Joy MiniPig facts for kids

Joy MiniPig is a very special animal! She is a famous mini pig who lives in Newton, Iowa. Joy is known around the world as the official Spokes-Pig for the old and beautiful Capitol II Theatre.

Joy's Story

Joy joined her family, Dawn and Paul Bleeker, on April 5, 2012. They bought her from a special breeder in Texas. The Bleekers had looked into getting a mini pig for two years! They chose a mini pig because some family members had allergies that made it hard to have other pets.

Before Joy could move in, the Bleekers had to convince the City of Newton to change its rules. This allowed them to keep a pig as a pet in the city! Joy first started going to the Capitol II Theatre because she needed a lot of care. At the time, the Bleekers had just bought the theater and spent most of their time there. Soon, Joy became the theater's beloved mascot.

World Record Holder

Joy is a true superstar! She holds a Guinness World Records title for doing the most tricks in one minute for a mini pig. Imagine this: she can unroll her special performance rug, dance, play her own piano, and even knock down bowling pins! And she does it all with a happy wag of her tail.

Helping Others

Joy loves to help people and make them smile. She often visits schools, homes for older people, and the local library. These visits are a way for her to give back to the community.

On Television

On July 1, 2016, Joy was featured on television! She appeared in an Iowa Public Television show called "Clubhouse." The video spot was about "Pigs as Pets" and also featured her human sister, Madison.

In Books

Joy has even inspired characters in books! She helped create the idea for a fictional character named "Mr. Not Bacon." This character appears in the book "Green Tea Latte to Go" by author Aven Ellis.

Modelling Career

Joy started her modelling career with a company called Pig Gear. You can even see her on their main website! She has also helped Pig Gear test new products, like a brain teaser toy they are developing.

Joy also models for "Snort Life," a company that designs and sells fashion for mini pigs. She looks great in all their tiny outfits!

Joy's Products

Starting in the fall of 2016, fans of Joy could buy their very own Joy MiniPig plush toy. It's a soft, cuddly version of the famous pig!