Plutarch was a sweet old man who had been in sanctuary since he fell off a transport truck nearly ten years ago when he was just a baby. He was a American Yorkshire–a large “production” breed used for meat, selectively bred by humans to grow unnaturally large in a very short period of time.
Consequently, arthritis is an extremely common ailment in these large pigs. Plutarch suffered from pretty severe arthritis and we did everything we could for him. There is just no fix for these giant, aging bodies.
Plutarch was a very respected resident of the Old Guys Neighborhood. He assumed prime napping spots in his house and no one ever challenged him for his daily medication–usually delivered in his preferred apple! He never met a stranger and liked to have conversations with his human visitors. Plutarch was one of the most quietly charming and distinguished pigs we’ve ever met. Being his friend this last part of his life has been an absolute joy.
Walking him home was an honor beyond description. It’s an HONOR to walk them home in the peace and safety of their sanctuary. Plutarch passed peacefully, surrounded by his family. He was loved. He was respected. He was valued. See you on the other side, friend.
