Bertie & Jelly
Forum Donator 2024/25
When my daughter’s two piggies Bertie and Jelly moved in with me permanently in 2022, I was clear in my mind that these would be the last piggies as I’m getting on a bit. Sadly we lost little Jelly to lymphoma in Dec 22 and as Bertie was then only 4, I followed forum recommendations and fostered Hutchie with a view to him returning to rescue when Bert passed. Of course, I could never have returned him, foster or not. I loved him from the first minute. Now ironically little Hutchie has gone first and I have the same dilemma as countless others on this forum. I’ve read all the posts and all the brilliant guides and I’m struggling to make a decision. Bert is now 5.5, dominant and unneutered. I think I have 3 options: 1) rehome/retirement home 2) don’t stop the piggie cycle and foster/find a new mate 3) keep him alone.
* Rehome: I have spoken to the nearest recommended rescue who are full and sadly don’t see any realistic hope of finding him a home at his age.
* Retirement (like rehoming but you still own piggie and pay for care): I’ve been to visit a retirement home - lovely, caring owner, primary business is boarding so full and busy for the summer, plus accommodation and routine (and sows) would be very different - maybe harder to adapt for an older boy?
* Foster and return: no longer offered
* Keep him alone: I know piggies need companions
It has only been 48 hours and so far he is not pining like he obviously did when we lost Jelly although it is harder to tell if he’s depressed now - as an older chap he’s no longer very active. He’s eating, drinking and pooping and I’m monitoring his weight.
I know there is no easy answer but I’m wondering if I’ve got any other options that I could consider? I’m usually very decisive but I’m floundering
* Rehome: I have spoken to the nearest recommended rescue who are full and sadly don’t see any realistic hope of finding him a home at his age.
* Retirement (like rehoming but you still own piggie and pay for care): I’ve been to visit a retirement home - lovely, caring owner, primary business is boarding so full and busy for the summer, plus accommodation and routine (and sows) would be very different - maybe harder to adapt for an older boy?
* Foster and return: no longer offered
* Keep him alone: I know piggies need companions
It has only been 48 hours and so far he is not pining like he obviously did when we lost Jelly although it is harder to tell if he’s depressed now - as an older chap he’s no longer very active. He’s eating, drinking and pooping and I’m monitoring his weight.
I know there is no easy answer but I’m wondering if I’ve got any other options that I could consider? I’m usually very decisive but I’m floundering