A Pinellas County judge found SPCA Tampa Bay not guilty in a civil animal cruelty citation involving Waddles the pig.
The case involved allegations surrounding the care of the 350-pound pig while he was in SPCA Tampa Bay’s custody, including claims that Waddles suffered sunburn after being exposed to the Florida sun.
SPCA Tampa Bay said Waddles was surrendered to the organization last summer with multiple medical issues. The organization said he was transferred within two weeks to Pork Butt Pastures, a specialized pig rescue equipped to provide the long-term care he needed. SPCA Tampa Bay said concerns about Waddles’ treatment were raised after the transfer.
In a report by Fox 13, Kelly Dill, founder of Pork Butt Pastures, said she personally saw Waddles while he was at SPCA Tampa Bay and that he appeared to have sunburn.
During the non-jury bench trial, the judge said there was no evidence that SPCA Tampa Bay failed to provide Waddles with necessary treatment. The judge also noted evidence showed Waddles was able to walk, contradicting claims that he was unable to move. The court considered evidence regarding Waddles’ ability to move around and access shade while he was in SPCA Tampa Bay’s care.
Supporters of Waddles argued that SPCA Tampa Bay should have taken additional steps to help the pig access shade while he was in the organization’s care.
The judge did acknowledge that Waddles suffered sunburn while at SPCA Tampa Bay, but there was no official timeline showing when the injury occurred, according to 10 Tampa Bay.
"Our compassionate staff has always put the wellbeing of animals first," said Martha Boden, president and CEO of SPCA Tampa Bay, in a press release. "For nearly a year, this group of dedicated veterinary and animal welfare professionals had their integrity questioned publicly. Throughout it all, our amazing team never stopped providing thoughtful, appropriate care to every animal entrusted to us. Today's ruling is an important affirmation of the professionalism, commitment and skill of the team members who devote their lives to making a meaningful, positive difference for animals and the people who love them."
Dill told news outlets she will continue advocating for Waddles and disagrees with the court’s decision.
Waddles remains at Pork Butt Pastures in Plant City, where he appears to be doing better.