A heartbroken pet owner in Upstate New York is fighting to get his beloved pet back, just like anyone would who's had their pet taken away from them. The only problem is, his pet is an 11-foot, 750-pound alligator.
Tony Cavallaro has kept his gator, named Albert, in his backyard and allowed him to use the swimming pool for many years, but the New York Department of Environmental Conservation said Cavallaro was also allowing members of the public to get in the water to pet Albert, and that's why they recently seized the enormous animal "in the interest of public safety and the health, safety and protection of the alligator."
Albert is 30-years-old, blind, and has spinal issues. Cavallaro had previously held a permit for the gator, but it expired in 2021 and he never renewed it. Albert has been turned over to a licensed caregiver who will look after him until he can be transferred to a proper facility. Cavallaro, who could still face charges, has hired a lawyer and is trying to bring Albert home. (WIVB-TVÂ - Buffalo, NY)
Scott's Thoughts:
- New York just issues permits to keep a huge alligator at your home?
- If some guy in my neighborhood has an alligator in his pool and says it's OK to get in the water with it, I'm gonna pass!
- Exotic pets are one thing. But one that can eat you is another.