tell me about living with a pig

[lneill84]

I have been interested in getting a pig for awhile. I just started to research them-not looking to purchase for at least a year. Tell me about them-I've read the sites, etc., but they don't give a good indication of what they are like as pets (its either "I have 14 in my house and they are great!" or "horrible house pets"). Any books and websites would be awesome too. Thanks guys!

[gwildlifeguy05]

They are WONDERFUL! Each has his/her own unique personality.

The happiest pigs seem to be those that can go both indoors and out....they like living inside (and can be GREAT indoor companions when they learn good house manners!) but need to get outside each day...to use the potty...to root around...and just be a pig!

Our Charlie is an indoor/outdoor pig. We have a large, vinyl sided shed with windows and built a stall for her inside. There is a doghouse in her stall stuffed with straw. There is a flap that leads to her pen, which is very large. Charlie stays in our home during inclement/cold weather and at night. By being outside, Charlie gets to be nosy, root, graze a little and lie in the sunshine. That will ultimately make her a better housepet, as she will have an outlet for rooting...her outside time....pigs that are kept solely indoors can become bored and destructive if given no stimulation.

Picture what it's like living with a young child. They are curious and can get into everything. They need boundaries set. That is what it's like living with a pig. Pig proofing is a MUST....they need diversions.....they need a good, healthy diet...they are very smart and do well with training. It keeps their minds sharp and occupied.

Keep researching! The more you learn, the better pig parent you will be! You will also want to check with our township zoning board to be sure your township is zoned to have a potbellied pig. I am in NJ as well and work with Pig Placement Network (I maintain one of their websites.) You can check them out at:

http://www.pigplacementnetwork.com/

http://www.petfinder.org/shelters/NJ108.html

Greg