We have some really difficult news to share about our sweet Tesla. She almost certainly has metastatic cancer, most likely a blood vessel type such as hemangiosarcoma. Because of how quickly the mass has grown and how much blood it is taking up (and the likelihood of other masses present internally in her body), our vet felt it would not be safe to anesthetize her for a biopsy. This means we cannot know with absolute certainty, but the prognosis is not good.

Even so, we are not without hope. Tesla has started on an experimental dose of a common antibiotic that has shown anti-cancer properties for this type of cancer. Whether it is the medicine or the daily banana she happily eats it with (and perhaps both), we have seen an improvement. Her appetite is better, her energy is brighter, and her Tesla personality has been shining through. She has been asking for extra cuddles, stealing the dog’s food again, and filling the house with her unique spark.

Right now, her vet does not believe she is in any pain, and our focus is on making her life as wonderful and comfortable as possible. She gets special cuddles at night in bed with us, and receives extra treats of course.  We are so thankful we are the lucky ones who get to spend her life with her.  

Quincy’s toe amputation surgery was a success, and our brave boy is already back to strutting around the sanctuary in his special shoe! Nothing keeps him down for long. He has reclaimed his role as Commander in Chief, with Sherman faithfully patrolling at his side as his number two in command. The Puffalumps all clearly look up to Quincy, and we can't get over how cute he is with his little "mini me" beside him.  

At the same time, we this is just one step in the process. The toe on his other foot has not improved and remains painful. Quincy will be returning to Stahl’s for regular IV antibiotic infusion treatments, either weekly or every other week depending on how his body responds. These treatments are our best hope of saving this toe and sparing him from another amputation. His culture results showed that the infection is resistant to most common antibiotics, which means he has to receive a stronger medication that can be hard on his body. There is also the option of systemic antibiotics, but we are holding off for now because of the difficult side effects.

Even with all of this, Quincy carries himself with the same pride and determination that he always has. He keeps watch over the sanctuary with his steady presence, reminding us daily of his resilience and his desire to protect his family.  We will protect him too.  
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If you have a moment, please drop a kind word for our Commander in Chief. 

Quincy isn’t just a turkey: he’s one of the founding family members of Life With Pigs. He came to us as a tiny baby and quickly grew into the heart and protector of our sanctuary family.
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From the very beginning, Quincy seemed to know his purpose. He proudly struts around the sanctuary, chest puffed up, following visitors everywhere they go. But despite his big, confident presence, Quincy is the gentlest of souls. He loves nothing more than nibbling blueberries, curiously peeking through windows to see what we’re up to, and making sure every animal (and every human) feels safe under his watchful eye.

For years, he has self-appointed himself as the protector of everyone here. Whether it’s keeping an eye on new rescues or greeting school groups on tours, Quincy has always been the one watching over the family. He is a constant reminder that turkeys are not only intelligent and social, but deeply compassionate beings with unique personalities and bonds.

Tesla is one of the most resilient souls at Life With Pigs. This gentle rabbit, who loves exploring cozy corners and nibbling her favorite greens, and who is one of the only animals who is every brave enough to steal food from the pigs, has already overcome more than most animals ever face.
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Last year, Tesla underwent a major surgery to remove one of her ears after a severe infection revealed something more serious: cancer. It was a difficult ordeal, but Tesla pulled through bravely, adapting quickly and showing us once again the incredible strength of animals when they are given love and care.

Tia has always wanted to be a mom. She sat on empty nests, with a heart full of hope, year after year.  Finally, we were able to rescue some poults for her to care for.  The first was a beautiful little girl named Suzy, who came earlier this year.  
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But Tia faced an unimaginable loss when her beloved Suzy passed away. In the weeks that followed, she tried to connect with the Puffalumps, but something never quite clicked. Though she longed for companionship, she seemed unable to find the bond she was searching for and was still grieving the loss of her daughter.

Why? Because apparently, everyone is “busy.” Huck had a “medical emergency.” Mallory had plans to make, ensuring Huck’s recovery.  The sanctuary had “so much going on.” Excuses.

Jenna has responded with grace, of course. By which we mean, she’s banged her horns on the house window every time someone dared to cuddle a pig or, heaven forbid, talk sweetly to Maisie.  At one point, she followed the pigs right up to the back door, locked eyes with Ryan, and mooed in fluent passive aggression.

To her credit, Jenna has also been very patient. She has waited nearly 47 whole seconds at a time before demanding someone pet her. And she only tried to chase the sheep off twice this week, which is a clear sign of growth.

But let’s be honest. Jenna will not rest until balance is restored. Until she is once again the sun, and we are all just happy little planets orbiting her.

And don’t worry, Jenna. The love, praise, and worship you deserve are coming. We hear your demands. We accept your terms.
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Because truthfully.... we wouldn’t have it any other way.