In a wildlife sanctuary east of Wetaskiwinlives a potbellied pig named Gordo.
THE Farm animal rescue and rehousing movement (FARRM) welcomes surrendered and abandoned farm animals requiring specialized care.
Gordo suffers from a heart condition called endocarditis.
“He came in as a very, very small pig, very stunted, so we knew there were some form of underlying medical issues with him,” said Melissa Martell, owner of FARRM.
As he has very specific needs, Gordo must live alone.
“Not ideal for pot-bellied pigs, but it just shares the fences with others,” Martell said.
“It has different blanket and heat requirements than other pot-bellied pigs. He needs a very low dust environment because his heart is in a lot of pain, so any complications with his lungs or other organs put even more pressure on his heart – which for him could lead to death.
As a result, Gordo has a heated cabin filled with blankets instead of straw.
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About a year ago, an unusual camaraderie began to blossom between Gordo and another animal.
“I think their relationship obviously started because Gordo has the best house on the property – who doesn’t want to be a part of that?” Martell said.
Jade is a wild cat who appeared at the sanctuary one day.
She started hanging out at Gordo’s lavish lodge – probably out of necessity at first, but now by choice.
“They started sharing breakfast with each other – and if you know anything about pigs, you know they don’t share breakfast willingly, but Gordo always makes room for it in his dishes “, explained Martell.
At any time of the day you can find them curled up.
“She absolutely loves it and she has the ability to go wherever she wants – she’s not confined in any way,” Martell said.
She noted that there has also been a noticeable change in Jade’s temperament, who is now much less afraid of people.
“You can just see the change in her personality now that she’s a part of Gordo’s life and his space,” Martell said.
“It’s a totally different cat.”
Even though Gordo lives a good life at FARRM and receives the best care there, his medical situation keeps him quite isolated, so this unexpected connection is welcome.
“To see him have this relationship, have this companionship and have someone stay because he loves him too – it’s comforting for us, and it’s a sigh of relief for us too.”
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