An unconventional therapy animal has become the star attraction at Good Samaritan Society in Olathe, where a miniature pig named Oden regularly visits residents and staff members.
Brett Martin, the facility’s maintenance director, introduced the tiny porker to the senior living community when Oden was merely the size of a soup can. Though initially shy, the pig now confidently explores hallways on a leash, delighting everyone he meets.
“I had to explain it wasn’t a giant pig, that it wasn’t going to be a huge risk. They’re pretty tame,” Martin said about convincing management to approve his unique companion. One year later, Oden has grown to roughly the size of an English bulldog, weighing approximately 40 pounds.
The friendly pig holds special significance in the memory care unit, where his presence often triggers emotional connections for residents with farming backgrounds. “They always think it’s one of their pets from way back when,” Martin noted.
Martin drew from previous experience, having witnessed the positive impact of therapy pigs while working with special needs children. His decision to bring Oden to Good Samaritan aimed to boost spirits among both residents and staff.
Between his walks, Oden stays in Martin’s office behind a baby gate, greeting visitors with grunts and eagerly accepting apple treats from passing residents and staff. His popularity has led to perhaps too many snacks, with Martin admitting the pig has become “a little overweight.”
The unusual therapy animal initially surprised residents like Mindy Howell. “I was very surprised. I didn’t know he had a pig,” she said. “Everybody was talking about him, and I had never seen him. But it’s awesome!”
Martin reports that Oden’s presence consistently lifts moods throughout the facility, with staff members regularly stopping by his office for visits with their porcine colleague.
