Therapy pigs visit residents of area nursing homes

In a heartwarming initiative, Mark Bengston has captured the attention of Wright County for his unique and impactful work raising therapy pigs and bringing them to nursing homes. Bengston’s journey from a CDC employee in Atlanta to a beloved community figure highlights animal therapy’s power.
Originally from New Jersey, Bengston moved to Georgia in 1992 and worked at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta.
After retiring in 2012, he purchased a farm in Cave Spring, Ga., where he began raising cattle, goats and Kunekune pigs.
By 2016, he had outgrown his farm and relocated to a larger one in Huggins.
Despite his lack of prior farming experience, Bengston quickly adapted and thrived in his new environment.
Bengston was inspired to use Kunekune pigs as therapy animals because of their docile nature and small size, which makes them ideal for interaction. 
“Due to the Kunekune’s docile disposition and small size, they were ideal for therapy. A friend mentioned that this breed of pig would be ideal as therapy pigs,” Bengston explained.
Kunekune pigs require no formal training to become therapy animals. 
“No training necessary. Kunekunes are very social and love the company of people,” Bengston said. Their natural affinity for human interaction makes them perfect companions for elderly residents in nursing homes.
Therapy sessions with the pigs are short and sweet. Depending on the number of residents, Bengston brings between two and five piglets, typically aged 8 to 16 weeks. 
“They are just the right size to be held in laps,” he noted. 
The residents’ reactions are overwhelmingly positive. Many find joy and comfort in holding and petting the piglets.
One particularly touching moment for Bengston was when a semi-catatonic woman in her 90s became animated while holding a piglet. 
“Brought tears to me and the staff,” he recalled. The pigs’ sweet and docile personalities excite the residents, although Bengston admits he’s unsure why.
Despite the lack of official support, the therapy pig program has been well-received by staff and families of the residents.
“They love them and want more visits,” Bengston said. 
The lack of funding remains a significant challenge, but he continues to bring his pigs to anyone who requests a visit. This is where the community can step in and make a difference, supporting the program through donations on their GoFundMe page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/bf-farm-pig-therapy-program.
Working with therapy pigs has deepened Bengston’s empathy for older people. 
“I always had a soft spot for the elderly. I feel we do not provide enough support for their emotional needs in nursing homes,” he reflected. 
For more information on the therapy pig program or to support the initiative, visit BF Farm’s website: https://www.bffarm.net.