This little piggy went to the doctor, this little piggy had life-saving surgery, and this little piggy found the pig sanctuary and lived happily ever after!
Cullinan, South Africa (25 August 2023) – The Pigs ‘n’ Paws pig sanctuary has been doing some incredible work to take in rescued pigs over the years. Recently, they have been going above and beyond to make sure their piggies get the best healthcare around!
Pigs ‘n’ Paws took in their first pig in 2004. The pig had been purchased as a piglet and was meant to be a family pet but it never stopped growing and before long, needed the space it deserved, on a farm. Many city by-laws also prohibit the keeping of pigs in residential areas so those pigs eventually end up at the pig sanctuary too.
Today, the sanctuary is home to many pigs both rescued or rehomed. Each one is loved and has a name. Many have been happy healthy pigs but a few have had health concerns and whenever possible, the team has been dedicated to getting them the care they need.
So much so, that several of the pigs have had “world-first” surgeries, performed by local vets, to save their lives.
“5 years ago one of our pigs, Winston Jefferson shattered his vertebrae and became paralyzed. After much searching for a suitable vet, a huge back surgery was performed (the first of its kind in the world) and Winston had loads of Titanium put into his back. It took lots of Physio and patience and after 8 months he could walk all over the place.”
“A few weeks ago we arranged for another piggy, Pezi to have the very first brain surgery on a pig, right here at Ondestepoort after one of our Pigs became ill. An MRI showed that he had a brain lesion that caused the fluid on his brain to accumulate. Causing pressure that made him unable to walk properly and keep balance and also caused his eyesight to go.”
“The vet team placed a permanent shunt into his brain to drain the fluid and release the pressure. Within 5 days post op he was able to walk almost normally again and enjoy his life as he had before.”
“Pigs are the 5th most intelligent animal in the world. They are absolutely incredible to spend time with.”
The team are caring for around 300 pigs and welcomes volunteers to spend time with them, drop off tasty scraps or make donations.
You can find out more about the organisation via the website here or Facebook here.
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