A popular pig in Central Saanich is being given a reprieve after the BC SPCA has offered to have it examined by a veterinarian.
The 18-year-old pig, which is popular with users along the Lochside Trail in Central Saanich, has a chronic skin disease.
Farmer Frans Winkel and his wife, Marjolyn have been treating the disease with a spray — which was recommended by his vet—preventing itching and flies from attacking the pig’s open wounds.
Last week, a member of the public lodged a complaint to the BC SPCA about the pig. After being paid a visit by an SPCA officer on Wednesday, Winkel was given five days to choose between having his pig checked out by a veterinarian for a fee, or having it euthanized. Failure to do so could result in criminal charges made against him, according to the offence ticket.
READ MORE: Popular Lochside Trail pig faces possible euthanasia after complaint lodged to SPCA
In an emailed update Monday, the BC SPCA has offered to have the pig examined by a veterinarian.
This extends the pig’s life until at least after the examination is done, giving the pig a chance to live out its remaining days on the farm it calls home.
On average, pigs live between 15 to 20 years old, and Winkel believes his senior pig can live a few more months.
-With files from CHEK’s Oli Herrera
CHEK News
