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Pigs in Blankets: Animal Shelter Looks for Donated Blankets

by KREX News Room
by John Dias

Story Created: Jan 23, 2013 at 6:32 AM MDT

Story Updated: Jan 23, 2013 at 6:33 AM MDT

MACK, Colo.- The Western Slope is home to many different animal shelters but one in particular is looking for some needed assistance this winter season.

Pig-A-Sus is a unique animal shelter in our area that takes in rescued Potbelly pigs, but owner, Sioux Bartles, is finding it rather hard to keep all these farm animals warm during these frigid cold temperatures.

“They're very smart, they're very loving and they're very caring,” said Bartles.

The safe haven, which has been around since 1994, is home to 67 pigs all with a name. However, because of the long and record low temperatures we've been seeing, Bartles says the pigs are in immediate danger; some are already suffering from medical problems.

“We have 22 that are elderly and are aged 12-23,” said Bartles. “We have those in heated huts but the rest of them are bare in the winter.”

This is why they’re looking to the community to donate used blankets to keep warm.

“They snuggle under it, cuddle up,” said Bartles. “If we have really hard winds or the wind chill drops down real low, we will hang them at night over the doors to stop the drafts.”

Local veterinarians say as we head further into winter and approach calving and lambing season, things could get worse for these animals, as their babies are born.

“Farmers and ranchers really have to be right there and get them dried off,” said Dr. Ian Smith, veterinarian. “They must have their heat lamps there and ready to go or they are going to see frost bitten ears or death.”

“The animal shelters that are around the area, they're all inside,” said Bartles. “But think about the animals that are on the outside.”

Bartels says one blanket donated, is one pig saved, which gives a whole new meaning to the term "Pigs in a Blanket."

If you would like to donate a blanket to the cause, Mesa County AmeriCorps is serving as a drop off location. They’re located at 1129 Colorado Avenue in Grand Junction and can be reached at 244-0633.

For more information on Pig-A-Sus, click here or call 858-9628.

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Eileen Young said on Wednesday, Jan 23 at 9:17 AM

I have been following this for a couple of days...great articles! Thank you for shining the light on a good person who is obviously devoted to, and has passion for, the piggies that have been placed in her care! So nice to see an uplifting, positive article.

Linda Bradshaw said on Wednesday, Jan 23 at 6:34 PM

I just spoke with a lady at one of the shelters, she will take any size blanket,,,,I shall be dropping off one to help one of God's creatures. Please,,,won't you all help?

Pig-A-Sus said on Saturday, Feb 2 at 9:21 AM

It is a beautiful morning here and hopefully the day will be just as beautiful. The "Blanket Drive" is winding down, but we are still accepting and picking up in surrounding area. It was a great success and the "Piggies" will be warm for the remainder of this winter and will also have a good start on next winter in their new building with heat. Thanks again to all those who helped in one way or another , with blankets, transportation, searching we are blessed to know we have a great "emergency support group."

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