No pigs in the city: Vernon officials give Layla the boot

ToCoralee Carrier, 22, of Vernon, Layla, her petminiaturepig, is not a farmyard animal.

"She is my best friend," Carrier told CBC News. "I love her to death."

Carrier and Layla go for daily walks around town, and the pighelps Carrierdeal with the stress of daily life.

"She's just like a huge part of our familyand has been for over a year now," Carrier said

Laylaeven has a social media profileand has attracted more than 1,000 followers on Instagram.

Butcity officials aren't as fondof the 30-poundgrey pig that has been photographed splashing in Carrier's pink backyardkids' pool.

On Sunday, a bylaw officer knocked on Carrier's door and told her the pig had to go.

Pigs, no matter how small,are considered farm animals and aren't permitted on residential property, the officer told her.

Pig noise complaint

As well, a neighbour had complained about noise.Carrier was devastated.

"I immediately started crying."

She defended her pet, sayingLaylabarely makes any noise. "She is the quietest thing. If you pick her up she squeals a bit."

But a Vernonofficial told CBC thatpigs aren't allowed in the city, even if they're described as companion animals.

Farm animals can create odours and noise and grow large, said Clint Kanester, manager of protective services with the City of Vernon..

"A pig, whether they're small pigsor large pigs or whatever, they're still considered farm animals under the bylawand as such would be required to be on agricultural propertyas opposed to residential.

Carrier said she plans to appeal the order ordering her to get rid of her pig. She says shewill ask city council to exempt Layla from the bylaw. Last year, council granted an exemption to the owner of a pot-bellied pig.

She said she's nervous and scared.

"I'm just going to be so heartbroken if they don't see that she is my baby and not a farm animal."

Meanwhile, Carrier said she's applying to have Kayla certified as a therapy pig because of her calming impact.