Read Before You Add A Mini Pig To Your Family
A "must read" if you are thinking of getting a pig!!
Every single day someone is "rehoming" their pig because they lost interest, don't have time, getting divorced or married or having a baby or they weren't zoned to have one to begin with. This is a post by someone who has cleaned up the after effects of someone who got a pig and probably should have researched more. It is raw emotions, I didn't edit one single word of this. Remember, most animal control centers are NOT well versed in caring for a pig, most actually have no idea how to care for one, but ALL of the rescues are bursting at the seams and can't take in any additional pigs. Please remember this when you bring a pig into your family. There is no where for them to go if you decide you no longer want your pig. This may all sound extremely harsh, and may be it is, but this is coming straight from a person who deals with emails and phone calls day after day asking if she will take their unwanted pig. That has to weigh heavy on the heart. (Posted with permission) Come "like" our Facebook page to see more educational information regarding the care of pet pigs. https://www.facebook.com/minipiginfo and don't forget to check out the rescue and sanctuary list to see how you can help by clicking here.
I don't usually go on a rant but can someone tell me, please, when will people begin to start taking responsibility for their actions? Every day there are more dumped (NO OTHER WORD APPLIES) pigs needing homes...threatened with being sent to shelters, slaughter, euthanasia, released in the woods, advertised free on Craigslist, etc...Some of these pigs are even only a couple of months old but the excuses are always the same...Only rarely are we asked to help someone with a legitimate need.
MOVING...really?? You had no idea when you got the pig a month or two ago that you'd be moving soon or evicted for getting caught with it??? But you'll move the dog and cat and abandon the pig. Why is that??
YOU'RE NOT ZONED...really?? So why did you not do your due diligence and check that out BEFORE getting that pig? It's not at all difficult. Can you dial a phone?
DON'T HAVE TIME FOR IT...really?? But the sanctuaries you expect to bail you out do? Most of us work full time to support the pigs we take in. Most of us are private and do not receive funding or grants to defray expenses. What makes you think we have more time to give your pig love and attention that you "can't". We work full time and then take on the full time job at home of caring for these pigs before and after our "regular" jobs. We're all pretty strapped for cuddle time with your little buddy that you "LOVE SO MUCH" but we're saving because you're dumping.
IT GOT TOO BIG...really?? You'd have to be some kind of STUPID to believe the lies of the breeders that a PIG will be 30 pounds as an adult. More than enough FACTUAL information is available that anyone with one iota of common sense won't fall for the insanity of "teacup/micro" pigs. Why did you not bother to do your research?
IT HAS BEHAVIORAL ISSUES...really?? News flash...if you're not willing to put in the time to properly train your pig you ...SHOULDN'T GET ONE!
OH...IT'S NOT SPAYED OR NEUTERED??...really?? That leads to behavioral issues...oh, but you can't afford to have it done. We can?? We're already paying vet bills on many pigs, not just one. It is your responsibility to provide the needed vet care for your pig, which includes spaying and neutering.
BUT YOU DON'T HAVE A VET...really?? Acquiring an animal 101...you need to find a vet FIRST. Don't wait until something is wrong and then, in a panic, post for help online. You'll get all KINDS of responses from the utterly useless and ridiculous to downright dangerous...and a few that are actually helpful or at least won't cause harm. Are you able to sort them out? That's what a VET is for. We can try to help but you absolutely need to have a vet.
IT'S DESTRUCTIVE...really?? A bored pig IS destructive. They need to be outside doing what pigs do, rooting in the dirt, wallowing, grazing, exploring.
BUT YOU HAVE NO YARD...really?? Then you shouldn't have a pig! You cannot expect a pig to live in an apartment day in and day out, maybe confined to a crate or bathroom, and not become bored and start to find the wrong kinds of things to do. Oh...and many full time indoor pigs also develop leg and foot problems because they're living on an unnatural surface.
YOU CAN'T KEEP IT CONTAINED...really?? Pigs require a GOOD fence to keep them home...an even better fence if they're not spayed or neutered. If you cannot/will not do what you need to do to contain it and keep it safe you have no business owning one. And a good fence is NOT a chain link dog kennel.
YOU'RE HAVING A BABY...really?? So that means you are saying you're incapable of fulfilling your responsibility to your pets?. Please don't have a second child. If you cannot handle a baby and a pet pig, you cannot manage a second child.
