Ferdinand Needs Help: Mallorca's Famous Farm Pig Becomes Gravely Ill

Emergency on the Farm: Ferdinand Can Barely Stand on His Legs

At the Fresopolis adventure farm, somewhere between Palma and Llucmajor, spirits have been low in recent days. Ferdinand, the 300-kilogram boar who has lived here since his rescue and attracted many visitors, has major hoof problems. His owner Rainer has cared for the boar lovingly for two years – but now he is at his limits.

What exactly is going on?

Rainer reports heavily swollen hooves, cracked hooves and a misalignment that makes walking a torment. Simple measures such as brushing, occasional trimming of the claws and rest are no longer enough. In recent days he visited several veterinarians on the island, but so far without lasting treatment success. One veterinarian started what is called initial care, but then stopped, says Rainer.

If nothing changes, Ferdinand could lose his mobility, says the 65-year-old farm operator. That sounds clinical, but anyone who knows the boar immediately sees: this is an emergency. Ferdinand is no longer a production pig, but a familiar farm member – children blow kisses at him, older visitors stop to gaze.

Why doesn't ordinary veterinary medicine help?

Pigs with severe hoof problems often require specialized treatment: proper trimming of hooves, pain and inflammation management, possibly X-rays or ultrasound, sometimes even orthopedic procedures. Such procedures require experience with farm livestock and appropriate equipment – not all small-animal practices are equipped for that.

Rainer therefore explicitly asks for contact to veterinarians who treat livestock, or to people with experience in hoof care for large pigs. Help in the form of materials, transport to a suitable clinic, or financial support would also improve the chances.

How you can help

Those who can help – whether with expertise, contacts or support – are asked to get in touch directly. Rainer can be reached by email: rlingelbach@gmx.de. Every hint, every hour of professional work and every donation counts. Ferdinand has already been given a second life. Now he needs your help to continue.

The situation is serious but not hopeless. In a small stall, on a cool morning, the neighbor's message conveys more than just worry: it is about the survival of an unusual, cherished farm resident. And about the fact that on Mallorca, sometimes the simple things – such as a hoof trimming tool or an experienced veterinarian – can make the difference.