Wesleyville mobile home Park residents fight back against new pet policy

Residents of the Wesleyville Mobile Home Community are speaking out against a controversial new pet policy that many say threatens their homes—and their families.

Under the policy, tenants are now limited to just two domesticated pets per household and are required to register their animals through an online payment portal that costs more than $20, plus an additional $20 per pet each month.

“I’m not getting rid of my animals—it’s like getting rid of a kid,” said Maria Martell.

The rule change has sparked outrage across the park. Tenants say they’re being forced to choose between their beloved pets and the place they call home.

“People are gonna wind up being evicted, losing their home because of the way corporate is being,” Shana Losey.

According to the policy, residents who violate the pet limit have six months to comply by removing the animal. A second violation could result in eviction.

“I would definitely choose my dog over this old trailer,” said Shana Losey, who added that the rule feels especially unfair because "many residents own their mobile homes but only lease the lot."

Anthony Stregtten, who owns a pet bunny, says his animal is more than just a pet—it’s a source of healing and emotional support.

“I can’t get rid of him. It’ll kill me,” he said. “I had open-heart surgery at the age of 33 back in October, and this dude helped me get through so much.”

Rosemarie Varhola, the former park manager, says she’s devastated by the change. She currently cares for eight rescue cats, many of which she says were found and saved from within the very park now telling her to give them up.

“We rescued them from this park,” she said. “And now they’re telling us to throw them away.”

Like many residents, Varhola says she" won’t abandon what she considers part of her family."

Attempts to contact the park's owners, Discover Properties LLC, for comment have so far been unsuccessful.