Police in Ebino City, Miyazaki Prefecture, handed over a rescued piglet named Tonton to a new owner on April 17 [3].
The transition highlights the intersection of animal welfare and municipal law when pets are abandoned and their legal holding periods expire.
Tonton was first brought to the police station in March [1]. The animal, measuring approximately 50 centimeters in length [4], remained under the care of the station for a holding period of about two weeks [2]. During this time, the piglet became a temporary fixture at the precinct. Some reports described the animal as a figurative "43rd officer" among the 42 actual staff members [5].
Because the original owner never appeared to claim the animal, the police sought a suitable permanent home to ensure the piglet's well-being. The animal was eventually transferred to Kota Kono, a local cattle farmer [1].
"Livestock are normally intended for meat, but I think it is okay to have a pig that makes people smile," Kono said [1].
As the piglet departed for its new home, Deputy Chief Hideki Yonezawa bid the animal farewell. "Stay healthy, Tonton. Goodbye," Yonezawa said [1].
Earlier during the holding period, police personnel monitored the animal's condition. "Tonton, no abnormalities," a police officer said on April 17 [3].
“"Livestock are normally intended for meat, but I think it is okay to have a pig that makes people smile,"”
This incident illustrates the procedural handling of lost or abandoned animals under Japanese law, where a set holding period must pass before the state can rehome an animal. By placing the piglet with a professional livestock farmer rather than a shelter, the police ensured the animal received specialized care, while the public nature of the transfer reflects a community-oriented approach to animal welfare.
