Rudy was a young, giant Yorkshire who weighed over 800 pounds. He had some strange neurological issues his whole life. When we took him into the University of Tennessee to have his declining mobility evaluated, the options were nonexistent. We consulted the New Bolton Center extensively, but his size was a limiting factor in any diagnostics. Add to the equation that Rudy hated the trailer, so we couldn’t in good conscience load him up for any other hospital without a rock solid plan for what they could do.
Rudy soon experienced a steep decline in his mobility. His left hind end just quit working. We had been lifting him for the bathroom…for water…for meals…and for his final swamp.
Rudy’s last moments were in a place that was safe and warm. He had a flood of visitors to say goodbye. He had a belly full of sweet treats. He had no fear. No frustration. He was clean and dry. His needs were all met. And we gently eased him past the finish line at home with the help of the vet…no need to ride in the scary trailer again.
Rudy escaped his early fate as a “production” pig and instead became a valued member of our family who was treated with the utmost respect and kindness. His personality and zest for life were characteristic of every single pig we’ve ever met…and there have been a lot. His gentleness and ability to communicate were something we see in every one of them. Rudy was the KING of the MedBarn, and his presence will be very sorely missed by us all.