According to WTSP.com, A resident of Paradise Lakes Resort in Lutz, Florida, where clothing is optional, has filed a discrimination lawsuit after she was notified that her guide dog was no longer welcome.
Sharon Fowler, 43, who is legally blind, relies on her guide dog Laura to get around. She has had the black Lab for two and a half years, and got the animal through Southeastern Guide Dogs.
“I can be anywhere in Paradise Lakes and tell Laura to take me home and she will take me home,” Fowler told WTSP News.
In 2012, management claimed Fowler’s dog exceeded the 25-pound weight limit and was no longer allowed on the premises. She claims she filled out and submitted all the appropriate paperwork regarding the animal.
“They said Laura was too big to be here, that she was out of control,” Fowler says, “and she had to be moved off the property or we would be fined $50 a day.
“I was in tears, I was being degraded, it was the most horrible experience I’ve ever had.”
Undaunted, Fowler fought back with a discrimination lawsuit filed by law firm Morgan & Morgan against Paradise Lakes Condominium Association, claiming their action is a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Fair Housing Act. She is asking for monetary damages for mental anguish.
Management at Paradise Lakes Resort has no comment, citing the pending litigation.
“I don’t want anyone who has a service dog like I do to ever be treated the way I’ve been treated,” Fowler says.
