In Memory of Raisin Talley

“Big Stripey Pig”
7 June 2002 – 6 February 2011

Raisin came to live with me in May of 2005. She was an ex-breeder and her original name was “Sheena” but since I had “Oatmeal” (her ½ sister) and later got “Cookie “(her niece) I thought the name was applicable (Oatmeal Raisin Cookie). She was shy at first but quickly acclimated to her new surroundings and her new sisters. It only took her a few times to learn how to dance and sing. Whenever she wanted a B.O.N.E. she would spin around furiously. If I didn’t cooperate quickly enough the singing began. Her favorite things to do were eat B.O.N.E.S, sniff every square millimeter outside, and snuggle with me. She actually spooned with me every night. She put her head on my shoulder and her arm around me. If I turned over she would quickly jump over me and get back into position. Lack of snuggling was not an option. One of her many nicknames was “Snugglepig”. She was also called “Big Stripeypig” due to her beautiful brindle coat. Upon seeing her one little girl called her a tiger and another called her a poodle. Everyone loved her. Raisin never met a stranger and never barked in anger. She shared her toys, food, and blankets with everyone. 
Raisin had a seizure at the end of December 2010. Initially we thought she would be ok but the seizures returned at the end of January 2011. An MRI revealed the cancer. We tried everything we could but before she could get to the oncologist she had a bout of seizures from which she did not recover. February 6, 2011 was the worst day of my life. 
When Raisin’s breeder found out that she died she offered to give me her Granddaughter. Initially we were reticent to bring a new “pig” into the family but I thought it would be a good idea for my other “pigs”. As it turns out she is just as affectionate as her Grandmother. I think the Big Stripey Raisinpig would have really liked her Granddaughter. We named her Pumpkin and she has even learned to dance. Raisin did a good job. 
It has taken me exactly 9 months to write this. I will miss my big Stripeypig every day for the rest of my life. 
Pig Dad, Mushroom, Oatmeal, Cookie, and Roxie