FRANKFORD TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Sussex County) — Approximately 15 pigs that escaped from their enclosure and wandered onto a Sussex County roadway Wednesday morning were safely rounded up with the help of New Jersey State Police, animal control officers and their owner.
According to the Wantage Township Animal Shelter, New Jersey State Police responded at approximately 8:38 a.m. to Route 565 in Frankford Township after receiving reports of about 15 pigs running at large and creating a hazard for motorists.
Troopers arrived and safely contained the pigs along the side of the roadway until Wantage Animal Control officers arrived. Animal control personnel then guided the pigs back toward the property they had escaped from.
The owner arrived shortly afterward and helped return the animals safely to their pasture.
“We understand that livestock can occasionally get loose, and our priority is protecting both the safety of our residents and the well-being of the animals,” the Wantage Township Animal Shelter said in a statement. “We’re happy to report that all of these piggies are safely back home.”
Officials reminded motorists that encounters with livestock and other animals can occur in rural Sussex County and urged drivers to use caution when emergency responders are working along roadways.
“As a reminder, we live in Sussex County, where encounters like this can happen,” the shelter said. “If you see emergency responders working to contain animals or manage any roadside incident, please slow down, stay alert, and keep your attention on the road. While it may be tempting to take photos or videos, using your phone while driving creates an unnecessary risk for everyone involved.”
The shelter also thanked everyone who assisted in ensuring the pigs were safely returned home without injuries to the animals or the public.
