The Pig That Paints

Smithfield, the pig, finished 19 rounds of radiation in August. Based on his previous cancer experience, doctors give the 10-year-old at least another four years.

After four years in remission, Smithfield suffered a recurrence of nasal cancer this summer. Surgeons at North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine in Raleigh, N.C., removed another tumor from the top of his nose.

Like a disgruntled child, Fran Martin’s beloved pig can be stubborn and mischievous. But he's also an excellent student. In addition to having learned how to paint, he can sit, shake and turn around like a dog.


Smithfield also will kiss (especially Martin), stick out his tongue and "smile" a quick, hilarious grin.

Even more remarkable, Smithfield — who's hog wild about his chow — will sit and stare at a pile of food, without touching it, as long as Martin tells him to stay.

Speaking of which, he has been on a diet. Martin reckons he is down to about 148. "He's getting back his peanut-shaped figure," she says, laughing.

Video: Inrich (Click on the video tab just above the picture)
Source: USAToday
Tags: Smithfield | Paint | Pig