Owning a pig can either be the beginning of a wonderful love affair or an overwhelming responsibility for which you may not be fully prepared. Since this will be a long-term relationship, it is wise to ask yourself a few serious questions to determine if you are ready to become a potbellied pig owner. Think about the following issues carefully. It is up to you to investigate thoroughly how a pig fits into your family. Through your research, you can make certain you are selecting the appropriate pet for your family. There are many sources to utilize while learning more about the pet pig, the Internet, books, talking to other pet pig owners and to reputable breeders. All of these will give you insight and information prior to adopting a pet potbellied pig. By using these resources, you and your new pet will have the opportunity for the future you both deserve.
As you research potbellied pigs, always be honest with yourself. Think about your community. Does your community have pet pig restrictions? It would be wise for you to contact your local animal control organization or city hall to make certain that your city has an ordinance allowing pet pigs. Many communities have restrictions, which include the pig’s size, numbers, neuter/spay requirements, the size of your yard, and if the pig is registered by a recognized National Potbellied Pig Registry.
Think about your home. Do you have the proper environment to adequately care for a Potbelly? Is your home arranged so that your pig can have its own place so that can easily be blocked off, if necessary? All pigs need somewhere they can call their own for discipline or if the household becomes too active. When you are not available to directly supervise your pet pig in you home, it is best to restrict the pig to an area of your house where it can do no harm. Pigs spend about 30% more time awake than a cat or dog, and are very inquisitive. If they are left alone in your home without supervision or stimulation, they may get themselves into trouble. Do you have a fenced outside area that will allow your pig outside time and space? Pigs have no defense against dog attack, so they need the protection of a fenced area so they can safely spend time outside in good weather and have a grassy area to use as their bathroom.
As well as the physical characteristics of your home and grounds, analyze your lifestyle. Are you gone a lot? Who will watch your pig? Potbellied pigs require a great deal of psychological care. They do not do well when left alone for long periods of time without attention. If you travel frequently and you do not have the time to give to your pig when you are home, you might want to consider adopting a different type of pet. As a companion pet, they require continuous love and attention.
How will the arrival of your pet piglet affect the other animals in your home? Piglets need to have special attention paid when they are introduced to the pet dog and other family pets. In addition, your current pets may require a little more love and care during the transition period.
Do you have the time necessary to properly train your pig? It is extremely important that you train your piglet from the very first moment. This can be a fun and challenging experience. Potbellied pigs have amazingly high IQs and need stimulation from those around them. Most pigs get into trouble because their owners do not provide them the proper training and stimulation they need to live happily in their new home. If you do not have the time to spend in training your pig, then a pig is not the right pet for you.
Be sure and talk to breeders and other pet pig owners. Ask many questions. Remember that there are no stupid questions. Conscientious breeders will eagerly answer your questions and share their experience and knowledge with you. It is best to change your mind about owning a potbellied pig before you adopt a pig.
It is recommended that you adopt a piglet from a responsible and well-respected breeder. The risk is too great to your family to deal with breeders who are in question. Responsible breeders are concerned with the betterment of the breed. They work hard to breed only healthy, happy piglets, both mentally and physically. You can tell if you are talking to a reputable breeder because they will give you the same information. Should you talk to a breeder, who is out of line regarding price, size, feeding instructions, or how to socialize and care for your baby piglet as it grows up, it would be very wise to not adopt a piglet from that breeder. Also all reputable breeders have guarantees attached to their pigs and provide ongoing consultation to their pet owners.
After you have chosen a breeder, screen her carefully. Visit the breeder's home, if possible, so that you can see the parents of her piglets. Notice how the pigs and breeder interact. Do the breeder's own pigs act friendly to her, or do they shy away? Should you be unable to visit the breeder's home then do the next best thing and talk to other people who have adopted piglets from this breeder. The breeder is always willing to give you a list of her other pet owners and how to contact them, of course with the pet owner’s permission. Also, realize the responsible breeder is screening you too. She wants to make sure her piglets go to the very best possible home. If the breeder seems too anxious to place her piglets, this could be another warning sign to you.
This is not the time to hunt for a bargain. Your new pig will be a member of your family for up to fifteen years, so you certainly want to make a wise investment. Realize that each breeder has individual pricing policies. Generally, breeders who are dedicated to producing pigs of excellent quality and who properly care for all of their pigs can demand a higher price. Remember you get what you pay for. Paying a higher price for a piglet that has been registered, vaccinated, socialized, spayed/neutered and cared for properly from birth by a reputable breeder will be well worth it. You are adopting the breeder as well as the piglet. Make sure that you feel good about the communication you establish with your breeder. You will be contacting her throughout your pig's life for more advice.
The purchase price of your pig is not the only cost you have to consider. The piglet you take into your family will need proper care such as food, health care (vaccinations, wormings and tusk and hoof trimmings). Your piglet should be spayed or neutered by the breeder prior to placement in your home. It is up to you to provide a bed, harness, leash and bowls. Establish the cost of properly caring for a pig in your area, evaluate your budget and ask yourself if you really can afford a potbellied pig.
After answering these questions and educating yourself about potbellied pigs, you are finally ready to decide if a pig is the right pet for you and your family. There is no doubt that there is nothing cuter than a baby piglet, but remember this is a living being and a huge responsibility. They definitely require time and attention. They can be an excellent choice for people who truly love small children and animals. Potbellied pigs are gentle and loving creatures, but are not for every family.
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