By Katie Terou
SYV Star Intern
A local woman who started a pig rescue in the valley nearly 30 years ago is now taking care of more than 100 of them.
No pig is too messy for Lil’ Orphan Hammies, which is a sanctuary for unwanted or neglected potbellied pigs. Valley resident Sue Parkinson began the effort in Solvang in 1992 in response to a fad of having the “tea-cup pigs” as pets, which resulted in many pigs being starved to keep them small.
In addition to these neglected and malnourished pigs, Parkinson also rescues pigs from animal control and abuse cases.
“There is no such thing as a micro/mini/tea-cup pig. There are only starved pigs,” said Parkinson in her annual newsletter.
Parkinson rescues pigs from a variety of situations. Her sanctuary spans five acres, and the pigs are able to roam the entire area. She has also built housing structures for shade and shelter. On hot days, the pigs make themselves mud baths to cool off.
Lil’ Orphan Hammies cares for elderly, infirm, or unadoptable pigs and provides permanent respite for them; other pigs are adopted out to qualified new homes. Since its humble beginning, Lil’ Orphan Hammies has arranged adoption or secured rescue for more than 1,000 potbellied pigs.
“These pigs aren’t penned,” said Parkinson. “Their whole life isn’t just sitting around waiting for a meal. I let them do what they want.”
Parkinson has one employee who helps her run Lil Orphan Hammies. She works a full-time job and spends her time at home taking care of the pigs. From feeding and filling water bowls to raking and maintaining the infrastructure, there is lots to do on the farm.
Since its humble beginning, Lil’ Orphan Hammies has arranged adoption or secured rescue for more than 1,000 potbellied pigs.l o“It’s a never-ending job,” she said.
Parkinson has ties to several other pig rescues throughout the country. In recent years, she has become good friends with Diane Warren, a songwriter who operates a pig rescue in Southern California. The pair help each other find pigs to rescue from bad situations.
Lil’ Orphan Hammies also participates in several educational programs, including school visits and educating current or prospective owners on how to properly take care of their pigs.
To learn more about Lil’ Orphan Hammies, visit www.lilorphanhammies.org.
