"Pigs are one of the most misunderstood animals in the world," says Shannon Leguizamon, who owns a farm in Waverley that is home to Ralphy's Retreat Animal Sanctuary.
Ralphy's, a registered non-profit organization, is celebrating its third anniversary in Simcoe County. It is managed by a board of directors and run 100 per cent by volunteers.
There are 82 pigs in the sanctuary of 120 animals, that also include a pony, a donkey, cows, alpaca, goats, chickens, turkeys, rabbits and barn cats.
"People always ask me, 'Why pigs?' When you come and meet them, they are so smart. They are smarter than dogs. They are easily trainable. They can walk on a leash or be litter-box trained in days," says Leguizamon, who manages the sanctuary.
"They are very sensitive animals. They cry real tears. They are loyal and very manipulative," she adds.
There are not many places that can accommodate pot-bellied pigs and other farm animals in need, says Leguizamon, who notes agencies like the OSPCA, bylaw and other animal welfare services turn to sanctuaries like Ralphy's for support.
Some of the pot-bellied pigs on the farm are not fond of winter and manipulate the volunteers to feed them in their insulated houses or to hand feed them, rather than eat outside from a trough.
The farm's oldest pig Spike was 21 when he died in January, after living under Leguizamon's care for 20 years.
"Our vet said she'd never seen a pig as old as Spike," Leguizamon said.
About 60 per cent of the animals at the farm have disabilities or complex medical needs and will remain at the farm for life.
To better help senior animals, Leguizamon is using funds raised from the gala in May toward renovating a small barn to create an animal hospice.
"We are lucky to have really good vet care. Many don't have access to veterinary care for pigs," she says.
Ralphy's gets veterinary care from North Simcoe Veterinary Services, which services farm animals.
Once, Leguizamon gets the hospice open, they will offer the space and medical assistance to other sanctuaries.
The sanctuary started in Tay Township with just a few volunteers. Now they have more than 40 volunteers doing everything from animal care to IT.
“We have amazing volunteers. We’ve had other organizations comment on the level of commitment and dedication that our volunteers show. Their love for the animals is unbelievable,” she says, noting the volunteers keep the sanctuary going like a "well oiled machine."
Ralphy's does not receive any government funding. It relies on donations and fundraising alone to keep the operation going.
One of the fundraisers is animal sponsorship. For as little as $10 a month, people can sponsor an animal of their choice. They receive a photo and description of the animal, get an annual update and get invited to sponsorship day.
"It's awesome. People can come and meet the animals and see where their money goes. All the money goes to the care and maintenance of the animals," Leguizamon said.
Education about pigs and other animals is important to Ralphy's. The sanctuary opens for group tours in the spring, summer and fall. In 2025, volunteers will be doing more outreach work, visiting schools and senior homes with ambassador pigs.
While Ralphy's is currently at full capacity, they can help to find other homes, arrange spays and neuters and promote education to better understand pigs.
