It’s that time again. Move over fall features – make room for Christmas paraphernalia. Enter Pumpkins for Pigs. Such a catchy title sent us on a search for the best place to dispose of your Jack-O-Lanterns and fall pumpkins. The idea was to research and report on the easiest ways to put used pumpkins to good use. Our first stop captured our hearts, so this story is all about a haven for rescue pigs and horses.
Are there any animal rights activists in the room? This story is especially for you! Shannon Trail in Pelzer is technically a private street. We almost didn’t drive down the gravel road because of the posted sign. Thankfully, we did.
Shannon Aroneck graciously welcomed us onto her property. Double A Farms is the result of Aroneck’s overwhelming passion for a pet pig. Pigs, horses, goats and dogs happily share the six acres that make up the farm. It was hard to wrap our minds around the concept of rescue pigs and horses. Everybody’s heard of rescue dogs and cats, but pigs? Where exactly do you rescue them? Shannon explained that her pigs come from all over the place. Fellow rescue groups provide transportation, or she’ll happily pick them up. We met one from West Virginia and one from Charlotte. Many families purchase cute micro pigs, not realizing they grow up to weigh hundreds of pounds. Hence the need for rescue! One pig came from a petting zoo and one of her horses came from a kill lot.
USDA laws require a life crop or ten acres to receive grants. Double A Farms’ animals are not for consumption, so the Aroneck’s do not receive financial help from anywhere. One notable element missing from this farm was a smell! We learned pigs roll in mud to regulate their body temperature and rid themselves of bugs. Their reputation for being dirty animals is not even a little bit true.
Did you know: Pumpkins can be used as a natural de-wormer for animals. When her pigs have stomach issues, Shannon buys natural pumpkin puree for them to eat.
Unlike other farms and businesses, Double A gladly accepts carved pumpkins. Shannon also shared the pigs need kiddie pools for play/baths plus straw and blankets for bedding. The horses need hay to eat.
Any and all donations will go a long way to help meet the needs of the rescues. Sidenote: They also take Christmas Trees. The goats eat the bark and it helps to de-worm them.
Double A Farms has a Facebook page where you’ll find all of the Aroneck’s contact information. You can read more about Pumpkins for Pigs here.