Community Rallying for Baby the Deer as Legal Drama Unfolds
In a heartbreaking twist that has captured the hearts of many, a two-year-old deer dubbed Baby, who was lovingly raised by Tammy Shiery of Fayette County, Pennsylvania, faces an uncertain fate after state authorities confiscated him. A community effort is now in full swing, as residents band together to advocate for Baby’s return. Founded on the premise that they rescued him as a fawn, Tammy claims that she treated Baby like family, even ensuring he received all required vaccinations typically administered on deer farms. However, Pennsylvania law is no friend to private wildlife enthusiasts; it strictly prohibits the keeping of deer born in the wild as pets.
Despite Shiery’s belief that she possessed the necessary paperwork, state officials did not agree, leading to a tense standoff when Game Commission officers arrived to seize Baby, resulting in Shiery’s arrest. As reported by CBS News, Baby has not yet been euthanized, which many in the community see as a silver lining amid turmoil. The Pennsylvania Game Commission confirmed that they were considering what to do next with Baby, and for now, he remains in their custody.
Adding fuel to the fire, a Change.org petition has surfaced, rallying support with passionate pleas to bring Baby back home. The petition claims that the local community has developed a deep bond with Baby, describing him as an almost “dog-like” companion due to his upbringing. Given that Pennsylvania has a significant deer population, petitioners argue that confiscating Baby poses no threat to public safety and is an act of unnecessary harshness.
Critics of the Game Commission’s actions draw parallels between Baby’s case and previous controversial incidents, like the tragic euthanasia of Peanut the squirrel in 2019, sparking outrage among animal lovers. This sentiment resonates with many who ascribe to the longer view that wildlife management should be conducted compassionately and sensibly, reflecting the community’s deep-rooted ties to these animals. As the petition continues to gain signatures, the debate over wildlife law enforcement in Pennsylvania remains a hot topic, with advocates urging a compassionate resolution to Baby’s plight before it’s too late.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, CBS News, Change.org
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