Whispering Rise Farm & Animal Sanctuary: A Loving Home for Rescued Pigs

Nestled in the serene hills of Freeland, Maryland, Whispering Rise Farm & Animal Sanctuary (WRFAS) is a haven of hope for potbelly pigs. Founded by Jeff Lambert, the sanctuary stands as a beacon of compassion, dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and educating the public about these often misunderstood animals. With over 60 pigs in residence and countless lives touched, Whispering Rise has become a model of care, community, and advocacy.

🌱 Origins and Mission

The idea for Whispering Rise was born from Jeff Lambert's experience working with at-risk youth and animals at a former facility in Virginia. His observations of the healing bond between children and animals inspired a dream that came to fruition in 2011 when he opened Whispering Rise with the support of his wife, Bonnie.

After attending the "How to Start and Run an Animal Sanctuary" workshop at Best Friends Animal Society in Utah, Lambert was moved to focus specifically on potbelly pigs. His goal: to provide a forever home for unwanted pigs and a platform to educate the public about the realities of pig ownership.

🐷 Meet the Residents: Their Stories

Each pig at Whispering Rise has a story of rescue, resilience, and renewal. Here are just a few:

• Jonathan, Gordy & Willie: Known as "The West Virginia Boys," these brothers were surrendered as piglets. Now they enjoy their days in cozy A-frame huts, cared for with love.

• Ren & Stimpy: Abandoned along the Baltimore/Washington Highway, this bonded pair found comfort in each other. Ren, visually impaired, leans on Stimpy for guidance—a touching testament to animal friendship.

• Ethan: Nicknamed the “King of Belly Rubs,” Ethan was tied to a tree at a trucking company for years. A deformed spine caused by a harness didn’t dampen his sweet nature. Today, he enjoys warmth, food, and human affection.

• Queen Peaches: A rare Berkshire pig rescued from the meat industry, Queen Peaches carries herself with regal flair and loves visitor attention.

• Tennessee Dave: One of the sanctuary’s most beloved pigs, he lived to be around 17 before passing peacefully, having spent his final years surrounded by love.

• Jinxy: The matriarch of the herd, Jinxy’s calming presence guided new arrivals. Her memory is cherished by staff and visitors alike.

• Rosebud: Overfed and food-aggressive after 10 years in a home, Rosebud arrived obese and arthritic. She now lounges in her personal mud pit, living a healthy and peaceful life.

• Belliumpkins: A gentle giant with a spotted coat, Belli loves playful mischief and has a knack for stealing feed buckets.

• LuLu: This charming pig is the sanctuary's unofficial greeter. She adores visitors and delights in snout kisses.

• Hershey: A shy pig with a mohawk-like patch of bristles, Hershey prefers quiet interaction but slowly warms up to guests.

• Ozzie: The social butterfly of the herd, Ozzie enjoys selfies with guests and never turns down a head scratch.

• Oreo: Named for her black-and-white coloring, Oreo was found as a stray and now thrives in her forever home.

• Mushu & Notorious P.I.G.: This quirky duo adds humor and personality to the sanctuary with their antics and unique bond.

  
  

🧘 Community Programs & Events

Whispering Rise offers numerous opportunities for public engagement:

• Guided Tours – For a suggested donation of $10, visitors receive hands-on education about potbelly pigs’ care, diet, behavior, and personality.

• Yoga with Pigs – A fan-favorite, this unique class invites guests to stretch alongside friendly pigs, promoting wellness and compassion.

• Pumpkin Smashing – After Halloween, the public is encouraged to donate their uncarved pumpkins for the pigs to enjoy, combining fun and sustainability.

• Volunteer Days – Animal lovers can help clean pens, prep food, or simply provide affection to pigs in need of human connection.

  
  

🐖 Potbelly Pigs: Myths & Realities

The sanctuary is deeply involved in public education, especially regarding misleading practices around “teacup pigs.” Lambert emphasizes:

• Teacup pigs do not exist. Many breeders sell young pigs under false pretenses. These animals eventually grow to 150–200 pounds, leading to a high rate of abandonment.

• Pigs are highly intelligent—more so than dogs—and can be trained, but they require space, structure, and consistent care.

• They are clean, social creatures, forming hierarchies and relationships both with humans and fellow pigs.

  
  

💞 A Dual Mission: Healing for Animals and Humans

Although Whispering Rise doesn’t promote itself as a therapy center, Lambert envisions the sanctuary as a place where healing happens—for animals and humans alike.

🙌 Support and Get Involved

Whispering Rise relies on donations, sponsors, and volunteers to operate. Every dollar goes toward food, shelter, vet care, and enrichment for the pigs. Individuals, families, and school groups are all welcome to contribute.

Visit www.wrfas.orgFollow: Facebook

Whispering Rise Farm & Animal Sanctuary is more than just a farm—it’s a place of transformation, where pigs find second chances and people rediscover compassion through muddy snouts and heartfelt stories.

Let their stories inspire yours.