Sometimes the most unexpected rescue missions turn out to be the most memorable. When Knox County officials received reports of two pigs living on Looney Islands in the Tennessee River, they knew they had to act. What followed was a heartwarming adventure that gave rescuers the best day at work they could imagine.

Mary Nussbaum, Director of Medical Operations at Young-Williams Animal Center, found herself on an entirely new kind of rescue mission. While she had experience with dairy cattle, this was her first pig rescue, and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience. Alongside Knox County Rescue, the team set out to bring the stranded pigs to safety.

Local Knoxvillians first spotted the unusual island residents while walking along the Tennessee River. The mystery of how the pigs ended up there remains unsolved, though rescuers believe some good Samaritans may have initially tried to help by creating a shelter for them. Regardless of how they arrived, it was clear the pigs needed proper care and a safe home.

The rescue operation itself was nothing short of charming. Using pig boards to gently encircle the animals and food as an enticing lure, the team discovered something wonderful. The pigs seemed ready to be rescued. Nussbaum described a touching moment when one pig approached her cautiously, drawn by the food she offered. Slowly edging through the brush, she gained the animal's trust until it was eating right from her hand.

Josh Holley, a content creator for Young-Williams who participated in the wrangling, captured the adventure on video. He admitted it wasn't his best footage, but it was absolutely one of his best days at work. The genuine joy and satisfaction of helping these animals radiated from everyone involved.

Sunny's Take

After their island adventure, both pigs received thorough check-ups at the center. The news was wonderful. Despite being a little overweight, which Nussbaum cheerfully noted is common for pigs, they were remarkably healthy. The larger black pig weighs about 150 pounds, while the smaller companion tips the scales at around 100 pounds.

Many doubters had warned the team that finding two pigs on an island bigger than a football field would be impossible. The successful rescue proved them wonderfully wrong. The pigs were not microchipped, and while owners could theoretically come forward, they would need to explain the unusual island situation.

Both rescued pigs have been placed in foster care and are preparing for adoption. The pre-adoption process is expected to be competitive, given the heartwarming nature of their story. For those who miss out, the center reminds potential adopters that they have two other pigs who were found on Christmas and are also looking for loving homes.

In a delightful twist, the rescue team joked that the entire pig operation might have been a diversion orchestrated by a peacock spotted in the area who remains at large. Whether that's true or not, this rescue reminded everyone involved why they do what they do: to give every animal, no matter how unusual the circumstances, a chance at a happy, safe life.