At the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, a five-month-old potbellied pig named Helga has been winning over the staff and her caretakers with her gentle personality and her adorable baby snorts. Animal Control found her on Monday and brought her to the rescue for veterinarian care.
she horrifically had a piece of metal shoved in her snout to try to stop her from rooting…like pigs are supposed to do!
The purpose of metal (usually nose rings) is to prevent pigs from rooting and digging. The ring causes pain when their snouts rub against the ground, and thus the pigs are discouraged or stopped from their natural behaviors. There is no doubt among most veterinarians that the ring in a pig’s snout is inhumane, causes pain and can become infected.
Alternatives to using metal rings:
Spay and Neuter
Secure fencing
High fiber diet
Companionship
Shade and water
Space management
The animal welfare organization named her Helga and while she loved the belly rubs, it was noticeable how sad she was. Once the metal was removed from Helga’s snout, it was already quite apparent how comfortable and happier she seemed. She is on her way to a complete recovery.
With any animal, pigs require specialized care so please do your research on their requirements to ensure you are ready with the right space, food, enrichment, medical care, etc., and understand their natural personality for the 15-18 year average lifespan.
If interested in meeting Helga, please click here.
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