12 Massachusetts pigs are looking for a forever home
You can adopt them from the MSPCA at Nevins Farm.
Kids might be asking for a cat, dog, or even a pony this holiday season. How about a pig? The MSPCA at Nevins Farm is arranging for the adoption of 12 pigs, according to a statement by Rob Halpin, the MSPCA’s director of public relations.
One of those up for adoption is Willow, who lifts her head when you call her name and even cuddles the caretakers who clean her stall, according to the MSPCA. Willow’s previous owners overfed her and kept her almost exclusively indoors, so the potbelly pig is now 100 pounds overweight.
[fragment number=0]
Most of the pigs available for adoption are of the potbellied variety, so they’re not as huge as other farm hogs. Five of the pigs were surrendered by their owners during the past month, The Eagle-Tribune reported.
This high number could be a result of last year’s harsh winter, which increased the cost of caring for farm animals, and also because of misconceptions that a piglet is as easy to care for as a dog, barn manager Melissa Ghareeb said in the statement.
“Pigs are smart (many come when they’re called); they’re highly social—and make friends with each other and even other animals—and are relatively ‘easy keepers’ for those with experience caring for these wonderful animals,’’ Ghareeb said, though she did warn that they have different needs than other furry friends—mostly that they should never be kept exclusively indoors as pets.
Pigs need grassy outdoor space with a spot for mud in the summer months and a warm shelter for the winter, according to Ghareeb, as well as commercial pig-specific food.
Pigs can make entertaining pets—if you have the space. They can learn tricks, the Tribune reported, and even be walked with a leash and harness.
“If ever there was a time for Massachusetts families to consider taking in a pet pig,’’ Ghareeb said in the statement, “that time is now.’’
[fragment number=1]
To comment, please create a screen name in your profile
To comment, please verify your email address
Conversation
This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com