Ayla is also a potbelly pig; the general term has become a common reference to several types of miniature pigs. She was raised from a baby with the four alpacas we adopted and considered them her family! Ayla is white with beautiful blue eyes. We don’t know her exact species, though she —like all miniatures — is the product of many generations of selective breeding. Her blue eyes are likely the result of a disease caused by a porcine rubulavirus, often present in the nursing mother. She is a talker (!), often with soft sweet mumblings. 

Ayla came to us through the neighbor that moved and couldn’t take the alpacas with them. They had gotten Ayla as a baby, and though heartbreaking to leave her, knew she would be better to stay with her family — the four alpacas had adopted her, and they were a tight-knit group! We were happy to bring her into the Robin’s Nest fold. Honestly, it took awhile for Ayla to be accepted by the other piggies. We admire her tenacity in continuing her quest to fit in — something many kids experience. There are lessons everywhere here at Robin’s Nest. 

Thus Ayla became the “plus-one” element of the pig family! We hope you get to hear her little soft chatter, usually more pronounced early in the morning. Nothing could be sweeter!  

IN LOVING MEMORY OF AYLA

The loss of our sweet Ayla has left a deep ache in our hearts. At just five years old, she was full of love and gentle spirit — taken from us far too soon due to complications linked to her breed.

Ayla was a potbelly pig, part of a population that has been selectively bred to achieve smaller sizes. While these miniature pigs may appear ideal for companionship, the reality is far more complex — and often heartbreaking. Selective breeding, especially when driven by appearance, frequently involves inbreeding. This can lead to serious genetic issues: reduced immunity, congenital abnormalities, nutritional deficiencies, and complications with vital organs.

In Ayla’s case, a post-mortem examination revealed a small piece of food lodged in a narrowed part of her esophagus — likely stuck for several days. The specialist who worked tirelessly to save her, along with a team of up to ten veterinary professionals, explained that this kind of internal constriction is unfortunately common in animals bred for smaller sizes. Her esophagus was simply too narrow, a result of the very traits she had been bred to display.

What made her care even more challenging is the fact that even in a large urban area like Southern California, veterinarians trained to treat potbelly pigs are few and far between. Their unique anatomy and specialized health needs require expertise that is still too rare.

Ayla’s passing is a devastating reminder of the hidden costs of selective breeding. She brought us joy every single day, and her memory fuels our continued commitment to advocate for responsible breeding practices and better medical care for pigs like her.

We are heartbroken — but we are also determined. In Ayla’s name, we will continue to educate, rescue, and fight for animals who need us most.

Rest easy, sweet girl. You will always be part of our story. 🐷💔

Piggy Points:

Contrary to stereotypes, pigs are not “dirty” animals. They do not attract flies, and they are virtually odor free. They do, however, enjoy eating with gusto and love a mud bath, which regulates their temperature and protects them from sunburn.

Pigs are fast runners! They also can be good swimmers in shallow water.

Pigs love being with other pigs. When sleeping, they like to cuddle close together. They represent some of the most social of animals!

Potbelly pigs are the fourth smartest animal group on the planet, following only humans, apes/chimps, and whales/dolphins.