YOUR KID CAME HOME WITH IT/BOYFRIEND GAVE IT AS A GIFT...really?? And you don't approve. That's OK and the solution is simple. You pack that kid's a** in the car and take the pig BACK TO THE BREEDER and get the $$$ back. Better teach the kid UP FRONT that acquiring an animal isn't done on a whim than to teach the kid later that it's OK to dump that same animal when interest wanes or said kid goes on to college and you don't want the responsibility. Oh, but YOU bought it, that's different....then you do what's right and set a good example by keeping it for its entire natural LIFE! BTW...expect 12-15 years on average, even up to 20. Can't make that commitment? Then don't get the pig.
And last but not least...YOU WANT HELP WITH YOUR PIG and expert, experienced help/advice is offered, but it is not what YOU want to hear, so excuses are made, you get angry, and keep searching for someone to say what you want to hear, rather than what will actually resolve the problem. Suck it up and listen to the people who have dealt with these issues for a decade or two or three. If in fact you "love" the pig as you say, drop the ego and do what's right by the life you chose to bring into your home.
Written in 07/2015 by Dawn Camp, pig rescuer. Camp Skipping Pig Rescue and Sanctuary
I don't usually go on a rant but can someone tell me, please, when will people begin to start taking responsibility for their actions? Every day there are more dumped (NO OTHER WORD APPLIES) pigs needing homes...threatened with being sent to shelters, slaughter, euthanasia, released in the woods, advertised free on Craigslist, etc...Some of these pigs are even only a couple of months old but the excuses are always the same...Only rarely are we asked to help someone with a legitimate need.
MOVING...really?? You had no idea when you got the pig a month or two ago that you'd be moving soon or evicted for getting caught with it??? But you'll move the dog and cat and abandon the pig. Why is that??
YOU'RE NOT ZONED...really?? So why did you not do your due diligence and check that out BEFORE getting that pig? It's not at all difficult. Can you dial a phone?
DON'T HAVE TIME FOR IT...really?? But the sanctuaries you expect to bail you out do? Most of us work full time to support the pigs we take in. Most of us are private and do not receive funding or grants to defray expenses. What makes you think we have more time to give your pig love and attention that you "can't". We work full time and then take on the full time job at home of caring for these pigs before and after our "regular" jobs. We're all pretty strapped for cuddle time with your little buddy that you "LOVE SO MUCH" but we're saving because you're dumping.
IT GOT TOO BIG...really?? You'd have to be some kind of STUPID to believe the lies of the breeders that a PIG will be 30 pounds as an adult. More than enough FACTUAL information is available that anyone with one iota of common sense won't fall for the insanity of "teacup/micro" pigs. Why did you not bother to do your research?
IT HAS BEHAVIORAL ISSUES...really?? News flash...if you're not willing to put in the time to properly train your pig you ...SHOULDN'T GET ONE!
OH...IT'S NOT SPAYED OR NEUTERED??...really?? That leads to behavioral issues...oh, but you can't afford to have it done. We can?? We're already paying vet bills on many pigs, not just one. It is your responsibility to provide the needed vet care for your pig, which includes spaying and neutering.
BUT YOU DON'T HAVE A VET...really?? Acquiring an animal 101...you need to find a vet FIRST. Don't wait until something is wrong and then, in a panic, post for help online. You'll get all KINDS of responses from the utterly useless and ridiculous to downright dangerous...and a few that are actually helpful or at least won't cause harm. Are you able to sort them out? That's what a VET is for. We can try to help but you absolutely need to have a vet.
IT'S DESTRUCTIVE...really?? A bored pig IS destructive. They need to be outside doing what pigs do, rooting in the dirt, wallowing, grazing, exploring.
BUT YOU HAVE NO YARD...really?? Then you shouldn't have a pig! You cannot expect a pig to live in an apartment day in and day out, maybe confined to a crate or bathroom, and not become bored and start to find the wrong kinds of things to do. Oh...and many full time indoor pigs also develop leg and foot problems because they're living on an unnatural surface.
YOU CAN'T KEEP IT CONTAINED...really?? Pigs require a GOOD fence to keep them home...an even better fence if they're not spayed or neutered. If you cannot/will not do what you need to do to contain it and keep it safe you have no business owning one. And a good fence is NOT a chain link dog kennel.
YOU'RE HAVING A BABY...really?? So that means you are saying you're incapable of fulfilling your responsibility to your pets?. Please don't have a second child. If you cannot handle a baby and a pet pig, you cannot manage a second child.
YOUR KID CAME HOME WITH IT/BOYFRIEND GAVE IT AS A GIFT...really?? And you don't approve. That's OK and the solution is simple. You pack that kid's a** in the car and take the pig BACK TO THE BREEDER and get the $$$ back. Better teach the kid UP FRONT that acquiring an animal isn't done on a whim than to teach the kid later that it's OK to dump that same animal when interest wanes or said kid goes on to college and you don't want the responsibility. Oh, but YOU bought it, that's different....then you do what's right and set a good example by keeping it for its entire natural LIFE! BTW...expect 12-15 years on average, even up to 20. Can't make that commitment? Then don't get the pig.
