Eighth annual Piggypalooza will benefit the care of potbellied pigs up for adoption at Ross Mill Farm
By Samantha Bambino
The Times
Everybody deserves a loving home. Even those who find pleasure rolling in mud.
On Saturday, June 16, Bucks County’s Ross Mill Farm will host its eighth annual Piggypalooza, an “oinking” good time featuring a variety of family-friendly activities. All proceeds will benefit the care and support of more than 100 pigs at the farm, all of whom are up for adoption as household companion pets.
From noon to 6 p.m. at the scenic 278-year-old farm, guests can enjoy a variety of vegan foods, items for sale from vendors, raffles and live entertainment from six musical acts. Returning bands include the Blue Wave Ramblers, Morrow and Ford and Jason Brown, who is doubling as Piggypalooza’s emcee. New to the stage are Stephen DiJosephs, Tye Dye Hillbilly Dance Party and Wizard. All of the musicians are donating their time to the cause.
Of course, Piggypalooza wouldn’t be complete without meeting the resident pigs of Ross Mill Farm. Attendees can enjoy a live painting demonstration from a few piggy-Picassos, who will create one-of-a-kind masterpieces by rolling around on plastic-covered canvases sprinkled with paint. The pieces will be available for purchase afterward.
Proceeds from Piggypalooza will assist Ross Mill Farm, as well as the nonprofit organization Pig Placement Network, in their efforts dedicated to potbellied pigs. The nonprofit was co-founded by “head hog” Susan Armstrong Magidson and her late husband, Richard, in 1999 with a multi-tiered mission — to promote domesticated pigs as pets; provide education to pet pig owners, veterinarians, shelters and the general public; and to work with animal shelters, humane societies and pet pig owners to rescue unwanted, abused or abandoned pet pigs and place them into new, loving homes.
A key part of the Pig Placement Network is its massive, online database, which spotlights pigs from across the country looking for their forever homes.
“We let people know your pig is available,” Armstrong Magidson said.
For local adoptable pigs, Ross Mill Farm (co-owned by Armstrong Magidson) is the largest of the organization’s foster care facilities, with more than 100 pigs in its care, including ones that permanently reside there as well as short-term and long-term boarders.
The farm is open from noon to 3 p.m. daily, during which visitors are able to visit the pigs and learn more about adoption requirements. According to Armstrong Magidson, the Pig Placement Network is very particular about the homes its animals are adopted into. An all-too-common issue is that people commit before having all of the facts.
“Be sure you’re educated,” she said.
For example, many believe “teacup” pigs will forever remain small enough to be carried in a purse. In reality, they can grow to between 80 and 160 pounds depending on genetics. Armstrong Magidson also stressed a certain type of home is required to safely house this type of animal. While a pig owner doesn’t need to live on a farm, she said they should have a small, private outdoor space with grass.
In addition to adoption services and foster care, Ross Mill Farm operates an online store that sells potbelly pig food, harnesses and treats. On-site offerings include veterinary services, consultations, grooming and the pickup and delivery of adoptable pigs.
Attendees at Piggypalooza will have the chance to learn everything there is to know about being a pig owner. If it’s something they’re seriously considering, Armstrong Magidson encourages them to come back for a second visit after they’ve had time to think about it. Rather than make a spontaneous decision they’ll regret later, she wants their new pig to be a beloved companion for years to come. ••
If you go: Piggypalooza will take place Saturday, June 16, from noon to 6 p.m. at Ross Mill Farm, 2464 Walton Road in Rushland. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at eventbrite.com/o/ross-mill-farm-6412234627. Cost is $15 for adults. Tickets will also be available at the gate for $20 per adult, $5 for children 12 and under. Kids under 3 are free. Free parking will be located at Zachary Lane/Rushland Road, and a free shuttle service will be running all day. For more information, call 215–322–1539 or visit rossmillfarm.com.
Samantha Bambino can be reached at [email protected]
