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GENERAL INFORMATION |
| PIGS IN GENERAL:
Unfortunately the porcine population gets a bad "rap", due the antiquated ideas of those that are not well informed and have not had the opportunity to spend time with these special animals. Pigs are clean, intelligent and very social animals. They are only as dirty as their environment They do indeed roll in mud, but they perform this activity to keep themselves from becoming over-heated, as they do not sweat. This also provides them protection from the sun as well as assists in deterring interested insects. They are quite fastidious and do not "dirty" their living areas. Pigs are smarter than dogs and are easily trained. Many know their names and respond when called. They are inquisitive, very social and love interacting within their groups as well as humans. They are partial to having their bellies rubbed and will "flop" onto their sides to experience this pleasure. Pigs are not known for their eyesight but have "snouts" that are exceptionally sensitive to smell and quite powerful. They love to "root" in the soil and will spend hours doing so. Unfortunately the majority of the pig population does not have the opportunity to live as pets, or even at sanctuaries. Most are doomed to be scalded alive in order to become food for those that would rather have pork on the table. Female pigs in the pork industry live in deplorable conditions and are confined to furrowing crates, which don't even allow them the luxury of being able to "turn around". It is regrettable that these sensitive and intellectual animals endure such a fate. Many people do no understand that potbellied pigs are part of the "food chain", as most think of them as pets. While they do make good pets for some, many end up at auctions and slaughter houses and become sausage. There are those that raise them for this purpose. They are considered livestock by the USDA although pet pig owners disagree. STANDARD OF CARE: All residents are provided with the appropriate feed, medical care and housing. They are cherished and respected, as they should be. I don't run this sanctuary. They do. I am here to cater to their needs. Incoming animals are checked by a veterinarian and placed in a 30-day quarantine. After that time, they are moved to the most desirable location befitting their need. STAFF: There are NO PAID staff memnbers. There are occasional volunteers. EDUCATION: The sanctuary is in the process of establishing an educational out-reach program for children. The program will focus on the responsibility and commitment that is required to be an animal owner. First aid for animals will be included, as well as direct interaction and a classroom forum. Alternative eating habits will also be addressed...only as an option for those that truly want to make a difference. NETWORKING: Serenity Springs Sanctuary is also dedicated to saving all species of animals that are in need. If there is no room here, or if it is an animal that is not considered appropriate, other suitable organizations are contacted. There are numerous rescue operations and sanctuaries that participate in this endeavor. They must, however, be "no-kill" facilities. SANCTUARY FUNDING: Serenity Springs is funded by donations, and all proceeds are allocated for the direct care of the animals . Extraneous expenses are paid "out of pocket". This can include building, labor, maintenance, etc. SPONSORING: This is an opportunity that allows people to "sponsor" an animal on a monthly/yearly basis. In return, the sponsor will receive a certificate, and a picture of the sponsored animal. The sponsor's name will be placed on the sanctuary web site along with the appropriate animal. Due to the large number of animals that reside here, not all of them are pictured. |