I'm very sorry you are going through this trauma, Gary, and hope most sincerely that you come through it okay.

The same thing nearly happened to me about 15 years ago, when where I live had a strict code for the number of pets you could have in a home. Like you, I was being reported by a neighbor. In my case, I think it was because I'd kept asking them when they would take their limping outdoor cat to the vet. I ended up taking their cat to the vet and paying for the surgery. When I found out they were reporting me for having 8 cats in my home (a 5 bed, 3 bath, family home that has loads of space for 8 cats), I asked the vet if he could help. He was very encouraging, saying that as far as he was concerned the cat I'd brought in was a stray with a week-old injury, fleas, worms, ear-mites, poor coat etc. It felt so very good to have someone on my side. So, I faced my neighbor and told them if they reported me, I'd report them for pet neglect and my vet would be an expert witness.

I didn't get a visit from Animal Control, but the neighbors retaliated by spreading rumors in the neighborhood that I stole other people's cats and had them all incarcerated in my home. I still remember the day that I was in my garage and about to do some gardening when a woman came storming up my drive shouting at me that I'd stolen her cat. She tried to force her way into my home and I had to stand in the doorway with my arms out telling her I'd charge her with assault if she touched me. I kept telling her that I had no desire to steal anyone's cat, I had my own to take care of, etc. She obviously believed the rumor more than what I said, but she left.

I remember that period very well as being a terrible one to live through. For one thing, the people accusing me were born-in-the-USA'ians and I'm a long-time resident alien so I knew they'd be believed rather than me. And then, to feel that my neighbors were not friends after all. I was anxious all the time, wondering if someone would call the authorities on me or if someone would break into my home while I was at work.

What an awful thing to happen right in the middle of your enjoyment of opening up your new porch! Please keep us posted so that we can offer our support.

It made me think of the old witch hunts.