Sorry, the pet pig is a violation, judge says

Robb Calabro of Round Lake may have to part ways with a "beloved family member" pending the final outcome of a trial debating the village's prohibited animal code.

Calabro was surprised and saddened Tuesday after Judge Michael Betar found him guilty of possessing "swine" within the Round Lake village limits, fining him $150 in addition to six months of court supervision.

But for Calabro the worst part is the possibility of losing "Harley," the 70-pound Vietnamese potbellied pig he has owned as a "house pet" for nearly two years.

"I'm sad for Harley," Calabro said, holding back tears outside the Round Lake Beach courthouse. "Although several local communities have allowed ownership of Vietnamese potbellied pigs, the village of Round Lake refuses to consider that their definition of 'swine' may refer to farm pigs, not my pet."

Local municipalities that have legalized the ownership of Vietnamese pigs include Hainesville, Mundelein, Round Lake Beach and Waukegan.

Betar called the ordinances of surrounding communities "irrelevant" and cited a dictionary definition of "swine" in his decision, in which he said "swine" referred to all types of pig, regardless of whether they are livestock.

Calabro argued that the ordinance was likely written before the introduction of potbellied pigs to the U.S. in 1985. Since then, he said, they have gained acceptance as a trainable and intelligent pet suitable for his home and neighborhood.

Calabro can't take Harley for a walk without stopping traffic - literally. People pull over and often approach Calabro's leashed creature with open mouths. "Is that a pig?" they ask of the leashed pig with black and white fur.

"Harley is the talk of the town and people always huddle around him whenever he is out on the leash," Calabro said. "He is a neighborhood icon, a rock-star pet."

The litter box-trained pig likes the attention and will even perform some of his tricks to new people he meets during his walks, Calabro said.

Harley also drew the attention of a Round Lake police officer patrolling the Valley Lakes subdivision June 15. The officer observed a pig chained to the front porch.

To his chagrin, Calabro was issued a citation for violating Round Lake's prohibited animal ordinance. But instead of a slap on the wrist, Calabro saw the ticket as an opportunity to address what he felt was an outdated ordinance.

"This issue has evolved properly in other villages, including the one we're standing in right now," Calabro told the court, referring to Round Lake Beach's exception for Vietnamese pigs.

Betar responded that such information would be considered during the appeals process.

Calabro is considering several options, including an appeal. He has also spoken to farm owners in the area who could take the pig in.

"My facts were solid and I am truly disappointed with this decision," Calabro sighed. "Because of procedural hang-ups, Harley did not get his day in court."