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shelters wouldn't take these pigs, and no other organization was stepping up to help, so Pigs Peace was born. Some of Judy's res- cues include a pig that was left in a closet without food, water or human contact; a pig that had been thrown out of a moving ve- hicle; and a pig that had never seen grass or dirt because it had been living in an apart- ment in Chicago. Pigs Peace specializes in helping pigs, but ponies, horses, llamas, dogs, cats, sheep, chickens, and turkeys also find a home for life there. H umans have long underestimated animals' intelligence, self-awareness, and capacity for emotion. Scientists are finally acknowledging what animal lovers have long known: animals feel emotional pain, bond, form relationships, and even grieve. Animals bring individual personalities and identities—yes, even farm animals, not just your resident canine or feline. According to Judy, pigs wag their tails when they're happy and content, bark alarm calls to warn others, and create friendships that last for years. Fern, the original Pigs Peace pot bellied resident and welcome committee chair, greets and comforts newcomers to the sanctuary. She seems to know who needs her the most, and that's where sanctuary staff find her: curled up with the tiny piglet or abused adult pig who's frightened or in pain. Over the years, dozens of animals have received Fern's love and that of the staff—the kind of love and care that can turn around even the most challenged animals. Carmelita was found wandering by a highway and came to Pigs Peace in good health--but aggressive and terrified, biting anyone within snapping distance. With gentle care and a healthy diet, Carmelita eventually left quarantine and joined the herd. She now loves attention and affection from visitors, and she even offers her quiet friendship to her fellow pigs. At Pigs Peace today, 190 pigs roam the thirty-nine acres, splash in the ponds, graze when they're hungry, root and roll, and sleep on soft hay in special sleeping areas. They explore the trails both with their pals in groups and individually. When they're sick, they benefit from the best veterinary care around. And even the most abused, sick, and frightened pigs have relaxed, healed, and found peace.