Spate of Winter Adoptions Created Space at the Barn, But New Arrivals Continue Unabated
BOSTON and Methuen, Mass., Feb. 29, 2016 – While animal advocates across the U.S. prepare to mark National Pig Day on March 1—a day that since 1972 has accorded the pig “its rightful, though generally unrecognized, place as one of man’s most intellectual and domesticated animals”—the MSPCA-Nevins Farm in Methuen is hoping adopters will step forward to take home one or some of the 11 pigs currently bunking down in the barn, the organization announced today.
The Nevins Farm team issued an urgent call to adopt in December, prompted by the plight of Willow, a loveable and social pig surrendered nearly 100 pounds overweight. That call resulted in six pig adoptions in the months that followed, including Willow, who has since settled into a wonderful new home on the South shore.
But the cyclical nature of adoptions and surrenders continues apace, and since the start of the year Nevins Farm has taken in seven more pigs, bringing the current population to 11, some of whom survived harrowing journeys just to make it to the farm.
“Mike” and “Ruben” Trade Cape Beaches for Methuen Pines
Mike and Ruben, three-month-old potbellied pigs were surrendered to the MSPCA-Cape Cod adoption center in Centerville on Feb. 20 after their previous owner could no longer care for the bonded pair, who were living outside without adequate shelter. They arrived on the farm soon after, cold but with their friendly demeanors intact. And staffers are hopeful the coming spring will see them placed in a permanent home.
An Indoor Pig No Longer
Six-month-old potbellied pig “Jax” was living in a tiny apartment in Central Massachusetts until he grow too large to comfortably live inside. Fortunately his previous owner brought Jax to the farm, from which he will be placed into a more suitable home, with plenty of outdoor space to roam. The Nevins Farm team advocates strongly against keeping pigs as indoor pets as their large size and rooting instincts can cause significant property damage –and an indoor environment provides none of the natural stimulation these endlessly curious animals crave.
Jax is joined in the barn by “Jimmy,” another pig kept exclusively indoors in a home in Western Massachusetts before his previous owners surrendered him to the MSPCA. Jimmy is also available for adoption and seeks a more appropriate outdoor property to call home.
Cold Snap Nearly Claims Two Lives
The recent sub-zero cold spell proved miserable for “Patriot” and “Pretty Girl,” a bonded pair living in North Central Mass. The pigs lacked adequate outdoor shelter and were surrendered voluntarily on Feb. 12 by their previous owner. According to staffers the pigs were shivering as they dashed off the truck and tucked right into the warmth of the barn at Nevins Farm, where they have remained since.
Pigs as Pets
Pigs generally require outdoor space with grass and mud to roll around in during the hot summer months. Just as important, they need covered shelter, such as a barn or shed, for colder months. Pigs are omnivores and do well on commercial pig-specific foods and should always have access to clean drinking water.
Celebrating National Pig Day
In addition to highlighting adoption the MSPCA-Nevins Farm team will be celebrating National Pig Day with a special pig-themed edition of Little Bookworms Story Time on March 4, followed by a visit to the pig barn so children can offer fresh fruits and vegetables to the resident pigs.
The Nevins Farm team hopes more adopters will celebrate National Pig Day by adopting one or more pigs. For more information about pig adoption at the MSPCA readers can click here.
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The MSPCA-Angell is a national and international leader in animal protection and veterinary medicine and provides direct hands-on care for thousands of animals each year. Founded in 1868, it is the second-oldest humane society in the United States. Services include animal protection and adoption, advocacy, humane education, law enforcement, and world-class veterinary care. The MSPCA-Angell is a private, non-profit organization. It does not receive any government funding nor is it funded or operated by any national humane organization. The MSPCA-Angell relies solely on the support and contributions of individuals who care about animals. Please visit www.mspca.org.
