Pet Owner Peeve

Published May 14, 2013

Although denying it “acted wrongly,” Grand Valley State University in Michigan has agreed to pay student Kendra Velzen $40,000 for refusing to allow Velzen to bring her “therapy guinea pig” into the school’s dining hall.

Velzen’s suit alleged she suffers from depression and that Blanca, her guinea pig, provides emotional support. The school ready had allowed Velzen to keep Blanca in her pet-free dorm.

Sources include: Taylor Berman, “Student Banned From Carrying Guinea Pig on College Campus Receives $40,000 Settlement,” Gawker.com, March 10, 2013. Earlier report in May 3, 2012, Lawsuit Abuse Fortnightly.