And last but not least...YOU WANT HELP WITH YOUR PIG and expert, experienced help/advice is offered, but it is not what YOU want to hear, so excuses are made, you get angry, and keep searching for someone to say what you want to hear, rather than what will actually resolve the problem. Suck it up and listen to the people who have dealt with these issues for a decade or two or three. If in fact you "love" the pig as you say, drop the ego and do what's right by the life you chose to bring into your home.
Written in 07/2015 by Dawn Camp, pig rescuer. Camp Skipping Pig Rescue and Sanctuary
A Pig Rescue Writes An Open Letter To Potential Pig Parents
An open letter to anyone thinking of getting a pig
So You Want a Pet Pig?
Here is an open letter to all who are considering getting a pet pig. It was written by Sherry Burnett from January 17, 2015 and added to the website with her permission. Sherry runs Ruby Ranch Pig Sanctuary in Canada.
Thank you Sherry for a heartfelt and well said letter. Now, if only people will listen!
Click here to read what it is like to have a pig as a pet.
An open letter to anyone who is considering a pig for a pet.
In the last week alone, I have gotten 4 emails/messages from people wanting me to take their pig. My friend is picking up another one today that someone was going to surrender to the Humane Society, other friends worked so hard to save on from the same fate, only to have the person flake at the last second and stop responding to their texts. Other friends are furiously trying to make space for the onslaught of surrendered pigs. On average, I get about one request a week. That's just me, one sanctuary. There are 4 or 5 other local sanctuaries who get several weekly too. We can't keep up. What on earth is going to happen to all these pigs? No one, regardless of time or money, can keep up.
Please, if you are thinking of getting a pig, commit to their lifetime. If you get a baby, you are looking at 15-20 years caring for that pig. If you're nearing retirement age, are you going to want to travel? Because it's hard to find a pig-sitter. Pigs bond very strongly to their families, and don't take well to a stranger suddenly telling them what to do. No one knows what changes the future might bring, so be prepared to keep that pig against all odds. Because the odds are stacked against that pig ending up in a good, forever home.
Because they bond so strongly, re-homing is a huge stress for them. They truly grieve for their lost families, some of them for weeks, Refusing to eat or even get up, they will point their nose in a corner or lie at the gate, waiting for their people to come and get them.
A lot of people think their pig needs to be in a herd, and a sanctuary would be an ideal situation for them. Well, let me tell you this. Many pigs that come here from a single pig home, who have only known living in a house, DON'T do well at first, some of them take YEARS to fit in. Some never do. The other pigs pick on them, and they have no frame of reference as to how to deal with these other pigs. No matter the love and patience they get at a sanctuary, it can never equal what they got in your home. There are always many others who need attention. Even if they just move on to another home situation, it's hard on them. So many pigs are bounced from home to home, and with each bounce, they become less trusting, more apt to have behavioral problems that will likely just see them bounced again, unless they end up with someone with pig experience.
This group is to let people know that pigs grow up, they will not fit in a teacup for long, no matter what that breeder is trying to tell you. But there are many, many other things that you need to consider too, besides size.
A pig is not like a dog, he won't seamlessly adjust to living with you. Some of them act like they couldn't care less about you. (Those are often the ones who grieve the most when they are given up by the way) A pig may be the sweetest friend ever, to you and maybe your family members, but visitors are not welcome, and will be challenged.
Another big reason people give up their pigs is because they are moving, and it's almost impossible (almost!) to find a place to rent that allows pigs. You have to find a compassionate landlord, and then make sure the city/town you are moving to allows pigs.
People give up their pigs because they have conflicts with other pets. Some dogs just never accept the pig, and the pig will challenge the dog. Most pigs will want to be at the top of the hierarchy, and see the dog as a challenge to that. In all cases where the dog is bigger than the pig, the pig will lose the fight, sometimes with catastrophic results. Many small or compromised health dogs will be on the losing end, also with horrifying results.
Not enough time to spend with them is another big reason people give them up. An indoor pig has only you to entertain them. You are their world, and if you are going to be gone 12 hours a day, they will get anxious, and they will get into things. They'll tip over your garbage cans, they'll rip up your carpets, root holes in your drywall. They need you, or a pig companion. Or a pen outside where they can do pig stuff.
A lot of pigs end up homeless because of conflict with children. If you have small kids, or may have kids in the near future, they need to be taught how to deal with a pig, or they will be dominated.
People having an un-altered pig often leads to re-homing. A male has one thing on his mind, and for a week out of every month, so does a female. It makes them frantic, and males will have a strong musk, and their pee smells like a jungle beast. Please spay or neuter.
