Joy MiniPig
Joy MiniPig is a local celebrity, who is internationally famous as the Spokes-Pig for the historic Capitol II Theatre in Newton, Iowa.[1]
History
Dawn and Paul Bleeker purchased Joy on 5 April 2012, from a breeder in Texas after two years of intense research. The decision to adopt a Minipig as a pet was made due to the allergies which made most pets not possible. Adopting Joy was only possible by the Bleekers convincing the City of Newton to change the city code to allow keeping a pig as a pet.[2] Joy originally came to the theater because she needed close supervision, and the newly purchased theater consumed most of their time. Joy eventually became the theatre's mascot.[3]
Public Service
Joy often appears in schools, retirement homes and the local library as a public service.[4]
Television Appearances
On 1 July 2016, Joy appeared in an Iowa Public Television Clubhouse video spot featuring her human sister, Madison, entitled "Pigs as Pets.[5][6]
Books
Joy was part of the inspiration for the fictional character "Mr. Not Bacon" in the book "Green Tea Latte to Go" by the author Aven Ellis.[7]
Modelling
Joy got her start in modelling for Pig Gear, and is featured on their home page. Joy also has been involved in Research and Development for Pig Gear's upcoming brain teaser toy.[8]
Joy has also modeled miniature pig fashion for "Snort Life", a business dedicated to designing, promoting and selling Miniature Pig fashion.[9]
Products
Starting in Fall of 2016, a Joy MiniPig plush toy will be offered for sale.[10]
External links
References
- ↑ The Des Moines Register
- ↑ American Mini Pig Association Joy the Mini Pig Hero Changes City Ordnance and More
- ↑ Babble: Joyful Living With a Mini-pig
- ↑ Public Library Announcements
- ↑ Iowa Public Television Clubhouse, 1 July 2016 "Pigs as Pets"
- ↑ Newton Daily News
- ↑ Aven Ellis Facebook page
- ↑ Pig Gear Home Page
- ↑ Snort Life
- ↑ Capitol 2 Website, Joy's Page