Community Searches for Runaway Pig and Dog After Their Escape From Virginia Farm

Prince William County, Virginia, USA — September 27, 2026

A runaway pig and a livestock guardian dog sparked a community-wide search in Virginia after escaping from a farm together, with neighbors, police and animal control officers working to bring the animals home safely.

Pig and Dog Escape Together

The animals, a pig named Charlie Bacon and a Great Pyrenees dog named Rip, lived together on a small farm in the Manassas area of Prince William County.

Charlie had escaped from the farm several times before, but his owner, Jennifer Macri, said Rip normally stayed in the yard and watched over the other animals.

When Charlie escaped again, Rip followed him. The pair then traveled away from the farm and toward nearby roads.

Neighbors Join the Search

Macri contacted local animal control officials and asked for help while she was away on a business trip.

Brenda Conway, who runs a local lost-and-found pets community, also joined the search. Residents began sharing sightings of the pig and dog on social media as the animals moved through the area.

Police officers and animal control personnel eventually joined the effort, with officers searching roads and wooded areas where the animals had been seen.

Pig Is Safely Captured

After several hours, police officers managed to catch Charlie. The pig was taken into custody and later returned to his owner.

However, Rip had continued running after the two animals became separated.

Search Ends in Tragedy

During the search, authorities learned that Rip had been struck by a vehicle. People later found the dog near Dale Boulevard and Trident Lane.

Rip died from his injuries, according to his owner.

Macri said Rip had been closely bonded with Charlie and regularly protected him from the other animals in the barnyard.

Charlie Returns Home

Charlie was eventually reunited with his owner and was temporarily kept inside the house while repairs were made to the farm’s fencing.

Macri said her family was devastated by Rip’s death, particularly her young son, who had been very close to the dog.

The search brought together neighbors, animal lovers, police officers and animal control workers in an effort to safely recover the two animals after their unexpected escape.

Sources

• The Washington Post — A pig named Charlie and dog named Rip escaped together. Only one made it home. — September 27, 2026.