Ventura County Couple Loses Bid To Keep 5 Potbellied Pigs

VENTURA (AP) — The Ventura County Planning Commission says pigs aren't pets.

The Ventura County Star says commissioners voted Thursday against allowing a La Conchita couple to keep five potbellied pigs. County law considers them farm animals and bars them from the beach community.

Jeff and Stephanie Rowland — with their pig Muta in tow — argued the pigs are doctor-certified therapy animals that provide emotional support.

Jeff Rowland says Muta even saved his life when he couldn't breathe during an allergy attack. He says the pig's squeals alerted his wife.

The commission previously said the Rowlands could keep one pig but the couple say all five — Muta, Pickle, Vinnie, Bubba and Sophie — are like family and can't be parted.

They plan to appeal to the county Board of Supervisors.

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