Hannah Clarke, a busy psychotherapist running her own business, found herself forced to take a break after a serious neck injury. A prolapsed disc meant three months of limited activity, a stark change of pace for the woman who had always been on the go. But amidst the discomfort and uncertainty, Hannah found solace in an unlikely companion: her pet pig, Colin.
Colin, a gentle giant, had become an integral part of Hannah’s therapy practice, often working with children facing trauma, anxiety, and depression. Witnessing the positive impact Colin had on others, Hannah realized she needed his calming presence in her own life. The pig’s laid-back nature, love of good food, and appreciation for quality time in the fresh air helped Hannah reassess her own work-life balance.
During her recovery, Hannah spent countless hours with Colin. She’d sit in the garden, Colin nestled at her feet, enjoying a good belly rub. He seemed to especially appreciate Dolly Parton’s music, purring contentedly to her tunes while offering a disapproving look whenever ABBA came on. Colin’s presence, his unwavering focus on the present moment, became a form of meditation for Hannah.
“He made me realize what truly matters is the here and now because Colin doesn’t care about the big wide world,” Hannah reflects. “Our friendship isn’t about talking, planning, or reflecting, it’s about being present.”
The experience helped Hannah realize that she needed to prioritize her own well-being. She returned to work with a new perspective, scaling back her commitments and making time for Colin’s daily rituals. He would patiently wait outside her back door, squealing until she joined him for a sunbathing session in the garden, where he’d close his eyes and wait for his lullaby.
Hannah is now fully recovered and credits Colin for helping her find peace and rediscover the importance of slowing down. Her story is a testament to the power of animal companionship, a reminder that even the most unlikely of friends can provide immense comfort and healing.
“Scientific evidence has now proved just how valuable our four-legged friends are for our mental health,” Hannah says. “Spending time with animals floods our brains with the feel-good hormones serotonin and dopamine. Science has proved it and Colin has too.”
Colin’s story reminds us that sometimes, the best therapy comes in the form of a warm, snorting hug from a pig who doesn’t care about the world’s worries. You can follow Colin’s adventures on Instagram @colinthepig.
