Wilbur RIP
Animal Stories from All-Creatures.org

FROM Animal Place
June 2019

It is with deep sadness that I share the passing of beloved pig resident Wilbur.

It is with deep sadness that I share the passing of beloved pig resident Wilbur. Wilbur was soulful. He loved belly rubs and sweet potatoes. He was a sanctuary favorite for many staff, volunteers, and visitors.

I am grateful to have known Wilbur. He soaked up all the love we offered him in terms of belly rubs, massages, pineapples and cooked yams. I miss him profoundly – his smiles, distinct grunting greetings . . . just his entire being. Wilbur had a powerful presence.

“He had a marvelously expressive face and a wonderful assortment of grunts and we would have some good conversations. He was extremely observant and he would make me laugh with his mischievous sidelong glances. A week before he died I lay down in front of him and his eyes held a tenderness and tiredness I had never seen before. I felt so lucky to just be with him.He was loved by so many and lovingly taken care of at his wonderful Animal Place home.”
- Alida, Volunteer

“I first met Wilbur on the day of his rescue. From the moment I laid eyes on him, I knew he was special. His eyes were so kind and his face so sweet.This winter Animal Care tucked Wilbur into bed each night. He received heated disks and warm blankets to keep him cozy. We each had our own ritual when it came to bed time. I watched as caregivers tucked him in, said good night and made sure he felt loved. My ritual was to sing “Good Night My Love” (the first verse) to him while I tucked him in. I am so grateful for the time he was able to spend at Animal Place. It was a joy and a privilege to care for him. I really miss him.”
- Michelle Miller, Animal Care Manager 

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