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Is a Pig Right for You? Part 5

Is a Pig Right for You? Part 5

Alice Ashburn

May 2, 2015

Can I take my pig on vacation?

Yes, some pigs can travel well, but you have to prepare them. Practice riding in the car long before your vacation. Secure your pig inside an airline kennel and don’t let them ride loose in the car. AAA auto service and pet friendly web sites have lists of pet-friendly motels. If you take your pig out of state you will need a health certificate.
Can I board my pig at a dog kennel?

Some kennels will take pigs, but most are not designed to accommodate a pig. Pigs don’t do very well if kept on cement, especially wet cement for any length of time. You are better off hiring a pet-sitter or boarding your pig at The Lodge at Ross Mill Farm’s Piggy Camp.
Do potbellied pigs come in different colors?

Potbellied pigs come in a variety of colors including black, white, red/brown and pinto. Most potbellied pigs are black with white markings. White pigs are hardest to maintain because they sunburn easily and easily show dirt. They are also prone to drippy eyes.
Do potbellied pigs shed?

Yes and no. Pigs do not shed the way dogs shed. Most pigs will “blow” their coats once or twice a year. They will loose all their hair in the summer months and it will reappear by winter.
Should I get a male or female pig?

Once a male pig has been castrated and a female has been spayed, there is very little difference between the two. It is all a matter of personal preference.
I’ve heard that two pigs are better than one. Is that true?

Through our many adoptions, we find that pigs do better in pairs or small groups. While a single pig can make a fine companion, when they reach maturity they can sometimes start to exhibit undesirable behavior. This rarely happens in a two-pig household. Pigs, being herd animals, seem to do better when they have another pig around. Most people with two pigs report that it is easier to keep two than one. We recommend getting accustomed to your first pig then adopting a second one a short time later. We can help you find the right companion for your pig as well as help you introducing two pigs together.
Where can I find out more about potbellied pigs as pets?

There are many books, magazines and websites that are packed with information. Ross Mill Farm recommends reading Potbellied Pig Parenting by Nancy Shepherd. Also, do an Internet search on “pet pigs”, “potbellied pigs”, “miniature pigs” and you will not be disappointed.
Once I’ve determined that a potbellied pig is right for me, how do I go about getting a pet pig?

Contact a legitimate sanctuary, or rescue group, they will help you find the piggy of your dreams! We recommend that you adopt a pig from a sanctuary or rescue program like www.pigplacementnetwork.com. Or if you prefer to get a pig through a breeder, check www.petpigs.com for breeders that follow a code of ethics. There are many wonderful pigs just waiting to go home with you!
Alice Ashburn

10 years, 7 months ago

Alice Ashburn added a photo to Is a Pig Right for You? Part 5.

Alice Ashburn

10 years, 7 months ago

Alice Ashburn added a photo to Is a Pig Right for You? Part 5.

Alice Ashburn

10 years, 7 months ago

Is a Pig Right for You? Part 5 was added to BestInShow.