So in preparation for the Appeal and hearing, and the seriousness of the consequences it was game time..... since Chance would not be able to "charm" them himself - cause we were seriously thinking of hiding him, we set forth to create a video as to HOW a Diaper Change is Done, Chance's routine.....
More impact statements came in as everyone was updated on the status of Chance. The letters from Professional's as well as the witness statement from Ann, were all readied for D Day.
Talk about not sleeping, and tearful cuddle time.... always trying to stay positive.....
I consulted an attorney friend, because I AM determined NOT to lose him!!!! I know Chance could sense our anxiety because Tuesday he was kind whiny.... not wanting anything but attention.
The Hearing was as interesting set up, it was in City Hall in a conference room. 6 Animal Advisory Board Members were present, as well as 3 cases that needed to be heard in that hour period.
Rey, Ann, Dan and I were ready with our additional evidence given my people who have a working relationship with Chance and a laptop loaded with video clips to actually show the Board what a wonder addition Chance is to our environment -
We got to go first - the appeal letter and subsequent evidence was handed out to the Board Members and they were given time to review. The facts were read by the city attorney, the Animal Control Officer made her statement, and Dan stated our legal platform, that Chance was provoked in part my distraction during the diaper change process and that he harmed the owner, and not a stranger.
Rey spoke and gave testimony as to how we got Chance, how old he is, that he is a member of the family and goes where ever we go to all our satellite clinics. Accommodations are available at each office for his housing. He was also asked if he considered Chance to be dangerous and has be bit before, NO.
Ann spoke recounting the event and that medical treatment was optional and sought for personal reasons and precautionary measures. She took full responsibility for not keeping control to the environment during the diaper change, which would have prevent the bite. She was also asked if she thought Chance was a Dangerous Animal - NO, and if he had bitten before - NO
Police Chief made the motion to dismiss the claim, due to the animal not running at large, injured it owner and was provoke in a sense. seconded my another member then it was open for discussion. Answer and question period: Which was not clarified at the hearing, the office had no patients in the waiting room during these events, one was in session with their therapist.
In a question by one member was the level of testing and training Chance has for being considered a Therapy Animal, monkey's are different than dogs.... both are intuitive however dogs don't have the fine motor skills monk's have.
There was no time for the board to view any of Chance's youtube video's I just hope that after the hearing they take the time -
The vote was 4 to approve the motion and 1 against with 1 abstaining.
To our Suprise the story made page 2 of the local paper> > > very acurately recounted as well.
The attorney received jokes from his friends "How does it feel to get a Monkey of Death Row?" to "are you defending an elephant tomorrow?" I'm glad it is all over with and we can get on with living. Chance could tell the change in tension in this parents!!!
Thank you to ALL for the Love Prayer and HUG's in helping us get thru this rocky road - -
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