meet the pigs

Over the years, my sister, Suzanne, has searched for critters she believes would be ideal members of our family. She strongly suggested we look at Kune Kune pigs known for their gentle nature, curiosity and fierce intelligence. We found a breeder in Olympia, Washington, and travelled down to meet the piglets. We fell in love and have been enamoured with them ever since.

In 2016 we welcomed the first three little pigs, Finn (Galileo), Scarlett and Bernadette. The three pigs were already bonded and we decided to spread the love by breeding Bernadette and Finn. Seven wonderful male pigs arrived. We found loving homes for six of them and kept Indy. Two years later Bernadette gave birth to six more piglets, three of whom were sadly stillborn. Always difficult to send them off to adoptive families, we (meaning I) decided to keep Archie and Pippi.

It is beautiful to see these sentient beings grow strong bonds with each other and with our clients.

We love them all dearly and have decided not to breed again. Although only a few Kune Kunes were in Canada at the time we welcomed our first three, the population has grown to the point that they are ending up unwanted and in rescues. As we talk about the lives of our animal friends we also want to educate our human friends of the need for responsible and consent-based care. For more information, please take a look at our training programs.

Finn (Galileo) (March 2016 - August 2024)

In the beginning of our journey with Kune Kune pigs, we never intended to add a male pig to our herd. Then came Finn. At six months old, he followed Steve around at the breeders home in Olympia, Washington, as if asking to come home with us. How could we resist? His curious and playful nature along with his gentleness made him a client favourite. He loved being in the field and laying in the sun, human snuggles and belly rubs―you knew when you reached the right spot when he grunted with gratitude. His presence is deeply missed.

A pig with shaggy fur is lying on green grass in the sunshine, looking directly at the camera.

A black and white pig stands on grass near a wooden shed.

Bernadette (born in 2016)

While all pigs have a great sense of smell, Bernadette’s super power is her ability to scent food from far away. She never seems surprised when you approach her but with uber confidence, takes the opportunity for a cuddle or, more likely, food. She loves to talk and when hungry lets forth the loudest grunts you will ever hear. But what we love best about Bernadette is that with two litters of babies under her belt, she is a darn good momma.

Scarlett (born in 2016)

Scarlett is smaller than Bernadette but has an extra dose of wiles. Knowing Bernadettes love for food and size advantage she grabs her meals and runs away to eat in private. She has a big snore and, when sleepy, will sing songs if her belly is rubbed. Scarlette is very social and loves to search out human connection.

A pig with dark markings lays in a blue plastic pool outdoors on a sunny day, surrounded by grass and trees.

A pig with a bristly coat and black spots on its face and back, standing on grass with green foliage in the background.

Archie (born in 2020)

With his Elvis pompadour, Archie, is a sensitive and cuddly boy. And although he takes on the role of the Kune Kune peacekeeper―intervening in other pig’s squabbles― he tends to avoid things that cause him stress. He is a big boy with a big heart, so much like his dad, Finn.

Indy (born in 2018)

Indy (AKA Indiana Banana) loves attention, snuggles, belly rubs and more. He is sensitive and avoids confrontations and is known for his loving interactions with people and his pig herd. He was especially kind in his connection to his dad, Finn. When Finn’s arthritic pain and mobility issues took over, Indy would choose his nap times in order to be snuggled up against Finn. It was clear Indy experienced the sadness and loss of Finn. He spent the first few days finding quiet spots to rest away from other pigs and people. It’s a poignant story of how animals are more than capable of feeling grief.

A close-up of a pig with black and white markings standing on grass in a sunny outdoor setting. The pig has a blade of grass in its mouth.

Close-up image of a pig's face with a focus on its snout and fur. The pig's fur is light-colored, and its nose is visible. The background is grassy and sunlit.

Pippy (born in 2020)

Pippi earned her name from Pippi Longstocking with her red hair and adventurous nature. She required special care after developing pneumonia at 1 1⁄2 weeks old and has a special place in my heart from the time we spent time together while she was fighting infections. Fully-recovered Pippi loves to bravely explore new areas on the farm. She will often flop upon approach in anticipation of belly rubs….she succumbs to them, in fact.