Escaped pig named “Kevin Bacon” home safe after two weeks on the run
A swine known as "Kevin Bacon" garnered widespread attention following its escape from a farm, and is now securely returned to its place of origin. Chelsea Rumbaugh, proprietor of multiple pigs on her agricultural property in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, counts among her stock a 200-pound hog whimsically christened "Kevin Bacon" in homage to the renowned actor.
On October 14th, Kevin Bacon made an unauthorized departure from the farm premises, venturing into the adjacent woodland area. Despite sporadic sightings of the pig returning to the farm by Chelsea, he would promptly evade human contact by fleeing and seeking concealment upon any attempt of approach.
Chelsea recounted to ABC 27, "He would catch sight of me, but consistently opted to flee upon previous encounters with humans. His willingness to engage in positive interactions and depart without fleeing signifies a sense of safety and security within our premises, a reassuring indicator of his comfort."
Chelsea issued a public appeal for assistance online as she persisted in her endeavors to capture the elusive pig. Subsequently, Kevin's narrative garnered nationwide attention, as reported by USA Today.
Despite employing various strategies, including deploying sizable traps, organizing search parties, and acquiring proficiency in lassoing techniques, Chelsea's attempts consistently proved unsuccessful. After a span of over two weeks, Kevin remained at large.
The narrative garnered the interest of renowned actor Kevin Bacon, who shared the burgeoning "internet sensation" on Threads, urging, "Bring Kevin Bacon home!" as articulated by the Golden Globe laureate.
As per the report from Philly Voice, Chelsea assumed custody of Kevin Bacon from a previous owner, partly due to his tendency to escape. In a Facebook announcement, she elucidated on the necessity of ensuring the pig's safety by restricting his roaming activities.
"While it would be preferable for #GettysburgKevin to enjoy freedom as a roaming pig, this poses several safety concerns," she articulated. "Factors such as potential encounters with black bears, firearms, and the impact on neighboring residents informed our decision against this arrangement."
This week marked the resolution of the pig's escapades, facilitated by an enticing Halloween treat.
On October 31st, Chelsea strategically placed a sticky bun laced with Benadryl, a sedating antihistamine, to entice her runaway pig, Kevin Bacon. Following the ingestion of the bait, Chelsea diligently scoured the vicinity for the whereabouts of her unconscious porcine companion.
Gratefully, the devised strategy proved successful as Kevin was eventually located and safely returned home. Expressing their relief, the owners shared the reassuring news on Facebook, eliciting a collective sigh of relief from concerned followers nationwide.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Chelsea conveyed to USA Today the effectiveness of a patient and gentle approach, ultimately leading to Kevin's eventual return.
After garnering widespread attention, what lies ahead for Kevin Bacon? According to the proprietors, his immediate plans involve recuperation, leisure, and indulging in snacks.
However, Chelsea harbors aspirations for Kevin and his porcine companions. "Our vision entails establishing a sanctuary for pigs, wherein we aim to provide therapeutic sessions and visitation opportunities for individuals, both children and adults, grappling with PTSD or various forms of neurodivergence," she conveyed to ABC 27.
Furthermore, she expressed her intention on Facebook to pen a children’s book centered around Kevin and to inaugurate a publicly accessible subsistence farm.
We rejoice in Kevin Bacon's safe return home! Our heartfelt gratitude extends to all who contributed to the search efforts.
Please help spread this narrative! ❤️🐷
