The Ham That Barked

PETA is planning to erect its thought-provoking “puplet” billboard in Lincoln, Nebraska; Des Moines, Iowa; and Springfield, Illinois—areas that are known for intensive hog farming—to remind kids that if they love puppies, they shouldn’t eat pigs for Christmas dinner.

Pigs are a lot more like dogs than you might think. Piglets and puppies both love to play and have their ears scratched, and they can easily master skills such as sitting, fetching, and jumping. When in their natural surroundings—not on factory farms—pigs are social, playful, protective animals who bond with each other, make nests, relax in the sun, and cool off in the mud. Pigs are known to dream and recognize their own names, and they are thought to be more intelligent than 3-year-old human children. And just like kids—and dogs—pigs don’t want to be eaten.

To celebrate a compassionate Christmas, keep the ham off the table and whip up a pig-friendly feast with these holiday recipes.