A Porcine Gentleman That Won Our Hearts

An older pig, Phillip, came to Rescue Village many years ago through a humane investigations case. He got adopted, but then, in 2021, he came back to Rescue Village’s Barn as an owner surrender. Rescue Village works proactively with animal owners on pet surrenders all the time as part of our core work. At 14 years old, he was a senior porcine gentleman who needed to lose some serious weight and learn some social skills.

Rescue Village is an unlimited-stay humane society with a 98% live release rate, so this gave Phillip all the time he needed to find his new family. He also gets top medical care and all the blankets and other supplies he needs to keep warm and stay comfortable. Sometimes, on colder days, the only way you’ll know he’s in the barn is when he grunts beneath the giant pile of blankets he burrows under.

As Phillip waits, he has become a favorite resident among the staff, guests, and groups that tour and visit to Rescue Village. His personality has blossomed, and he truly enjoys meeting people, especially when they are giving him treats. Phillip has his own Rescue Village cartoon image that has been turned into a sticker. And, recently, several students chose to draw Phillip through a Berkshire Middle School art project with Rescue Village, using art to help promote animal adoptions. He has become quite the RV icon.

During our recent Donor Appreciation event, Phillip was the perfect host. He politely munched on carrots and popcorn, much to everyone’s delight, even though he left folks’ hands slightly slobbery.

Phillip receives regular veterinary care and as can be expected, has had some medical issues during his stay. The vet regularly monitors and treats sores that develop under his chin. Earlier this year, he began limping, so he was prescribed joint supplements. His hooves need regular care, and we keep his tusks trimmed.

Phillip is turning 17 years old soon and with a lifespan of 12-18 years, we know that perhaps Phillip has found his last and final forever home at Rescue Village, as it will take a very special adopter to take on all the care that an elderly pig like Phillip needs. Thanks to caring donors, we can continue to provide him with all the special care, love, and attention he deserves as long as it takes, just like we do with our dogs, cats, small critters, and other barn residents.