But at the same time he was making headlines, he was also facing another complaint – this time from States Housing.
Mr Symphorien, 81, lives in a States house in Courtil St Jacques. He currently shares his property with 31 pet rabbits. And the authorities said that was too many.
States Housing wrote to the retired former hospital laundry man to advise that he was in breach of its pet policy. But just as he worked to find a solution at Le Friquet, Mr Symphorien did not complain and is working to fall within the policy, again with the help of the GSPCA.
The policy states that tenants do not need to apply for approval to keep a small number of rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, rodents, reptiles, fish, and small caged birds not requiring an outdoor aviary.
Mr Symphorien said that when contacted he also learnt that animals had to be neutered and were not allowed to breed.
‘They didn’t know I had so many and came to have a look. They’ve been good to me. They asked how many I really need, and I said at least 12.’
It has been agreed that 19 of his pets will need to go to a new home, but he can keep them until they can find homes through the GSPCA’s rehoming scheme.
‘If I’m not allowed – I’m not allowed. It’s no problem really. I was going to cut down anyway, it’s getting a bit expensive,’ he said.
GSPCA manager Steve Byrne said such situations were always a challenge, but the shelter was there to help and he was confident they would find the rabbits a loving new home.
‘We actually rehome more rabbits than we do dogs and cats now,’ he said.
‘Every animal that comes into the rehoming scheme is unique, it could take a couple of days or years, but they are well-handled, well-socialised rabbits. Hopefully that will help.’
Tenancy manager Toby Brookfield said: ‘Our pet policy is all about encouraging responsible pet ownership, which the vast majority of tenants already display. In this particular instance, we’re really pleased to have found a solution that works for everyone and would like to thank the resident for working with us so cooperatively.’
Mr Symphorien and his rabbits can still be found at Le Friquet every Saturday, but now in a new location near the rear of the store. He said that the feedback since his story was told had been ‘brilliant’.
‘I never thought it would be like that. Everybody’s been telling me to carry on.’
He said he wanted to make it clear that Le Friquet had been very supportive of him and recognised that his rabbits were a well-loved addition to the store.
It had brought in the GSPCA, who had advised on the relocation, which will be reviewed next month.
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