CLINTON, Ark — A national craze of owning mini pigs swept the nation a couple of years ago. Now, we are seeing the aftermath, and it's sad.
Clinton resident Christa Cossey got a pig less than a year go, and that soon opened her eyes to a problem that she felt compelled to address.
"Breeders that let things get out of hand. Then they didn't know what to do. Then, they had more pigs than they could feed, and they were starving to death," said Cossey.
In December, she began her non-profit Green Acres Mini Pig Rescue and the work started immediately.
"The night I got my Facebook page ready to go, and the very next morning we were full," said Cossey.
The rescue is currently at full capacity and has taken in more than twenty pigs.
If you are thinking of owning a mini pig, Cossey has some advice because these animals can live up to be 20 years old.
"The main thing is: know that a mini pig is anything under 300 lbs," said Cossey.
"Most breeders are misconceiving people and will say, 'oh, it will only get to 50 pounds.' This is not true."
She says pigs are also naturally curious, so if you keep them indoors to make sure they can't get into your drawers and cabinets.
Cossey also says pigs are very intelligent, so they can be litter box trained.
Green Acres Mini Pig Rescue is looking for donations and volunteers. Click here to learn more information about how you can help.