In an enchanting tale of love and laughter, Mina Alali shares how her Vietnamese pot-bellied pig, Merlin, has not only brought joy into her life but also played a surprising role in her journey towards finding true love. The bond between human and animal can often be profound, but Mina’s connection with Merlin proves just how transformative that relationship can be.
A Dream Come True
Mina’s home in Sacramento, California, is a bustling sanctuary filled with an array of animals, including dogs, chickens, a pigeon, a bearded dragon, three rats, and two rescue cows. Yet, it is Merlin, her mischievous mini Vietnamese pot-bellied pig, who holds a special place in her heart.
Having harboured a long-standing fascination with pigs, Mina’s emotional visits to animal sanctuaries only deepened her desire to welcome one into her life. “I always knew how intelligent they were,” she recalls, reminiscing about her determination to adopt a pig one day.
When she finally brought Merlin home in March 2020 at just two-and-a-half months old, he was the embodiment of cuteness. Despite his adorable exterior, Merlin has a sassy side; when things don’t go his way, he has been known to unplug devices and slam doors—traits reminiscent of an 180lb toddler!
Life with Merlin: A Daily Adventure
Initially living in an apartment, Mina often worried about noise complaints due to Merlin’s expressive squeals when hungry or frustrated. Yet, his remarkable intelligence quickly became apparent. Pigs are renowned for being exceptionally clever, and Merlin proved this by mastering tricks like spinning, shaking, and giving high-fives in less than ten minutes, especially when treats were involved.
His palate is as discerning as his personality, with a preference for fruits—especially bananas, which he adores. To enhance their communication, Mina has equipped Merlin with a unique set of buttons that play recordings of her voice, allowing him to express his needs. Whether he wants a treat or simply to summon Al Capone, their pet pigeon, Merlin has become quite the communicator.
With millions of dedicated fans online, Merlin recently achieved a Guinness World Record for having the most Instagram followers for a pig, boasting 1.1 million followers at the time, a number that has since risen to 1.2 million. Mina has turned their everyday antics into captivating videos, sharing their joyful life with the world.
A Love Story Written in Pigs
Mina’s connection with Merlin has not only enriched her life but has also led to an unexpected romance. Her fiancé discovered her through one of Merlin’s videos, boldly reaching out with a charming proposition: “I want to marry you.” A year later, they were engaged, solidifying the notion that Merlin has played a pivotal role in Mina’s happiness.
Mina often faces questions about her unconventional pet and the challenges that come with having such a vocal companion. Some wonder if she’d prefer to take away his buttons, but for her, that would be unthinkable. “I consider them his voice box,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of understanding and communication in her relationship with Merlin.
Lessons in Love and Understanding
Merlin has imparted invaluable lessons to Mina about love and patience. “If we give animals time and love, and try to understand them, they will reciprocate that love tenfold,” she reflects. This philosophy not only applies to her bond with Merlin but extends to all the creatures that share her home.
As Mina navigates the beautiful chaos of her life, she remains grateful for the unique experiences that Merlin has brought into her world.
Why it Matters
Mina and Merlin’s story highlights the profound connections that can exist between humans and animals, illustrating how these relationships can influence personal growth and happiness. In a world where companionship takes many forms, the joy and chaos brought by a pet can lead to unexpected blessings, proving that love can often come from the most unexpected places.
