A small black pig is looking for a family in San Mateo County.

Peter Porker, a young male pig who arrived at Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA as a stray, is available for adoption. Staff at the open-admission shelter have evaluated him as healthy and friendly, according to a report published Tuesday, July 15, in the San Mateo Daily Journal.

Pigs rarely turn up at animal shelters. But because PHS/SPCA accepts every animal that comes through its doors, Peter Porker landed at the organization's Coyote Point facility at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo before being cleared for adoption.

"And just so you know, Peter Porker will grow to be at least 100 pounds, so make sure you are ready for this guy!" Colleen Crowley, communications manager at PHS/SPCA, said.

What Peter Porker needs

Crowley and shelter staff outlined specific care requirements for the pig. He needs a yard with room to dig, run, and play, plus shade at all times of day. He also needs a small muddy pool for wallowing. Pigs wallow in mud to stay cool, protect sensitive skin from sunburn, and keep insects like mites and ticks away.

Peter Porker eats fresh greens, hay, and commercial pig food, with the occasional fruit treat. Pigs are highly social and intelligent animals that require mental stimulation, according to PHS/SPCA.

Not PHS/SPCA's first pig

This isn't the first time the shelter has placed a pig. PHS/SPCA previously sought homes for a 9-year-old pig named Professor Truffles and, in 2018, a 24-pound stray named Vivienne. The organization has a longstanding policy of placing pigs strictly as pets.

PHS/SPCA is a private nonprofit that has served San Mateo County since the early 1950s. Staff care for between 425 and 1,100 animals on any given day across two facilities, and the organization receives no funding from national groups, according to its website.

How to adopt

Prospective adopters should note that pig ownership in California is governed by local zoning ordinances, and rules vary by city. Residents interested in Peter Porker should verify their local zoning allows pig ownership before applying.

Adoption inquiries can be directed to PHS/SPCA at 650-340-7022 or [email protected]. The shelter's adoption center, the Tom and Annette Lantos Center for Compassion, is located at 1450 Rollins Rd. in Burlingame and is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.