Why pigs are being abandoned in local PA parks

NOCKAMIXON TOWNSHIP, Pa. — For the second time this month, a pig was found abandoned at Nockamixon State Park.

On Thursday, Aug. 21, rangers discovered the animal wandering near the fishing pier. After several hours and multiple attempts, park staff were able to corral the pig with the help of a humane trap loaned by the Upper Bucks SPCA.

The pig was transported to the SPCA’s Quakertown shelter, where it is now recovering under medical care.

“The pig had been shot with tasers, so it had to go to a farm animal veterinarian to be put under anesthesia and have those removed,” said Linda Reider, executive director of the Upper Bucks SPCA. “The pig is now on antibiotics and pain control for recovering from having those removed.”

Reider said the animal is not yet available for adoption but will be once its treatment is complete.

This case follows a similar incident earlier this month, when another pig was found at the same park and brought to the shelter. Reider said the unusual circumstances raise concerns that pigs may be deliberately abandoned in the park.

“To have two show up so close together at the same park, we are concerned that perhaps someone is abandoning pigs, like, turning them loose,” she said.

Park officials warn that abandoning animals in state parks is both illegal and dangerous. Domestic and farm animals left in the wild face injury, illness and starvation. Their presence can also endanger park staff, visitors and local wildlife.

“Parks are not good places to deposit unwanted animals,” Nockamixon park officials said in a Facebook post. “Thankfully, through the tireless efforts of local organizations, there are alternatives to abandoning intelligent, gentle creatures to an uncertain fate.”

The Upper Bucks SPCA, which houses not only dogs and cats but also farm animals such as goats, pigs and roosters, works to provide alternatives for owners who can no longer care for their animals.

“People give up animals sometimes because they’re unable to care for them,” Reider said. “We know why people give up dogs and cats … it’s the same with farm animals. We want the public to know we take care of not only domestic pets, but also farm animals that come to us.”

Reider encouraged those interested in adoption — whether for a pet or a farm animal — to visit the SPCA’s website.

“Our animals are all guaranteed, and same-day adoption is usually possible,” she said. “We have on-site veterinarians, so they get their medical care before going home.”