Disputes over whether exotic animals, such as chickens, can constitute pets under restrictive covenants are becoming increasingly common. In Nemeth v DiGirolamo, unpublished opinion of the Court of Appeals, issued March 12, 2025 (Docket No. 366595), 2025 WL 796149, the Michigan Court of Appeals considered whether four cows and a ram constituted “pets” under the deed restrictions. The case also examined whether using off-road vehicles to feed and water those animals violated the covenants and whether the owners unlawfully built a fence and shelter without approval from the homeowners association.   Read the article…………………………….