Quincy Needs Life-Saving Surgery

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.

​A Shocking Diagnosis

Recently, Quincy began showing signs that something wasn’t right. After exams and X-rays, our veterinary team confirmed what we had feared: Quincy has septic arthritis, a painful and progressive joint infection that causes swelling, weakness, and difficulty moving.
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Septic arthritis is not something that will resolve on its own. Left untreated, it will worsen and rob Quincy of his ability to walk comfortably... and eventually his life.  

Our vets have told us the only path forward is surgery - and most likely a toe amputation.  But before taking that step, our avian specialist will attempt to save his toes through a combination of antibiotic infusion in one toe, and a surgical procedure to clean and repair the infected joint in the other.  This is scheduled for Friday, August 22nd.  

​This is a complex and expensive procedure, but it is Quincy’s only real chance at relief and survival. 
If it isn’t successful, the next step will be the amputation of his left toe. While this would likely cure the infection in that foot, it would place added strain on his other foot (which already has a weakened toe) and could eventually lead to the need for a second amputation.
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Toe amputations can be done successfully in birds, but there is uncertainty when it comes to a turkey of Quincy’s size. Losing his middle toe could significantly affect his balance and mobility, making it unclear how well he would adapt in the long term.

What’s at Stake

Without surgery, Quincy’s pain will only intensify and he will eventually lose all mobility. But with it, he has the opportunity to return to the life he loves: strutting across the sanctuary, watching over his turkey and chicken companions, puffing up proudly when visitors arrive, and sneaking his beloved blueberries whenever he can.
Quincy has spent his whole life protecting others. Now, he needs us to protect him.

​How You Can Help

​This surgery will come at a significant cost (at least $3,000 total), and as a small nonprofit sanctuary, we cannot shoulder this burden alone. Every donation, no matter the size, goes directly toward giving Quincy the care he needs.
💙 $25 could cover part of his medications.
💙 $100 could help pay for his hospitalization.
💙 $250 could go toward his surgical costs.

Together, we can give Quincy the chance to keep living the full, joyful life he deserves.
➡️ [Donate now to Quincy’s Surgery Fund]

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with Quincy: our guardian, our window-peeker, our blueberry lover - in his hour of need.