News Summary
Life With Pigs, an animal sanctuary in Williamsburg, VA, has raised over $20,000 for Huckleberry, a lamb in need of critical medical treatment. Funded through community donations, this support highlights the commitment to animal welfare. Huckleberry, who was rescued from an undesirable situation, is undergoing treatment for bladder stones, which has posed significant challenges for the sanctuary. With the community’s backing, the Phillipses strive to ensure a better future for Huckleberry and many other neglected animals.
Williamsburg, VA – Life With Pigs, a sanctuary for farm animals, has successfully raised over $20,000 to cover the medical expenses for Huckleberry, a 6-month-old lamb, in urgent need of lifesaving care. The funds were generated through donations and sponsorships from the community, highlighting the strong support for animal welfare in the region.
Huckleberry was rescued shortly before Easter from a Craigslist listing where he was being sold by individuals who no longer wanted him for breeding purposes. The Phillipses, owners of the sanctuary, took Huckleberry in when he was approximately 8 to 10 weeks old, providing a safe haven and allowing him to play and bond with other animals during the day while offering protection at night.
However, in late May, the couple noticed that Huckleberry was displaying signs of distress, which prompted a veterinary examination. After thorough diagnostics, veterinarians diagnosed Huckleberry with bladder stones, a serious condition that would require extensive medical intervention including hospitalizations and surgery at North Carolina State University.
Over the past year, the cost of Huckleberry’s treatment has exceeded $8,000, with additional medical expenses pushing the sanctuary’s total for animal care beyond $20,000. Despite successful surgery, Huckleberry faced post-surgery complications and an infection that left his condition critical for several weeks. The Phillipses now monitor Huckleberry’s pH levels and provide specialized hay that costs double the ordinary price, in an effort to prevent future bladder stones.
The challenges faced by the Phillipses are common among sanctuaries caring for rescued farm animals. Life With Pigs, now in its eighth year, frequently encounters medical needs among its inhabitants. Each animal that comes through the sanctuary’s doors presents a unique set of challenges, and the costs associated with their care can quickly add up.
In addition to medical needs, Life With Pigs is actively working to inspire community involvement to support the ongoing care of their animals. The sanctuary relies on donations, animal sponsorships, and volunteer assistance to maintain its operations. Many in the community, like volunteer Malita Kim, have stepped forward to advocate for the sanctuary’s mission and recognize the dedication that the Phillipses provide for the animals in their care.
The Phillipses emphasize their commitment to improving the lives of animals that have faced difficult circumstances. Through Huckleberry’s story, they have highlighted the plight of many abandoned and neglected animals and the urgent need for compassionate care. The sanctuary’s efforts illustrate the importance of community support in making a difference for vulnerable animals.
Supporters of Life With Pigs can contribute through donations, engage in sponsorship programs, and stay informed about the sanctuary’s activities by following their social media channels. Updates about Huckleberry and the sanctuary’s other residents will be regularly shared to keep the community connected and engaged in the mission of providing a safe and loving environment for all rescued animals.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Press: Help for the Helpers Farm Animal Sanctuary Makes Plea for Assistance
- Wikipedia: Animal Sanctuary
- Wydaily: JCC Approves Special Use Permit for Niceland Farm Event Venue
- Google Search: James City County special use permit
- Pilot Online: James City County Event Venue Narrowly Approved
- Google Scholar: James City County event venue
- Wric: Hidden History of James City County Farm
- Encyclopedia Britannica: James City County
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
