Man sues to bask in the buff with his dog

updated 3:17 p.m. ET July 14, 2006

CENTRAL ISLIP, N.Y. - A nude sunbather is suing for the right to bask in the buff with his rat terrier, Cheekies, at his side.

New Yorker Mark DelCore says he needs full sun exposure for a skin condition he links to World Trade Center toxins. And he says he needs Cheekies with him because he suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder.

DelCore likes to do his sunbathing on a “clothing optional” beach on Fire Island. Officials at the Fire Island National Seashore say he’s welcome — but his dog isn’t. The park allows only guide dogs on its swimming beaches.

DelCore’s lawsuit argues that his dog’s healing presence qualifies Cheekies as a “service dog.”

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