The yearly Pigapalooza adoption event will feature over 20 potential piggy pals this year, all looking for loving homes.
The recurring event from the Asheville Humane Society waives all adoption fees – normally $30 – for pigs in their care. Pigapalooza will take place June 28 and 29 from 12-6 p.m. at the Buncombe County Farm, 61 Clover Lane in Swannanoa.
A news release from the AHS said that pigs are often surrendered after their owners could no longer care for them, or were surprised by the reality of how large pigs grow. Though many may believe that “teacup pigs” are a pocket-sized alternative to the classic barnyard hog, miniature pigs do not actually exist.
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The release said that most of the pigs currently at the farm are potbelly mixes that can grow to be between 50-250 pounds. Though mini pigs aren’t real, the AHS said that being a fantastic pig parent is still well within the realm of possibility for many.
“With the appropriate space, knowledge, and time, anyone can be a fantastic pig parent,” the news release said. “Pigs are notorious for being the most intelligent of the barnyard animals and are eager to socialize amongst humans and pigs alike.”
An ideal pig parent, according to the AHS release, will live on a farm or in a home with fenced-in land. Pig parents should also understand that pigs engage in activities such as rooting, and require certain financial obligations dog and cat parents don’t have to worry about – hoof and tusk trimming, for example.
Male pigs adopted from the AHS have all been neutered. Interested adopters must provide their own transportation for the pigs and be approved by adoption counselors. To see all of the pigs available for adoption, visit ashevillehumane.org/adopt/barnyard-adoption.
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Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Pigapalooza pig adoption event held by Asheville Humane Society
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