Please don't go into this decision lightly. Don't just visit a breeder's facility, visit a sanctuary, or someone you know who already has a pig. You won't learn anything about their behavior by seeing a litter of piglets, you need to see the adults, and not the pigs that the breeder is claiming are adults, because those pigs are almost never fully grown. They'll grow for the first 4 years of their life, and if the breeder is telling you the parents ARE 4 years or older, ask for proof.
Are there pigs that stay small? Small is relative. The smallest I have seen fully grown is 40 pounds. That is so rare. Count on anywhere from 80- 180. Breeders are definitely trying to breed smaller pigs, but that is often by breeding runt to runt, which causes many health problems in the babies. Even a 40 or 60 pound pig is not like having the equivalent sized dog. Pigs are strong, with dense bodies, and you can't just pick them up and move them, it's like trying to pick up a baby tiger. A 40 pound animal with an attitude is a handful. They can be skittish, territorial, destructive, but you are the center of their universe.
Please, please think long and hard before getting a pig. Unless you live in an apartment, then don't think about it at all.
Thanks for reading.
Here is an open letter to all who are considering getting a pet pig. It was written by Sherry Burnett from January 17, 2015 and added to the website with her permission. Sherry runs Ruby Ranch Pig Sanctuary in Canada.
Thank you Sherry for a heartfelt and well said letter. Now, if only people will listen!
Click here to read what it is like to have a pig as a pet.
An open letter to anyone who is considering a pig for a pet.
In the last week alone, I have gotten 4 emails/messages from people wanting me to take their pig. My friend is picking up another one today that someone was going to surrender to the Humane Society, other friends worked so hard to save on from the same fate, only to have the person flake at the last second and stop responding to their texts. Other friends are furiously trying to make space for the onslaught of surrendered pigs. On average, I get about one request a week. That's just me, one sanctuary. There are 4 or 5 other local sanctuaries who get several weekly too. We can't keep up. What on earth is going to happen to all these pigs? No one, regardless of time or money, can keep up.
Please, if you are thinking of getting a pig, commit to their lifetime. If you get a baby, you are looking at 15-20 years caring for that pig. If you're nearing retirement age, are you going to want to travel? Because it's hard to find a pig-sitter. Pigs bond very strongly to their families, and don't take well to a stranger suddenly telling them what to do. No one knows what changes the future might bring, so be prepared to keep that pig against all odds. Because the odds are stacked against that pig ending up in a good, forever home.
Because they bond so strongly, re-homing is a huge stress for them. They truly grieve for their lost families, some of them for weeks, Refusing to eat or even get up, they will point their nose in a corner or lie at the gate, waiting for their people to come and get them.
A lot of people think their pig needs to be in a herd, and a sanctuary would be an ideal situation for them. Well, let me tell you this. Many pigs that come here from a single pig home, who have only known living in a house, DON'T do well at first, some of them take YEARS to fit in. Some never do. The other pigs pick on them, and they have no frame of reference as to how to deal with these other pigs. No matter the love and patience they get at a sanctuary, it can never equal what they got in your home. There are always many others who need attention. Even if they just move on to another home situation, it's hard on them. So many pigs are bounced from home to home, and with each bounce, they become less trusting, more apt to have behavioral problems that will likely just see them bounced again, unless they end up with someone with pig experience.
This group is to let people know that pigs grow up, they will not fit in a teacup for long, no matter what that breeder is trying to tell you. But there are many, many other things that you need to consider too, besides size.
A pig is not like a dog, he won't seamlessly adjust to living with you. Some of them act like they couldn't care less about you. (Those are often the ones who grieve the most when they are given up by the way) A pig may be the sweetest friend ever, to you and maybe your family members, but visitors are not welcome, and will be challenged.
Another big reason people give up their pigs is because they are moving, and it's almost impossible (almost!) to find a place to rent that allows pigs. You have to find a compassionate landlord, and then make sure the city/town you are moving to allows pigs.
People give up their pigs because they have conflicts with other pets. Some dogs just never accept the pig, and the pig will challenge the dog. Most pigs will want to be at the top of the hierarchy, and see the dog as a challenge to that. In all cases where the dog is bigger than the pig, the pig will lose the fight, sometimes with catastrophic results. Many small or compromised health dogs will be on the losing end, also with horrifying results.
Not enough time to spend with them is another big reason people give them up. An indoor pig has only you to entertain them. You are their world, and if you are going to be gone 12 hours a day, they will get anxious, and they will get into things. They'll tip over your garbage cans, they'll rip up your carpets, root holes in your drywall. They need you, or a pig companion. Or a pen outside where they can do pig stuff.
