Ep 3. A Body Positive Pig Pageant

In "That Animal Rescue Show" season 1 episode 3, titled "A Body Positive Pig Pageant," viewers get a glimpse into the world of pig beauty pageants. Host and comedian Richard Lui leads viewers down this unique path, exploring the world of rescue pigs and their caretakers who are focused on promoting body positivity for pigs.

The episode begins with Lui introducing viewers to the Fallbrook Animal Sanctuary near San Diego, California. Founder and caretaker, Janice Wolf, shares her heartwarming story of rescuing pigs from abusive situations and how she fell in love with these intelligent, social, and loving animals. Wolf's sanctuary is home to 23 pigs, who get the chance to live their best lives in a loving environment where they are free to roam, play and interact with humans and other animals.

Next, the show introduces viewers to the world of pig pageants, where pigs are judged not by their size or beauty, but by their spirit and personality. Lui takes viewers to a "pig spa day" where pigs ready themselves for an upcoming pageant. The event is part of the annual Del Mar Fair, where 200,000 visitors come to enjoy carnival rides, fair food, and of course, the pig pageant.

Throughout the episode, viewers get to know a few contenders for the pageant crown, including Marigold, a petite and sassy pig who's small in size but big on personality. Another notable pig is 300-pound Billie Jean, who is charming and social, even though she's suffered from a severe leg injury. Despite her injury, Billie Jean still manages to win over the hearts of everyone she meets.

Throughout the episode, viewers get to see how the pigs are cared for while preparing for the pageant, including a spa day where they receive massages and nail buffs, as well as a chance to shine in a photo shoot where they showcase their best poses and fashion.

At the pageant, judges evaluate each pig's behavior and attitude, not their looks or weight. Contestants are judged based on their intelligence, personality, and determination. The winner is crowned based on how well they display the qualities of body positivity, perseverance, and self-confidence. In the end, viewers get to see which pig is crowned Queen or King of the pig pageant.

But this episode is not just about beauty pageants for pigs. It's also about the incredible work rescues like the Fallbrook Animal Sanctuary do to provide a safe and loving environment for animals in need. Janice Wolf and her dedicated team are a reminder of the essential role sanctuaries play in animal welfare, especially for animals that are too often viewed as mere commodities with no emotional lives.

Overall, "That Animal Rescue Show" season 1 episode 3, "A Body Positive Pig Pageant," is a heartwarming and fun-filled episode that showcases the importance of body positivity and emotional wellbeing for rescue animals. It's an episode that's sure to make viewers smile and see pigs in a whole new light.