Skip to content

About Pigs 'n' Paws

Pigs ‘n’ Paws is a registered non-profit company that takes in unwanted, abused and abandoned pet pigs to give them sanctuary, allowing them to live as natural lives as possible.

Play Video

Sanctuary for the Unwanted

Pigs ‘n’ Paws is a registered non-profit company that takes in unwanted, abused and abandoned pet pigs to give them sanctuary, allowing them to live as natural lives as possible. All our pigs are free roaming, constantly interacting with us and each other on our accommodating smallholding lying in the outskirts of Pretoria.

We realised when we got our first pig as a pet in 2004 that there would be a need for a pig Sanctuary in South Africa. Too many people were buying piglets from pet shops and breeders without realising all the consequences of owning a pig. Although they make wonderful pets, they are not easily manageable, are highly intelligent, manipulative and destructive if lonely or bored. And of course, people did not realise that ‘farm’ animals are not allowed within certain residential areas which gave their neighbours plenty to complain about!

Sanctuary for All Pigs and Paws

We have taken in Pot Bellies from Sandton, had a pig flown to us from George, and taken in 5 pigs from a lady whose husband threatened to send to the abattoir – to name just a few examples. We have also gone into informal settlements and educated people on how to keep their pigs to ensure better living conditions for these wonderful animals.

As for the Paws part of the NPC, we also foster rescue dogs and rehabilitate and re-home them using proper adoption procedures, applications, and home checks. We use the “pack” method of rehabilitation, allowing the dogs the freedom to live around us and in our home. This gives the lost and the traumatised the warmth of being in a home and the stability and companionship of being in a pack. All our dogs are sterilised, vaccinations are up to date and are de-wormed regularly.

Founders and Directors

Introducing the core team of Pigs ‘n’ Paws, the compassionate force behind the scenes. Standing at the back, from left to right, we have Darrell Oliver (who sadly passed away in 2022) and Nicky Malot. Seated in front of Nicky is Leslie Giles, accompanied by Antoinette Steyn on her left. Completing the row of remarkable individuals is Shelly Drynan on the left. This devoted team is wholly committed to the welfare of their rescues, consistently going above and beyond for the animals in their care.

In loving memory of Darrell Olivier, we have established a special camp where his legacy lives on through the cherished piggies he once cared for. This heartfelt tribute is a testament to Darrell’s unwavering dedication and love for these remarkable creatures. At the camp, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with the very piggies he nurtured, forging a meaningful bond with each snout, wagging tail, and playful oink. Join us in preserving Darrell’s spirit as we continue his extraordinary work and create lasting memories with these incredible animals.