A lot of pigs end up homeless because of conflict with children. If you have small kids, or may have kids in the near future, they need to be taught how to deal with a pig, or they will be dominated.
People having an un-altered pig often leads to re-homing. A male has one thing on his mind, and for a week out of every month, so does a female. It makes them frantic, and males will have a strong musk, and their pee smells like a jungle beast. Please spay or neuter.
Please don't go into this decision lightly. Don't just visit a breeder's facility, visit a sanctuary, or someone you know who already has a pig. You won't learn anything about their behavior by seeing a litter of piglets, you need to see the adults, and not the pigs that the breeder is claiming are adults, because those pigs are almost never fully grown. They'll grow for the first 4 years of their life, and if the breeder is telling you the parents ARE 4 years or older, ask for proof.
Are there pigs that stay small? Small is relative. The smallest I have seen fully grown is 40 pounds. That is so rare. Count on anywhere from 80- 180. Breeders are definitely trying to breed smaller pigs, but that is often by breeding runt to runt, which causes many health problems in the babies. Even a 40 or 60 pound pig is not like having the equivalent sized dog. Pigs are strong, with dense bodies, and you can't just pick them up and move them, it's like trying to pick up a baby tiger. A 40 pound animal with an attitude is a handful. They can be skittish, territorial, destructive, but you are the center of their universe.
Please, please think long and hard before getting a pig. Unless you live in an apartment, then don't think about it at all.
Thanks for reading.
What Life Is REALLY Like With A Pet Pig
Two blogs that show you realistically what life is like with a pet pig.
http://www.minipiginfo.com/dear-pig-whisperers-blog/what-is-it-really-like-to-have-a-pig-as-a-pet
http://imlateforworkagain.blogspot.com/2013/07/what-its-really-like-to-have-pot.
http://www.minipiginfo.com/dear-pig-whisperers-blog/what-is-it-really-like-to-have-a-pig-as-a-pet
http://imlateforworkagain.blogspot.com/2013/07/what-its-really-like-to-have-pot.
Snout Art from Buttercup the pig
And why people love their pigs so much!
As a pig owner, I was guilty of glamorizing having a pig as a pet. I didn't post the horror stories, only the cute things my sweet pig did. I didn't tell people that she started squealing at 5 am, then 4 am, finally 3 am to eat breakfast before i figured out that I needed to correct this type of behavior. I didn't post about the trash cans she knocked over and the ketchup stains on the white carpet. I also didn't post about her biting anyone who came into the room. I did post when she snuggled up to me ensuring someone captured it on film. I also posted pictures of the bike ride when she looked so cute riding in the bike cart. I did not post how awful it was to get her in there. If you think having a pig is all fun and cuddle time, you are wrong. People post about the life they want you to see, myself included. Life doesn't always work out the way we want it to, and that sucks, but it is what it is. Pigs are not ideal pets for everyone because they are so time consuming. They require attention and love and training. Pigs train their human parents way before people start training their pet pigs. But please don't think that your pig is the odd ball because he or she doesn't want to lay with you. Most pigs don't want to lay with their humans. People will show you snippets of their life with a pig, but not usually all of it. I learned to share the good, bad and ugly when someone from the pig rescue world told me that I was one of the reasons why there were so many unwanted pigs. (not quite so harshly stated, but the point was well received) People oohing and ahhing over the super cute pictures I was posting and making comments like "OMG, I want one" or "They are so cute, I plan to get one too". Little did they know all the ins and outs. Once that person reached out to me (because I post a lot) and let me know how those messages were likely being perceived, I thought about it, and they were absolutely 100% correct. I still see comments from people new to pig world that ask, Why won't my pig lay with me, everyones pigs lounge around with their mama or daddy and my pig doesn't want anything to do with me. I make the same general comment each time....your pig is being a pig. When your pig wants to lay down, it will, if that happens to be in the same area you're in, you may be able to get exactly 8 seconds to quickly capture this iconic picture you want. Then your pig will get up and search for more food. It's the same thing the rest of our pigs do. When I have friends that claim they want a pig, I invite them over to meet mine. That usually does the trick.
The promises I made my pig are simple. She will always have a home. I will always love her regardless of how she acts. I will always attempt to be on time with meals. She will always be special to me. If I move, she will move with me. If she is sick, I will do my best to make her well. If she needs a vet, I will call one to come see her. If she needs anything, I will work harder to provide it for her. If she doesn't like someone, they are not welcome in my home. If someone hurts my pig, I will be their worst nightmare. She will always be treated as if I gave birth to her, one of the kids. If you do these things for your child, you should do them for your pig. Click here to read our blog about promises you should have made to your pig. If you cannot make these basic promises, you should reconsider getting a pig to begin with.
