Sundance was one of a very elderly little herd of KuneKunes who lived in the Cabin Houses. He was a very independent spirit who was thrilled last year when we started him on the morning “med sammie” routine. He had previously been very uninterested in interacting with most of us, but a daily peanut butter treat cured him of his generalized misanthropy.
When Sundance went into the hospital for a decreased appetite, the doctors immediately commented on how extensive his arthritis looked. We chose not to do extensive testing to spare him from being poked and prodded, but rather just did a general checkup and blood work. He was sent back home to resume his Sanctuary Babe life to the best of his ability. But soon after, he again lost interest in food and started refusing to come out of his house.
It’s often very clear to us when elderly animals are ready to be done, and that was the case with Sundance. We all agreed that he was too uncomfortable to push him, and we took him into the hospital for humane euthanasia related to his extreme arthritis. Sundance is survived by his brother, Butch, and his best friends, Toot and Puddles. He was a respected and beloved member of the Cabin House Neighborhood,before it was cool to live in the Cabin Houses.
Sundance was one of the Tennessee original pigs, and he’s seen a LOT of change here over the many years he’s lived. He saw the dawn of awnings and roads and twice-a-day feedings. He saw the installation of neighborhood swamps shaded by Sycamore trees and a water station right outside his house. He saw the birth of a vaccinated, healthy herd of family members who are all spayed and neutered. Daily caregivers. Pumpkin delivery service. Insulated houses. And a safe ride to the hospital when he needed it.
We are proud of the elder care we provide for sanctuary residents like Sundance. And while he is sorely missed, we’re grateful to have known him, and grateful for the chance to meet his needs all the way to the end.