In Loving Memory of Sweet Primo
Squidward’s best friend.
Primo came to us from another Sanctuary in Southern WA. Odd Man Inn focuses on rescuing pigs, and Wendy sure does know about pigs. We were cautious with who we brought in to be Squid’s companion, as we knew just any pig wouldn’t do. Squidward was a bit grumpy back in the day, he had never lived with another pig that we knew of, he is quite small and has special needs, so finding him the right companion wasn’t easy. After doing some searching we called Wendy to see if she had someone that might be a good fit. Sure enough, she said, “I actually think I might have the perfect pig.” She was so right! They only had Primo for a couple of months after he was found as a stray. A man found him and brought him in, knowing he was unable to give Primo what he needed. It was just a week or two after Christmas, so we believe Primo was dumped after being given as a Christmas gift, since he was never claimed. Wendy was kind enough to bring Primo to us and we were in love at first sight. He was an adorable young pig, nervous and scared, but with a desire to trust at the same time. We divided Squidward’s house into two with a barrier they could see, smell and talk with each other. They both immediately seemed fairly content with each other’s presence. We wanted to give them as much time as they needed to adapt to each other. In just a couple short days we knew they were ready and willing to meet without a barrier. Pigs will fight for their hierarchy and because of Squid’s age and being a bit bigger (at the time) we were confident he would remain dominant, which played out to be true. They did fight, but for only a minute. There were a few scratches, but nothing significant. Primo ended up retreating back into their house and that was that. That’s all they needed. That night they were sleeping in their hay pile together and the next day they were snuggling like two peas in a pod, which they did every night since, until Monday, when death made them part.
Primo had his first check-up Monday, which was only intended to be a blood draw to see where his kidney levels were. When he was discharged a little over a week ago his kidney levels had already rose, but we had since adjusted his medication, hoping it would help. Long term success would mean we would need to find a balance where he was receiving enough of his heart medications to help his heart function properly, but not so much that the meds would destroy his kidneys. Unfortunately, for Primo this combination was not possible. The amount of meds he needed to keep his heart sufficient, was too much for his kidneys. So, the unexpected decision and conversation was sprung upon us. We were out of options.
Primo had lost interest in eating the last day or so, he still had a strong spirit and will to live, but much like Chino, his body was just not able to do so. After a few minutes walking around the van wagging his tail, he would get tired and need to lay down to rest. We knew, as difficult as it was, the best decision for Primo was to have him laid to rest peacefully and not cause any further potential suffering.
Squiddy and I were with him as he lay peacefully in his hay. We had the whole day together to say our goodbyes and get in as many snuggles as possible. Dr. Sexton and Dr. G, are two of the most compassionate individuals we know. They provide supreme care and their kindness, compassion, and understanding is more than anyone could ever ask for. They crawled into the back of the van, to allow Primo to be as comfortable and normal as possible. They sedated him first and then did an ultrasound guided euthanasia which was one of the most peaceful euthanasia’s I’ve witnessed. Primo just lay to rest in my lap cuddled up with his best friend. Squiddy laid there in silence, eyes wide open. We knew that he knew. The doctors allowed Squiddy and I additional time to lay with Primo’s body. As tears filled their eyes and rolled down their cheeks, they gave me huge bear hugs and held my hand, reassuring me that they understood how difficult this was.
Primo was the sweetest and happiest pig we knew. It was a rare occasion, if ever, that you’d find him not wagging his little tail. If he stopped for a moment, you could just say, “hi Primo” and it would wag again from one side to the other, as far as possible. His soft ,dark brown, innocent eyes would look up at you and melt your heart. He was a skittish boy and didn’t trust many humans, but the ones that he did he, he would instantaneously rollover, asking for some belly rubs, then giving his small little grunts in gratitude. Primo was an adventurer, he loved to wander and explore, rooting his way around for hours to his hearts content. Before we added the hillside to their yard, we would let them out to roam the property while being attended. Sometimes it took hours before we could get Primo back into his yard because he liked to root and forage his way all the way down to the neighbors. Primo was such an easy-going pig whom always seemed content. He loved to sunbathe with Squid, then cool off by laying in their mud hole. On real hot days he would roll from side to side, so his whole body would be covered in mud. He was such a clean pig, never pottying inside, even in the middle of Winter. He liked all the seasons and loved being outside. Second, of course, to spooning with Squidward in their hay.
Primo was taken way to young, as he was only 2 ½, but we find comfort in knowing that during his time spent here he felt loved and was happy. He was the perfect companion for Squiddy and we loved him so. We miss the little guy so much, especially Squiddy and Pearl.
We will always remember you, Primo-man. We love you.