It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rosie, the first pig ever owned by our co-founders, Aaron and Christie Riddle.
Looking to get a pet for their young daughters at the time, the Riddle Family sought to find an animal that would teach their children how to properly care for and treat animals. They decided on getting a piglet, long before they were aware of how many adult pigs are in need of homes.
Purchasing Rosie as a piglet in August 2011, she quickly taught the Riddle Family how smart, emotional, and wonderful pig are! She spent many fun nights running around the family basement for fun as everyone laughed and enjoyed her companionship.
As time went by Rosie moved outside where she could truly be a pig. There she spent her days rooting in a large roomy pen with more pig friend pets that the Riddle Family gradually took in.
Because of Rosie, Aaron and Christie Riddle changed their perception about pigs, ultimately resulting in the founding of Piggins and Banks. Without Rosie, our sanctuary would not exist and all the pigs we have saved would have met much worse fates.
Since Piggins and Banks opened in 2020, Rosie served as a founding member and enjoyed cheerio treats and pets from our many visitors. She was always the last stop of the tour experience where everyone enjoyed petting her and giving her “behind the ear scratches”.
Sadly as she reached the age of 13, over the past year severe arthritis began to plague Rosie. After many months of treatment on daily pain medication at the discretion of our field vet, there was no more we could do as her movement began to eventually decrease further. Getting to the point where she could no longer stand on her own, the decision was made to peacefully and humanely euthanize Rosie on January 30, 2025.
Rosie will be cremated by All Pets Cremation Center in Winchester, VA and her ashes will be buried in our sanctuary memorial area known as Tulip’s Meadow.
Donations in Rosie’s honor will be accepted via our “Mick Memoriam Fund”, which covers final veterinary expenses and cremation services for our deceased residents. We thank you for your condolences and support.
Rest well sweet Rosie. We hope that you are reunited with your best friend Tuck on the other side of the rainbow bridge!