I recently asked some people why they loved having a pet pig. This is their responses.
"For me.. it's the way Spamala looks at me, Like we speak on a different level, Yes, my dogs understand my feelings and know when something is wrong... But With Spamala... when she knows, it's like a conversation that only her and I hear... Of course her being cuter then anything helps too"
"I'm an animal lover but never realized how deeply connected I'd be to Charles!! I try not to be negative when people ask me about owning a pig and at the same time, I try to be honest about the struggles I've gone through. I always tell them that he's been my biggest challenge, even included a few tears, but also my most rewarding!”
“The love and trust...melts my heart when they flop over for a belly rub.”
“For us there's nothing to compare to the love we have for our babies. When Bella came into out lives, she changed our world for the better. She gave Avery a reason to get out of bed and smile every morning. He is wonderful with them and I will never live without a pig...or two again.”
“In my case I grew up with goats and sheep ...I always dreamed of having a pig as a kid we used to go to fairs with pig races and I could hardly leave that spot. I won $1000 on a scratch ticket and impulsively bought myself a pig it was rough at first, but the love is like no other. It is a bond that I can only explain to be much like the love for my son. Our only child is now 13 and too cool for us but my pigs will never think I'm not cool. My boys are my life”
“Its different for both my pigs, we have had kitty for 3mths, she’s amazing, she loves unconditionally and loves everyone, she has so many cuddles to give. Boris is totally different, we took him in after living in a crate for his first 2yrs, he is reserved, but he is a gentleman, he’s so quiet and well behaved but is frightened of anyone new, I have learned his boundaries and have learned to respect them, he has taught me to be more patient.”
“For me it's like having a toddler child again. And I LOVED that phase of motherhood!”
“Well, I actually got Sammy The Hammy 10 years ago because where I was living at the time they didn't allow dogs. I had to sneak my dog in every night. Well, when my baby girl passed away I needed to fill my heart up again. So, what do I get if I can't have a dog in my apt.... Well, it said NOWHERE in the lease that I couldn't have a PIG So, that's the absolute true story of how Sammy came about As for the positives... I have to tell you the truth... I don't have any negatives when it comes to Sammy. He has been the light of my life! He takes care of all my other 40 animals & certainly takes care of me. The bond we have I can not even be explained to a non pig owner.”
“How much my baby girl loves me. The kisses and hugs, how she knows when I'm really sick, sometimes even before I know I'm sick. I feel like she gives me purpose. We talk to each other and we even argue sometimes, but she always haha's at me.”
“They're so cuddly!!! It's my favorite part!”
“My pigs have taught me patience that I never knew I had and it has made a difference in my life. They have helped with my depression. And when I am sad all I need to do is see their sweet faces and I smile. They are the best cuddlers. They give me a reason to get up on some days that I don't want to. They eat all the leftovers from the fridge. They till the soil. Go places with me in the car. They give me something happy to think about everyday...who in this group doesn't think about pigs daily? My pigs are not only my pets but my hobby and also my best friends.”
“Lulu was my first piggy, my baby girl, when I got lulu I was battling with depression, having. A tragic family loss and trying to juggle all that in 15 year old, highschool bs and well that wonderful age, lulu came to me at the best time, because she brought my heart and life so much joy, knowing I had this little piglet depending on me each and every day, those little hooves racing around the house, would make me smile. Lulu gave me much more than what I could ever give her, by giving my life reason, she's been with me through the worst years of being a teenager, my first breakup, she taught me to be patient (which I so wasn't before). She opens my world to all of you, you many friends I would have never even met, watching lulu grow up and learn and do some crazy piggy things, and not long after we added bruno, between bruno and lulu they helped each other, even at times I wanted to pull my hair out them little things they do you cant help but smile, my pigs are my children, I am building my life around them to benefit them and give them the best life I can, knowing when I'm sad they’re there to comfort me, if it wasn't for lulu and Bruno there would have been no way I would have taken on 2 more pigs to now have 4! And I tell you everyday is a day to remember because there is something new they teach me! I could never explain how much my babies have changed my life for the better, I can honestly say I wouldn't be the adult I am today without them, the Liz most you know wouldn't have been this girl, my pig were my blessing, and I plan on being theirs! They’re my best friends my children and truly my life!”
“I love that they act like my kids did when they were little. It has helped me since my kids are all teenagers and never want me around.”
“The adorable and deeply felt emotions they have are what is so great to me. Hamlet stands at his pen and just smiles when he sees me walking out to him. Charlee looks up at me when we're hanging together just as if to say, "I feel better knowing my mommy's right here." They both are such sweeties and even when I'm mad at them, their stink eye is cute, too!”
