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A family is comprised of loving members who provide companionship, reassurance, and care. Families care deeply about the welfare of each individual, and when tragedy strikes one member, the entire family feels the impact. Despite her diagnosis of
a serious illness, Tina’s first concern was for the wellbeing of her family. What would happen to her beloved pot-bellied pig, Bella?
Shortly after her diagnosis, Tina began searching for Bella’s new forever home. Tina had been in and out of the hospital for treatment and was unable to care for Bella, but she wanted her to feel loved, safe, and secure. During this difficult time, Tina thought only of her loving little family.
At Pasado’s, we cherish the relationships that we have with our feathered, hoofed, or furry family members. We know that our animals form strong bonds with us, relying on us not only for food and shelter, but for love and friendship, as well. This week, we provided a warm welcome for Bella, but it was a bittersweet occasion. Bella bid a sad farewell to Tina, calling out for her as she drove off
without her. Anyone who doubts that animals experience emotions, make deep connections with their humans, or mourn their loss, would have had those doubts silenced on this day.
Bella and Tina |
We cannot imagine the difficulty of this choice or pain of “goodbye,” but we are inspired by Tina’s courage and compassion, and we envision a bright future for Bella. While we are saddened by the circumstances surrounding Bella’s arrival, we are also happy to help Tina in this unfortunate situation.
Bella has lived in a home her entire life. She is house-trained and politely oinks at the door when she needs to go to the bathroom. She has been around dogs her entire life and loves rooting around in the yard. At night, she enjoys falling asleep in front of the crackling fireplace, her contented grunts filling the room. While we know that forming a new family takes time, patience, and adjustment, we can’t wait to hear Bella’s joyful little grunts.
Potbellied pigs like Bella originated in the Orient centuries ago and they are wonderful pets: they have virtually no body odor and they are exceptionally intelligent. Cognitive tests have compared their intelligence levels with dolphins and apes, making them one of the most intelligent domesticated companion animals. With proper care, they usually live for about 15 years, and Bella should have many happy and healthy years ahead here on the farm.
Pasado’s Safe Haven is so happy to help Tina
in this unfortunate situation. The last
thing we would want her to worry about is
Bella’s well-being. We hope that Bella’s new
temporary home at the Pasado's Sanctuary
helps Tina focus on her own health and find
peace with this happy ending, and we hope
that Bella will soon find her foster or
forever home.
With the death of a parent, there is a
“safety net” for human orphans: a legal
system with protective laws, an official
foster system, and a network of people,
including friends, family, and aid workers.
For animal family members, though, there is
no such safety net, and there is the
distinct chance that animals who lose their
families will also lose their options. But
your donation can help us continue to
“catch” animals who would otherwise fall
through the cracks. Your support can provide
options for loving families – and ensure
that these sweet lives are saved.
Thank you, from all of the animals here at Pasado’s Safe Haven.
(don't forget
to ask your employer
to match your donation)
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