lauren.
Chris is allergic to dogs and cats, so they got Nola a couple years ago from Florida after being on waiting list.
"She's like our baby. She's like our little child," said Lauren. The couple even takes Nola for walks in their current neighborhood with a harness and leash.
The association claims they are looking out for the best interest of the 93-home plan's residents, whose property value could decrease due to the pig.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the 43-pound pig is a registered household pet.
Lauren and Chris both agreed, while talking with KDKA Radio host Mike Pintek, that children and adults of all ages love Nola when they meet her. Lauren explains that they even put a harness on her and take her on walks around the neighborhood.
Nola is house-trained like a dog. Chris said she will rub up against your legs or she'll stand at the front door to alert the family that she needs to go out. Nola even sleeps with pillows and blankets like a typical pet.
The couple went door-to-door and was successful at receiving 11 out of 11 residents' yes votes, but the Homeowners Association asked them to stop, so they did. Now, they're really looking to find out what the serious problem is behind having Nola.
They have asked numerous times to sit down and talk with the board to find out what the problem is, but have been unsuccessful. They are confused since the members of the community they spoke with didn't mind the pig, but the board did.
"We've just been flat out told, 'No, no pigs allowed in this community. We don't want to meet and discuss, it's not going to change the answer,'" Chris said.
"I definitely think dogs are more intrusive. She's very quiet, doesn't bark, keeps to herself," said Lauren.
Reluctantly, they backed out of their dream home deal, and it's now been sold to someone else.
KDKA-TV contacted the president of the homeowners's association but has not gotten a response yet.
(Photo by Joern Pollex/Getty Images)
RELATED LINKS:
More From NewsRadio 1020 KDKA
Like NewsRadio 1020 KDKA On Facebook
Follow NewsRadio 1020 KDKA On Twitter
