A 330-Pound Pet Pig Named Gudochok: How a Bird Rehabilitator's Unusual House Guard Came to Be

The Story of Gudochok

According to Главком: In March 2023, bird rehabilitation specialist Viktoriia Husarova took in a piglet she named Gudochok, who has since grown into a boar weighing approximately 150 kilograms (330 pounds). The animal lives inside Viktoriia's home in the Chernivtsi region and has taken on the role of guarding her property. This unusual arrangement became necessary because the bird rehabilitation work conducted in her yard prevents her from keeping dogs.

When Gudochok first arrived from Sniatyn, he weighed a mere 5 kilograms. From his earliest days, Viktoriia trained him to use a diaper and later to ask to go outside. She also acclimated the boar to wearing a harness and ensured he received vaccinations, demonstrating her responsible approach to animal care.

Life with Gudochok

This indoor boar serves as the yard's vigilant protector. Viktoriia notes his constant presence:

"He is always grunting."

On one occasion, when Viktoriia was carrying an injured bird, Gudochok charged at her. However, she clarifies that he does not bother the other birds he has befriended, including a one-legged magpie and a blind rook.

Gudochok's diet primarily consists of:

• grass
• apples
• pears
• meat
• feed

He avoids carrots, cabbage, and store-bought salad. In spring, the boar enjoys snacking on dandelions. Viktoriia Husarova emphasizes that pigs are among the most intelligent animals, comparing them to small children:

"Gudochok finds joy in life just like puppies and kittens. It's a shame they are often viewed so differently."

Thus, Gudochok has become not just an unconventional pet, but a vital part of Viktoriia Husarova's life, serving as both guardian and companion. This story highlights the importance of humane treatment toward animals and their capacity to become part of a family. Gudochok demonstrates how non-traditional pets can fulfill useful roles, even in situations where conventional solutions like keeping dogs are not feasible. Furthermore, it draws attention to animal intelligence, which may shift public perception regarding pigs and their potential as domestic companions. In many Western countries, 'mini-pigs' are popular pets, though few reach Gudochok's impressive size while living entirely indoors.