6/5/13 - A Genesee County couple is continuing their fight with the DNR to keep the pet deer theyâve raised since birth. Lilly was one of two fawns born after her mother was hit and killed by car five years ago. She was rescued by the couple from the side of the road and has since become a part of the family. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division got involved after receiving a complaint the animal was being kept as a pet. Officers say there are public safety concerns and itâs illegal for the couple to keep Lilly, so she must be rehabilitated back into the wild or be put down. Since Lilly was born in the wild and not in captivity, state laws make placing her more difficult. A licensed wildlife rehabilitator with Wild Oat Rescue in Fenton Township told MLive.com she was unable to take in Lilly because of her size and the length of time she has lived with the couple, saying she should have been released years ago. The DNR is reportedly working with the coupleâs attorney to find a new home for Lilly, whether it be a farm licensed to handle wildlife, a rehabilitation facility or a petting zoo. An online petition to save Lilly and let the family keep her is circulating and a link is posted below. Meanwhile, anyone who might have a good home for Lilly is asked to call 248-359-9040. (JM)
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