Albert the Alligator, aged 34, has been a loyal companion to his owner for his entire life. Despite the unconventional nature of keeping an alligator as a pet, Albert has peacefully coexisted with his owner for decades without causing any harm. So why is there suddenly an issue now?
In Western New York, countless pets suffer from abuse and neglect, yet their plight often goes unnoticed. Albert, on the other hand, does not appear to be mistreated. His owner has devoted considerable time and effort to caring for him, even constructing an indoor enclosure to ensure his well-being. It's no small feat to care for a 750-pound alligator for 34 years.
While there may be limited understanding about alligators as pets, one thing is clear: any animal that has shared a bond with its human companion for over three decades deserves to live out its final years in familiar surroundings, where it feels safe and secure.
"The DEC and SPCA took Albert away from me saying that I put people in harm's way with him," said Albert's owner Tony Cavallaro. "Every one who has met Albert or knows Albert knows that this is not true. I took care of him better than most people take care of their kids. They changed the rules 2 years ago about what you need to do to have an Alligator. I've had him 34 years and abided by all of them and renewed my permit annually as required. I tried renewing it when they changed their rules and had questions to ask. They ignored my emails and phone calls to make sure I did everything right even though I should be grandfathered in. I will have a court date when they provide it."
A petition has been launched to support Albert the alligator's return to his owner. You can sign it here: Link to Petition