After three decades together, the owner challenges the seizure of emotional support alligator
In an unprecedented case of a human-reptile bond, Tony Cavallaro of Hamburg, New York, is battling to reclaim his 34-year-old pet alligator, Albert, seized by conservation officers due to a lapse in licensing. Described by Cavallaro as a gentle giant, Albert was taken from his custom-built home enclosure, leading to a widespread social media campaign for his return.
Over three decades ago, Cavallaro acquired Albert as a two-month-old alligator from an Ohio reptile show, nurturing him into the 12-foot, 750-pound creature he is today. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), however, cited the expiration of Cavallaro’s license in 2021 and violations of the rules concerning dangerous animals as grounds for Albert’s removal.
Cavallaro, 64, insists Albert poses no threat, highlighting his tame nature and the unique bond they share, including interactions with family and friends who’ve petted and even swam with the alligator. The loss of Albert has left a void in Cavallaro’s life and home, prompting him to hire a lawyer and garner support from neighbours and online advocates. An online petition has attracted over 120,000 signatures, alongside the creation of “Free Albert” merchandise and a dedicated song to support the cause.
The DEC’s decision to seize Albert was based on updated regulations for owning dangerous animals, which Cavallaro argues should not apply to him retroactively. He contends that Albert, an “emotional support animal,” is well cared for, disputing claims about the alligator’s health issues and asserting that his specialized enclosure was designed with Albert’s needs in mind, including heated floors and a spa jet-equipped pond.
Cavallaro’s fight for Albert is rooted in a lifelong fascination with reptiles, emphasizing his commitment to understanding and caring for such creatures. The case raises questions about the ownership of exotic pets, regulatory compliance, and the depth of human-animal relationships.
As the campaign to “Free Albert” gains momentum, the outcome remains uncertain, with the DEC maintaining that Albert is now under the care of a licensed caretaker until a permanent solution is found. Cavallaro remains hopeful, determined to prove that his lifelong companion belongs at home with him