“For us it's the connection my son has with pigs. My son shows interest, can hand feed and pet our pig. He barely notices our cat and any other animal wouldn't be a good choice because he moves too fast and doesn't understand personal space. Our pig keeps him in check. If he does something she doesn't approve of she lets him know in her own way. They are almost like siblings because she is so smart!”
“Getting halfway home from work and realizing, "IN 15 MINUTES I'M GOING TO GET A BISCUIT KISS"! Her climbing and snorking up her piggy ramp when I get into bed to tuck herself in the crook of my arm to go to sleep. Having her go to the end of the bed, under the covers after cuddles to sleep between my feet, and finding her on my pillow with me at 5:00 a.m. with one eyeball peeking at me. When I open my eyes, I get big piggy snout kisses. Friends coming over to play with her and she looks to me to tell her it's "okay" before she goes to them. When she scratches herself on the side of the litter box and falls over with glee. I could go on and on and on...”
“It's the love and connection we have. He makes us so happy. He is loving and sweet. He even sleeps in our bed and HAS to be touching us (and snuggled) to sleep.”
“I always share both and adding we can pig proof, and come to laugh at their "special" quirks! Lol”
“Sleeping with me at night and having to touch me all the time. The constant squeaks whenever I talked to her. Barking whenever she ran through the yard. Always played fetch with me because she knew mommy would get her a treat. Made the paper every summer for being "sum pig". Watching animal planet all day whenever I was sick.”
“I love that they talk back and forth with you. One thing I really love is the fact that they get to know you so well and respond to your emotions. Every night they climb on the couch and cuddle up to my family and me before bedtime. All three of my pigs are VERY different but I love them all equally.”
“It is the deep connection with them. I love all of my animals, but there is something unique about the odds. Their emotions and behaviors, even the bad are so human like. And getting to watch them interact with one another just boggles my mind. They amaze me daily. Those are the things I love. I will share a quick story.
"I lost my step brother recently. I was really upset, but went to try and love on the babies as usual. I truly tried to act normal. But they knew each group did exact same thing and behaved in a way I have never seen. As I went to each group in sat down. Normally they argue as to who is going to get the attention. Instead they literally circled me, making sure they were touching me and all just layed down. It wasn't a fluke as each group did it. No arguing or vying for attention. They were making sure I knew I was supported. They were quiet, and just laid against me. They are so empathetic. These are all the reasons I love my babies”
The promises I made my pig are simple. She will always have a home. I will always love her regardless of how she acts. I will always attempt to be on time with meals. She will always be special to me. If I move, she will move with me. If she is sick, I will do my best to make her well. If she needs a vet, I will call one to come see her. If she needs anything, I will work harder to provide it for her. If she doesn't like someone, they are not welcome in my home. If someone hurts my pig, I will be their worst nightmare. She will always be treated as if I gave birth to her, one of the kids. If you do these things for your child, you should do them for your pig. Click here to read our blog about promises you should have made to your pig. If you cannot make these basic promises, you should reconsider getting a pig to begin with.
I recently asked some people why they loved having a pet pig. This is their responses.
"For me.. it's the way Spamala looks at me, Like we speak on a different level, Yes, my dogs understand my feelings and know when something is wrong... But With Spamala... when she knows, it's like a conversation that only her and I hear... Of course her being cuter then anything helps too"
"I'm an animal lover but never realized how deeply connected I'd be to Charles!! I try not to be negative when people ask me about owning a pig and at the same time, I try to be honest about the struggles I've gone through. I always tell them that he's been my biggest challenge, even included a few tears, but also my most rewarding!”
“The love and trust...melts my heart when they flop over for a belly rub.”
“For us there's nothing to compare to the love we have for our babies. When Bella came into out lives, she changed our world for the better. She gave Avery a reason to get out of bed and smile every morning. He is wonderful with them and I will never live without a pig...or two again.”
“In my case I grew up with goats and sheep ...I always dreamed of having a pig as a kid we used to go to fairs with pig races and I could hardly leave that spot. I won $1000 on a scratch ticket and impulsively bought myself a pig it was rough at first, but the love is like no other. It is a bond that I can only explain to be much like the love for my son. Our only child is now 13 and too cool for us but my pigs will never think I'm not cool. My boys are my life”
“Its different for both my pigs, we have had kitty for 3mths, she’s amazing, she loves unconditionally and loves everyone, she has so many cuddles to give. Boris is totally different, we took him in after living in a crate for his first 2yrs, he is reserved, but he is a gentleman, he’s so quiet and well behaved but is frightened of anyone new, I have learned his boundaries and have learned to respect them, he has taught me to be more patient.”
