Rescued farm pigs in sanctuaries require specialist care addressing their complex social, physical, and behavioural needs. High standards are essential for genuine welfare improvement.
Pigs in rescue settings face welfare challenges from their previous history of intensive production, including hoof overgrowth, social behavioural deficits, and chronic pain from untreated injuries. Quality sanctuaries provide deep straw bedding, outdoor rooting areas, species-appropriate social groups, and specialist veterinary care. Cognitive enrichment including foraging tasks and novel objects supports the mental welfare of highly intelligent pigs. Regular welfare audits ensure sanctuary standards genuinely exceed production conditions.