2nd pot-bellied pig rescued from Nockamixon State Park prompts SPCA investigation

QUAKERTOWN, Pa. (WPVI) -- For the second time this summer, a pot-bellied pig has been rescued from Nockamixon State Park, prompting officials at the Bucks County SPCA to ask the public for help in determining how the animals ended up there.

Lewis, a 2-year-old pig weighing 88 pounds, was found near the park's fishing pier last Thursday and lured in with food. He is now being cared for at the SPCA's Quakertown shelter.

"They called us. We had caught a pig there in July. So they were able to catch this one," said Cindy Kelly of the Bucks County SPCA.

The July rescue involved another pot-bellied pig named Howie, who was found in rougher condition and is still being treated for a skin infection.

Kelly said a wire dog crate was discovered in the woods near Lewis, raising concerns that the pigs may have been abandoned.

"We're asking if anyone recognizes these particular pigs or has any knowledge of how they got to the park, we would love to know about it," Kelly said.

The SPCA emphasized that pot-bellied pigs are not wild animals and require proper care and a loving home. Lewis, once a tiny speckled piglet, is now thriving on applesauce and attention at the shelter.

Local parkgoers expressed surprise at the unusual sightings.

"People should really keep their pets at home instead of letting them out in the wild. That's definitely not natural around here," said Simon Ingerman of Jamison, Pa.

In addition to Lewis and Howie, the shelter currently has two other pigs available for adoption. Those animals have been at the SPCA since last year following a large animal cruelty case.

Anyone with information about the origins of Lewis or Howie is urged to contact the Bucks County SPCA.