Simba

In June 2025, local rescue organization Wayward Ranch closed after successfully finding homes for dozens of rescued animals. They were worried about placing a few closely bonded residents, including senior potbellies Simba and Pinocchio. Thanks to our amazing community, we were able to say yes to these best buds.

Before rescue, Simba had been purchased from a breeder, believed to be a "teacup" pig, a breed that does not really exist. When he grew larger than expected, his family listed him on a local Facebook group as "free to good home," and a greenhouse took him in hopes he would become a tourist attraction. He escaped the greenhouse often and then found himself living with a family who kept him in an extremely tiny and filthy pen, where he could barely move.

Sadly, this is the reality for so many potbelly pigs. After years of confusion and inconsistency, he finally made his way to sanctuary at Wayward Ranch. He had likely never even met another pig and struggled for some time to make friends. But when he was introduced to Pinocchio, the two bonded right away! The rescue saw an enormous change in his quality of life, and he was finally able to feel comfortable in his new home.

Simba was 10 years old when he arrived a Woodstock Farm Sanctuary. We knew we would need to introduce him to the property and people gradually because he is very sensitive to change. Having Pinocchio by his side helps to keep him calm though, and this boy cannot resist a snack (or a good belly rub)! He can be shy at first, but once he has bonded with someone and respects them, he turns into a sweetheart.

Though they may be in a new pasture now here at Woodstock Sanctuary, the two have really settled in because they still have each other. Little Simba began requesting scratches from our care team right away. He is alert, curious about his surroundings, and seems quite content in his forever home.