From Silence to Shelter—Willie’s Story

Before we ask for help, we need to tell you how Willie came into our lives—because this is what rescue really looks like.

While I (Gina) was on vacation in Texas, I was scrolling through Facebook and came across an anonymous post in a pig group about a 10-month-old piglet. As I read through the comments, I realized… he was in Philly.

I immediately tried to comment, but since I wasn’t in the group yet, my comment wasn’t visible. At the same time, Meghan had already jumped in—commenting and even making a post on her own page trying to connect us.

Then, Jeninne worked her magic and pulled all of us into a group chat with the current owner.

We learned his story:
🐷 Saved from a bad situation
🐷 10 months old
🐷 Sweet, indoor piggy
🐷 Not neutered
🐷 Only in the home for 5 weeks

But then—another turn. The owner shared she had just found out she was pregnant and couldn’t take on the responsibility. We immediately stepped in and offered help. I even offered to foster him myself.

She asked us to hold off—her brother-in-law might take him.

We respected that.

But the next day… silence.

We followed up, knowing how quickly pigs can end up in the wrong hands despite the best intentions.

Then suddenly—Meghan alerts us:
A pig had been surrendered to a Philly shelter.

The moment I saw the photos, I said:
“Wait a minute… I know this pig.”

It was Wilbur.

He had been taken to a kill shelter—without giving us the chance to help, even though we were ready.

Thankfully, the shelter reached out to Meghan for placement—and of course, we said YES.

Larry stepped up immediately to pick him up.

Now safe, Wilbur has a new name: Willie—because this is his fresh start. 💛

But rescue doesn’t end at saving a life—it’s just the beginning.

Right now, Willie is traveling to safety. Our incredible volunteer Kim Lynch is preparing an indoor foster space and getting everything ready for him to decompress and start healing.

✨ THIS is rescue:
A team across states
Acting fast
Working together
Saving a life that could have been lost

Now, we need your help.

💔 Willie still needs:
✔️ Neuter surgery
✔️ Full vetting
✔️ Vaccinations

I only commit to fostering when I know we can fully vet a pig and set them up for success in their forever home—and we’re asking our community to help us make that possible for Willie.

🙏 Please consider donating, sharing, and being part of Willie’s journey.

Every dollar brings him closer to the life he deserves.

I can’t wait to meet him when I get home—and tell him how many people showed up to save him.

💛 Donate today. Save a life. Be part of the rescue.