By Courtney Zubowski
Spring, TX (KHOU/CNN) - Pig or pet?
That was the question before a Texas judge in a battle between a family and its neighborhood HOA.
There were tears and hugs and a celebration with fruit and a belly rub. The pig wins.
Wilbur, a 70 pound Vietnamese pot bellied pig wasn't in court for the decision, so his owners rushed home to tell him about it.
"I bought some strawberries yesterday that's a special treat that he gets so he's going to get some strawberries," said Missy Sardo, Wilbur's owner.
It has been nearly a year-long battle for the Sardo family from Spring, Texas. Their pig versus the thicket at Cypresswood Homeowners' Association. The HOA called him livestock, which isn't permitted in their neighborhood. The Sardo family says he's a pet.
So the Sardo's took the case to court. The judge sided with them.
"It's like one of my kids. He's actually better sometimes than my kids, but no we love him very much and we would do anything for him," said Alex Sardo.
According to the Sardo's attorney, the decision speaks volumes not just for the Sardo's but also everyone who lives with an HOA.
"Sometimes associations go too far and this time we feel that they did and we're very pleased with the court's ruling today. I'm very happy I helped keep this family together," said attorney Mitchell Katine.
What started out as a present under a Christmas tree took this Spring family all the way to court.
It's been an emotional battle that's now over. This little piggy stays home.
KHOU/CNN