Ernie was raised on a pig farm. The fences were inadequate and he would often break free to forage on sweet grass and roots in the shade and quiet of the surrounding fields. One day his adventures brought him to the edge of the road, a busy highway, a few miles from The Gentle Barn. A concerned neighbor feared for his safety and called us for help. We were able to catch Ernie with another pig we named Bert and bring them home to the safety of The Gentle Barn. We later got permission from the overwhelmed owner to keep them.

Ernie was very scared of humans and seemed like he had been through some rough times. He was blind in one eye and was very defensive. He seemed like before we found him, he had to fight his way through every day just to survive. We got Ernie seen by a veterinarian right away, got him neutered, and his eye treated. We have kept him warm in the winter, fed well, and given treats, and with daily human companionship by our staff and volunteers, he has started to relax and trust people. We have not been able to pet him yet, and still have a long way to go, but he is well on his way to a happy, healthy life. Ernie and Bert are always together and will spend the rest of their lives at The Gentle Barn feeling safe, loved, and protected.