From "Teacup" to Treasure: Meeting Piglia

Every rescue story has a hero—or in Piglia's case, a whole team of them. Her journey to Blue Iris Farm didn't start with us, but rather with a wandering piglet, a compassionate neighbor, and a community that refused to look the other way.

A Campus Surprise

It all began when a tiny piglet was found wandering the UConn campus. Animal Control was called, but the situation was precarious; they knew that if the piglet remained unclaimed and was found to be ill, she faced the threat of being euthanized.

That’s when Megan Rock, a local animal lover in Mansfield, received the call. Though she isn't a rescue, Animal Control knew she had a farm and a heart for animals. Megan agreed to take the piglet in as a short-term foster to keep her safe.

The Search for a Home

Megan didn't just provide a roof over Piglia’s head; she became her advocate. She took Piglia for necessary vetting and covered those bills herself, ensuring the piglet was healthy and ready for her next chapter.

During those first few days, the "backstory" began to emerge. A UConn student eventually contacted Animal Control to claim her, stating she had "gotten out." The story told to officials was that she had been purchased as a "teacup pig" from a farmer in Litchfield—a common and often heartbreaking narrative in the world of pig ownership. While we may never know the exact details of where she came from, the outcome was the same: she was officially surrendered, and she needed a permanent place to land.

Recognizing that Piglia needed a long-term rescue placement, Megan reached out to us here at Blue Iris Farm. We knew we had to help.

The Ultimate Social Butterfly

If you’ve visited the farm lately, you know the barnyard is a busy place. It’s home to ducks, geese, our horse, and our mini goats. Introducing a new personality into that mix can be tricky, but Piglia didn’t just join the group—she took charge of it.

She has become the resident "agent of chaos," running around and causing just enough mischief to keep everyone on their toes. But her biggest impact has been on her fellow pigs, Grump and Pebbles.

The Great Peacemaker

Before Piglia, Pebbles was our resident troublemaker—a bit aloof and hard to win over. But Piglia has a way of breaking down walls. Since her arrival, Pebbles has become noticeably friendlier.

The most beautiful part of the day is at nightfall. When the sun goes down and the barn gets quiet, you’ll find Piglia right where she belongs: tucked snugly between Grump and Pebbles. She’s the literal "ham" in the sandwich, providing a bridge of companionship that has made our small barnyard family tighter than ever.

Why Rescue Matters

Piglia’s story started with a Craigslist ad and an owner who wasn't prepared, but it ends with a life of dignity, snacks, and two best friends to sleep next to. Every time you support Blue Iris Farm, you’re helping us say "yes" to animals like Piglia—the ones who were "lost" but are now very much found.

Come say hi to Piglia next time you’re at the farm—just watch out for her mischief!

How You Can Help

Piglia’s journey was made possible by the quick thinking of Megan Rock and the ongoing support of the Blue Iris Farm community. Your donations allow us to say "yes" when the call comes in for an animal in need.

https://givebutter.com/rEKGLf