“We primarily rescue cats, but we decided to help because the pigs needed us and animal control wasn’t having any luck.”

By Heather Osbourne | 315-4440 | @heatheronwfdn | hosbourne@nwfdailynews.com

MILTON — Animal Allies Florida is preparing to adopt out 12 abandoned pigs rescued in Milton.

Referred to as “The Avalon Mini Pigs,” Mamaw, Coal, Gabrielle, Gabe Petunia and Avalon were the first six pigs rescued on Avalon Boulevard by Animal Allies Florida in January after over 9 agencies failed to trap them in December.

“There were 13 pigs originally, but by the time we got there they have six,” said Sharyn Berg, founder of Animal Allies Florida. “We primarily rescue cats, but we decided to help because the pigs needed us and animal control wasn’t having any luck.”

Berg said she believes the pigs were part of a pig mill, where they were continuously bread for their piglets to be sold.

During the same time in January, volunteers received another call that 16 other pigs were abandoned in Milton near the Archie Glover Boat Ramp.

“There were three remaining by the time we got there,” Berg said.

Those pigs were named Daisy, Daphne and Tracie. The volunteers were out with the two sets of pigs every day from Jan. 15 until Feb. 7 until all of the pigs trusted the volunteers enough to be rescued, according to Berg.

“Mamaw was pregnant and she had three babies and Coal is going to have babies any day now,” Berg said. “So, right now we’re up to 12 pigs.”

The non-profit plans to auction off naming rights of the three piglets to raise money for their care.

Volunteers worked to construct pens for the pigs, made out of wooden pallets. They, and anyone else who wants to volunteer, are caring for them until they can all be spayed or neutered and then adopted.

All of the pigs are believed to be under 1-year old. Berg said the pigs can grow to an average of 150 pounds.

“They are super smart pigs,” Berg said. “Some are smarter than others. Mamaw and Daphne are the smartest two of the bunch. They all like to play with their toys.”

Interested in adopting, volunteering or donating to “The Avalon Mini Pigs”? Visit “Avalon Mini Pigs – Animal Allies Florida” on Facebook to learn more.