CHARLIE IS CURRENTLY IN TRAINING TO BECOME A THERAPY PIG
FairyTail Acres Chris and Tom Hainley began their dream of owning a farm in the fall of 2010. What started as a farm with a couple of goats became a quaint country setting with many goats, a pony, dogs, cats, chickens, and, eventually, pigs. They are something Chris dreamed of owning for a long time.
tricks. Her youngest, Charlie, knows the most. He stands on a step stool, goes through a tunnel, does weave poles, runs over a teeter totter, plays a piano, paints, spins in circles, bows, waves, and is currently in training to moon walk. In general, a pig can be taught a trick in as little as a week with daily 15-20 minute training sessions.
“I always wanted a pig,” she said. “I can’t explain why… there is just something about them. They are so unique compared to other animals I’ve owned. In August it will be four years since I got my first one. Currently, I have 16, most of whom are rescues.”
Many of Chris’ pigs live in her home with her, hogging the couch, begging for supper, and providing plenty of company and comfort to her. “They are very sensitive and loving pets, which they often don't get credit for.”
While Chris keeps the majority of them at home, she knew others would benefit from the same joy they bring to her life. Thus began her therapy journey. “My first therapy pig, Harley, has been a huge hit everywhere we take her. Pigs provide happiness to people and bring something different into their lives. They are animals you don’t see every day, and for individuals who cannot get around, getting to visit a pig is a great form of therapy.”
Are Pigs for You?
Many qualities make them excellent therapy animals, but there are also many qualities that cause them to end up in rescues. Due to the increasing popularity of pigs and the lack of knowledge new owners have, there is a need for rescue and rehoming. Because of this, Chris is also in the process of forming her non-profit, FairyTail Acres the Rescue. Through rescue work, Chris hopes to train more therapy pigs and get pig ambassadors out into the public to not only brighten people’s lives but to teach people about their good and challenging qualities.
The Beauty of Pigs “When most people think of pigs, they think of farm hogs. Those hogs are often left dirty and are on diets that promote the smells people associate them with. Pet pigs, when fed a proper, healthy diet, are very clean animals with minimal smell,” Chris explained. “My pigs are cleaner than my dogs.” They are brilliant animals that can learn a variety of commands and behaviors. “They love to please you and enjoy doing what makes you happy. Pigs are also highly food motivated, which is a huge help with training,” Chris said. All of her house pigs are potty trained, and several know a variety of 10 LANCASTER COUNTY PET
“I cannot stress enough that while I love pigs, they certainly aren’t for everyone. A lot of work and training has to go into them to make them ideal pets, and they are all individuals. Not every pig is going to be social or enjoy doing tricks, so you have to love them for who they decide to be.” There are many care aspects that people must keep in mind if they are thinking about getting a pet pig. Vet care is specialized, which costs more and is difficult to find. They are on the cognitive level of a 4-year-old child, which can get them into trouble because they are too smart for their own good at times. They can be stubborn, and if you don’t set boundaries, they can become aggressive. Because of this, consistent training is a must to avoid an unruly pig. Additionally, you must consider if your home is suited for a pig. Zoning is a problem for a lot of people since they are considered livestock. “You also have to realize they are not small pets, even if they are advertised to be ‘micro’ sized. The reality is, tiny piglets will grow a lot, usually to over 50 pounds,” Chris explained. “They need room to roam, and if you have a pristine yard, you should realize they will destroy it.” For those who are confident they are ready for the commitment of owning a pet pig, they make wonderful pets for the right families. Do plenty of research, as one can never be over prepared for a new family member. “I know how special and intelligent pigs are, and I understand why people would want one if they know what they are getting into,” Chris said. “I love my pigs, and my heart will always be with pigs.”