Why Pigs?
"A pig resembles a saint in that he is more honored after death than during his lifetime."
- Irma S Rombauer.
Most people ask us, why pigs?
People often understand why dogs and cats need rescue, but many have never considered what happens when a pet pig loses its home.
Pigs are intelligent, emotional, and deeply social animals. They form close bonds, recognize the people and animals they love, communicate with one another, enjoy affection, and have distinct personalities. They experience happiness, fear, loneliness, and grief—and they need companionship, enrichment, proper nutrition, veterinary care, and a safe place to call home.
Unfortunately, pigs are also among the most misunderstood companion animals.
-
“Mini” does not mean tiny. Many pigs advertised as “teacup,” “micro,” or “miniature” are expected to remain unusually small. In reality, a healthy adult pet pig can weigh well over 100 pounds. When pigs grow larger than promised, many families feel unprepared and begin searching for somewhere else to send them.
-
Finding a new home is extremely difficult. Most animal shelters cannot accommodate pigs, and reputable sanctuaries are already overwhelmed. Safe, knowledgeable homes with appropriate zoning, shelter, fencing, and resources are limited.
-
Pigs require specialized care. They need a properly balanced diet, regular hoof and veterinary care, secure outdoor space, protection from extreme weather, companionship, and daily mental stimulation. Without the right care, they can develop serious health or behavioral problems.
-
Zoning frequently forces pigs from their homes. Some families bring home a pig without realizing that livestock is prohibited where they live. Even a deeply loved and well-cared-for pig may suddenly need placement after a zoning complaint.
-
Rehoming is emotionally difficult for them. Pigs develop strong attachments to their families, routines, homes, and animal companions. Losing everything familiar can be frightening and deeply stressful.
-
There are far more pigs in need than safe places available. Every unnecessary purchase from a breeder adds to a crisis that rescues and sanctuaries are already struggling to manage.
Why Our Work Matters
At Clover’s Pig Preserve, we provide rescued pigs with safety, stability, companionship, and lifelong care. We also help pigs beyond our gates through transportation, placement assistance, networking, and public education. Our goal is not only to rescue pigs after something goes wrong. We want to prevent displacement in the first place by helping people understand the realities of pig guardianship before bringing one home.
We help pigs because they are sentient individuals whose lives matter—and because, once they lose their homes, there are very few places for them to go.
If you are considering welcoming a pig into your family, please contact us first. We are always happy to provide honest information about their size, care, costs, zoning requirements, and lifelong needs.