Thinking about the welfare of potbellied pigs, responsible breeders have diligently responded for years to questions posed by potential pig owners. Believing that education is the key to a happy home for both human and pig, breeders have gathered the appropriate, correct, and documented answers to as many questions as they can. The responsible breeder is at the top of the potbellied pig information pyramid. She has the ability to help a family decide if a potbellied pig is the right addition to their home by accurately describing the pros and cons of being a pig owner and the characteristics of the pet pig. Unfortunately, some people who breed pigs seem to have as their goals the mass production and selling of their pigs to whomever comes along. These breeders often misrepresent the size of their piglets. Some produce genetically inferior piglets due to line breeding. The "rule of thumb" for breeding pigs is no closer than four generations - each generation "in" produces a 10% increase in birth defects. There are breeders online who have a "pig store" set up. Do you really want to purchase your piglet for someone who can sell the piglet without even talking to you? There are also breeders who will take your money and often do not even send the piglet. These people do not to have the health, care and welfare of their potbellies or their new families as a primary concern. Some breeders place their pigs in homes under the worst of circumstances - No vaccinations, No spay or neuter, No clean pig facilities, No ongoing support and No knowledge of the parentage. Sometimes these people adopt their piglets at the amazingly young age of 2 to 3 weeks. Some of these piglets do not survive, some of them have severe health problems and some have behavior problems that develop as they grow older.
On the other hand, the responsible breeder is available not only to her own clients, but to all those people in need of assistance. It really does not make any difference to her if she did or did not place one of her pigs in that questioning pet home. She truly loves her potbellies so much that, in her heart of hearts, she wants only the best for her pigs and the families who adopt them. She spends hundreds of hours each month taking care of her wonderful pigs and offering help to anyone who asks. She gives her clients the support and knowledge from her years of experience. In addition, if she is not sure of the answer, she is pleased and happy to help them find the information they need. One key issue in identifying a responsible breeder is she never, ever misrepresents her pigs. She tells people the truth about her pigs’ size, their temperaments, and the care and maintenance they need. In most cases, it is misinformation and lack of knowledge that produces a negative experience for potbellies and their pet owners.
An experienced breeder is an excellent source for a well-bred, healthy potbellied pig. Responsible breeders are dedicated to carefully selecting the right parents for each litter of piglets, so that each baby pig will be both physically and mentally healthy. By adopting a piglet directly from a breeder, the prospective pig owner is able to interact with the piglet’s mom and dad. In general, the prospective pet owner can see for himself what the future holds when he takes the piglet home. If the prospective pet owner is unable to come to the breeder’s home then he can ask for a list of references from his chosen breeder. With their client’s permission, all reputable breeders are more then willing to provide the names of other pet owners who have adopted their pigs.
When a pet owner adopts a piglet, he becomes a member of the breeder’s extended family. Feeling comfortable and being in good communication with the breeder is critical. Reputable breeders expect a call if a pig is in crisis, no matter what the age. Due to the breeder’s extensive experience in the care of pet pigs, the pet owner can expect to obtain information from her that will help him to understand and cope with any problems that might arise. The breeder’s support is especially helpful for the first time pig owner. No matter what, the conscientious breeder will be there to assist you.
In seeking out breeders who are knowledgeable about pet pigs, it is wise for the prospective pet owner to talk to as many qualified breeders as possible. Make sure to feel very comfortable with how she cares for her pigs and her knowledge about pig behavior. Should the prospective pet owner be lucky enough to visit the breeder, be sure the premises are clean and all the pigs are well cared for. The adult pigs should appear healthy and have good temperaments. The piglets should be clean, well fed, lively, and without visible signs of illness, such as runny nose or eyes, or lameness.
It is wise to make out a list of questions for the breeder prior to talking to her. Include questions about genetic problems as well as guarantees offered. The prospective pet owner should feel good about the breeder and believe that she is honest, straightforward and not evasive.
When asking questions of breeders, the prospective pet owner should hear basically the same information from each reputable breeder asked. If a breeder is encountered who gives information that does not seem to be the same the information heard from other breeders, then do not get a pig from that breeder.
A responsible breeder will ask many questions of the prospective pig owner as well. These questions assure the breeder that the piglet is going to the proper home. In short, be certain the breeder is someone who is concerned about the welfare of all of her pigs.
Sometimes the chosen breeder does not currently have piglets available. It is much better to have your name put on that breeder’s piglet waiting list, than it is to purchase a piglet from a breeder in whom you are not satisfied. A healthy pig will be a part of your family for many years to come; therefore, the delay of a few months should make little or no difference in choosing your breeder.
After selecting your pet pig, your breeder will give you oral and written information about the care, training and feeding of your new pet. The breeder will include a vaccination schedule for the pig, as well as some type of health and genetic defect guarantees. You will receive a piglet litter paper, which is used to permanently register your pig. Most communities require that the potbelly pig be registered.
Upon the arrival of the piglet, immediately take your pig to a veterinarian who is familiar with the care of potbellied pigs so that the pig can be examined for any physical problems. Remember, all agreements should be in writing and be signed and dated by both the breeder and the buyer.
Choosing the right pig, and most importantly the right breeder can help ensure many years of pleasure for you, your family, and your newest addition, your pig.
©Copyright - All Rights Reserved