Pigs as Family Pets

You and your family may be charmed with the thought of adding a pet pig to your home. Many people have moved forward with finding their new pet, yet not taken the steps to provide appropriately for their pig. And themselves.

As small and unassuming as a small pig might seem, there are considerations that can make your new pet more comfortable. They can also create less worry and apprehension for you in the long run. Also, consider that your city or town may have regulations to be followed by pet pig owners. You'll want to know any requirements in advance of bringing your new pet home.

Maryann Miller, in Thinking About a Pig, says, "They are very fast learners. The house must be "pig proofed" and you will learn new things like not leaving your purse on the floor where a pig could get into candy, cosmetics, pins or medicine. A pig can use a doggy door to go outside at will to a safe fenced, dry and clean potty and exercise area. Young children must be made to understand that a pig is not a stuffed toy, but truly an animal to be respected."

Children in your home will eventually outgrow the stage of putting everything from crayons, marbles, coins, string and paperclips into their mouths. Your pet pig will always be enticed by these choking hazards. Fastidious housekeeping will become necessary in your home to maintain your pig's health and wellness.

The Joy of Pigs suggests that pet pigs, especially potbellied pigs, were first imported into the United States from Vietnam in 1985. They were originally intended for public display in zoos, but became a craze and still maintain their popularity as household pets. Pigs can be small and cute when you adopt or purchase them.

Know that realistically, they may become 300 pounds. Overfeeding can increase their weight. Watching their weight can help them maintain it somewhere between 100 and 150 pounds.

Your pet pig is smart and teachable. With proper training and guidance, you will be able to teach it to use a litter box, and walk beside you in your neighborhood to keep it healthy and fit. Playing with your pig will delight you, especially when it returns a toy that you've thrown across your room or yard. Dog-like habits can be encouraged, including snuggling near your chair or on your lap.

Your pig will be virtually non-allergenic to family members, clean, generally quiet, playful and clean. Regular grooming will help them maintain their odor-free hygiene. In hot weather or sweltering summer months always remember to provide plenty of fresh water for your pig to refresh in. Yes, a mud bath is also a good choice. Integration with household dogs or cats should be fairly easy to accomplish. Your pig will be mild mannered and want to be everyone's friend.

Veterinarian Lorrie Boldrick said, "There are more pigs around than one would guess." She sees an average of 5 miniature pot-bellied pigs each day, "so I'd say there are more than several hundred in Orange County (California) alone." And, in just the United States there are an estimated 40,000 family potbellied pigs. Because they've been abandoned and sheltered or adopted, Boldrick said, "Maybe 30% of the pigs I see are in their second homes." This is not devastating news to Raena Barry, founder of the National Committee on Pot-Bellied Pigs. "Pigs will be better cared for," she asserts.

Check with your local veterinarian before you bring a pig into your family. They may know of a well-mannered pig in need of your good home. Your vet will also advise you on nutrition needs and vaccinations to create and maitain good well being for your new family pet.

Call to schedule your pet's wellness or urgent care exam now: (952) 758-6722

Testimonials

  • We have been clients of New Prague Animal Care for over 13 years. They have provided exceptional and compassionate care for our “pack” (6 dogs and 3 cats). As a professional dog trainer, breeder of Best in Show and Master Hunter Retrievers as well an owner of multiple kennel/ doggy daycare facilities (30+ years), I have worked with numerous veterinary clinics both in the Twin Cities and nationwide. Dr. Steve and his crew rate among the finest I have worked with. The clinic has all of the fea

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    Show More - Kathryn N
  • My dad has taken all of his dogs there for years, and I take mine there as well. Dr. Lavalle's bedside manner is amazing, and his staff are so genuine and caring. I always have, and will continue referring people to take their pets here. They are hands down the best veterinary care in the area!

    - Amber C
  • Have taken our dogs to Dr. Lavallee for over 10 years and he is great with each of them. He and his staff are very caring and helpful.

    - Barb S
  • Middle of a snow storm a few days ago. My little puppy was injured. I live in Faribult. Vet offices were closed in town. They actually called me while in route to see if I was ok. They were so good with the puppy. The cost was very reasonable. Called today to see how everything was going. I really was very impressed with this office. I recommend this place.

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    Show More - Wendy E
  • Awesome experience! My pets love the care they get from Dr. Lavallee and his staff! They are not just a number; they care for them like my babies are family! Would highly recommend them!

    - SGGM
  • Found a 6-wk old kitten on the side of the highway and brought it in at 7pm on emergency basis. I was blown away by the compassion of Dr. Johnson's team. What a great experience. True animal people!

    - Anna H
  • Moved to New Prague and found this place for our dog.. Such great service, friendly staff, amazing Dr. and very accommodating to all of our needs!! Highly recommended by my pet family!!!

    - Kerri N
  • We love New Prague Animal Care, they are always so kind and caring, from the phone calls to when you walk in. We take our Siberian Husky Bandit in and he gets so much attention, well loved. We've had to take him in twice for emergencies, the in house testing was great, Dr. Johnson was able to resolve the issue almost immediately. I wouldn't take him anywhere else.

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    Show More - Myra C

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