Crossbreed Charlotte gives birth to seven piglets
A pig which was rescued and re-homed after she was discovered roaming the fields of Middlesborough, has surprised her new owners by giving birth to seven piglets.
Charlotte, a small crossbreed, was found by RSPCA officers earlier this year following reports of a 'mysterious, dark beast' wandering around countryside.
After a member of the public confirmed seeing a small black pig, RSPCA officers attended, but Charlotte had already vanished.
Finally, after another caller reported that a pig was in his garden, deputy chief inspector John Lawson attended the property and collected the animal.
Inspector Lawson said: “Charlotte was very friendly so we were sure she had been somebody’s pet previously. After we took her to a boarding farm to be cared for, nobody came forward to claim her, so we found a lovely new home where she settled in quickly.
“She proved difficult to catch, maybe because she felt particularly vulnerable due to her pregnant state, although we did not realise this at the time.
“The new owners said Charlotte settled in straight away; they even discovered she likes to play with a football. But they became concerned recently when they noticed her teats had become enlarged.
“We are delighted to hear that she is not only well, but that she has had a healthy litter of piglets. We will be keeping in touch with the new owners and look forward to hearing about her progress.”
Image (C) RSPCA
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
