By Natalie Derrickson
Pigs are among the most intelligent yet misunderstood animals, and sadly, they are often left out of the traditional animal rescue circle.
It’s hard not to love a pig, but many pig adorers realize too late that pig ownership requires more training, patience, and preparedness than initially anticipated. That’s why rescues like Oinking Acres Farm Rescue and Sanctuary fill a massive gap in caring for pigs who become displaced, mainly due to owner unpreparedness.
“Pigs are the third smartest animal on the planet. To put that into a more tangible perspective, dogs rank around number 12,” said Olivia Head, the founder and president of Oinking Acres. “However, despite their hyper-intelligence, heightened awareness, sentience, and disarming charm, they are some of the most misunderstood and exploited animals on earth. That prompted me to establish Oinking Acres and what continues to propel our mission today.”
Open on weekends through November, Oinking Acres encourages visitors to observe and enjoy the sanctuary while remaining considerate of the animals’ histories. Calm, gentle petting of the animals is welcomed, but respect for them and the space they now call home is paramount. The rescue generally reopens for visitors when the weather improves, but Oinking Acres regularly hosts events, including their annual Christmas Fundraiser, Bring a Pig a Present.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour with a $10 per person donation, which is best suited for those over age six. Younger children are welcome but must be carried for their safety, as strollers and wagons are prohibited.
“We encourage people to visit if they are able, to have an opportunity to see what we do firsthand and to really connect with our animals,” shared Head. “The animals we serve fall into an enormous welfare gap, and the more exposure people have to these incredible animals, the easier it is to see that they deserve love and protection and that their lives are every bit as valuable as their other domestic counterparts.”
Visit Oinking Acres’ rescue animals at 8420 N County Road 650 E, Brownsburg, IN 46112, or check out their events calendar at oinkingacres.org.
NATALIE DERRICKSON is a freelancer from Indianapolis.
