We said goodbye to one of our pigs, Miss Rosie.
Rosie was estimated to be around 10–13 years old and was one of three pigs living here at the farm. Her sister, Petal, sadly passed away a few years ago due to ovarian cancer, which is unfortunately very common in female pigs as they age.
About a year ago, Rosie had developed ovarian cancer. She had been on a medication during this time to help manage inflammation and keep her comfortable.
During a veterinary visit to check on the pigs, we performed an ultrasound on Rosie after noticing that she had begun eating more slowly. When the ultrasound was performed, both the Vet and the Farmers were shocked to see how far the cancer had progressed.
We made the very difficult decision to let Rosie go. Letting animals go is never an easy decision, and it never truly gets easier with time. However, we know Rosie was deeply loved and well cared for, and we chose to let her go while she was still comfortable rather than wait until the cancer caused her any pain.
Sadly, this type of cancer is very common in female pigs that are not spayed. Many pet pigs are spayed when they are younger to help prevent this later in life. Rosie and her sisters were too old for the surgery to be safely performed when they came into our care.
Rosie’s sister, Petunia, thankfully had no signs of the same development. However, given her age and the fact that both of her sisters have passed from this condition, we will continue to monitor her closely.
Wilson, who is not related to the sisters, is living with Petunia to keep each other company.
We will miss Rosie and her sweet face and personality very much.
Rest easy, Rosie. You’re with your sister again. ❤️