“For me it's like having a toddler child again. And I LOVED that phase of motherhood!”
“Well, I actually got Sammy The Hammy 10 years ago because where I was living at the time they didn't allow dogs. I had to sneak my dog in every night. Well, when my baby girl passed away I needed to fill my heart up again. So, what do I get if I can't have a dog in my apt.... Well, it said NOWHERE in the lease that I couldn't have a PIG So, that's the absolute true story of how Sammy came about As for the positives... I have to tell you the truth... I don't have any negatives when it comes to Sammy. He has been the light of my life! He takes care of all my other 40 animals & certainly takes care of me. The bond we have I can not even be explained to a non pig owner.”
“How much my baby girl loves me. The kisses and hugs, how she knows when I'm really sick, sometimes even before I know I'm sick. I feel like she gives me purpose. We talk to each other and we even argue sometimes, but she always haha's at me.”
“They're so cuddly!!! It's my favorite part!”
“My pigs have taught me patience that I never knew I had and it has made a difference in my life. They have helped with my depression. And when I am sad all I need to do is see their sweet faces and I smile. They are the best cuddlers. They give me a reason to get up on some days that I don't want to. They eat all the leftovers from the fridge. They till the soil. Go places with me in the car. They give me something happy to think about everyday...who in this group doesn't think about pigs daily? My pigs are not only my pets but my hobby and also my best friends.”
“Lulu was my first piggy, my baby girl, when I got lulu I was battling with depression, having. A tragic family loss and trying to juggle all that in 15 year old, highschool bs and well that wonderful age, lulu came to me at the best time, because she brought my heart and life so much joy, knowing I had this little piglet depending on me each and every day, those little hooves racing around the house, would make me smile. Lulu gave me much more than what I could ever give her, by giving my life reason, she's been with me through the worst years of being a teenager, my first breakup, she taught me to be patient (which I so wasn't before). She opens my world to all of you, you many friends I would have never even met, watching lulu grow up and learn and do some crazy piggy things, and not long after we added bruno, between bruno and lulu they helped each other, even at times I wanted to pull my hair out them little things they do you cant help but smile, my pigs are my children, I am building my life around them to benefit them and give them the best life I can, knowing when I'm sad they’re there to comfort me, if it wasn't for lulu and Bruno there would have been no way I would have taken on 2 more pigs to now have 4! And I tell you everyday is a day to remember because there is something new they teach me! I could never explain how much my babies have changed my life for the better, I can honestly say I wouldn't be the adult I am today without them, the Liz most you know wouldn't have been this girl, my pig were my blessing, and I plan on being theirs! They’re my best friends my children and truly my life!”
“I love that they act like my kids did when they were little. It has helped me since my kids are all teenagers and never want me around.”
“The adorable and deeply felt emotions they have are what is so great to me. Hamlet stands at his pen and just smiles when he sees me walking out to him. Charlee looks up at me when we're hanging together just as if to say, "I feel better knowing my mommy's right here." They both are such sweeties and even when I'm mad at them, their stink eye is cute, too!”
“For us it's the connection my son has with pigs. My son shows interest, can hand feed and pet our pig. He barely notices our cat and any other animal wouldn't be a good choice because he moves too fast and doesn't understand personal space. Our pig keeps him in check. If he does something she doesn't approve of she lets him know in her own way. They are almost like siblings because she is so smart!”
“Getting halfway home from work and realizing, "IN 15 MINUTES I'M GOING TO GET A BISCUIT KISS"! Her climbing and snorking up her piggy ramp when I get into bed to tuck herself in the crook of my arm to go to sleep. Having her go to the end of the bed, under the covers after cuddles to sleep between my feet, and finding her on my pillow with me at 5:00 a.m. with one eyeball peeking at me. When I open my eyes, I get big piggy snout kisses. Friends coming over to play with her and she looks to me to tell her it's "okay" before she goes to them. When she scratches herself on the side of the litter box and falls over with glee. I could go on and on and on...”
“It's the love and connection we have. He makes us so happy. He is loving and sweet. He even sleeps in our bed and HAS to be touching us (and snuggled) to sleep.”
“I always share both and adding we can pig proof, and come to laugh at their "special" quirks! Lol”
“Sleeping with me at night and having to touch me all the time. The constant squeaks whenever I talked to her. Barking whenever she ran through the yard. Always played fetch with me because she knew mommy would get her a treat. Made the paper every summer for being "sum pig". Watching animal planet all day whenever I was sick.”
“I love that they talk back and forth with you. One thing I really love is the fact that they get to know you so well and respond to your emotions. Every night they climb on the couch and cuddle up to my family and me before bedtime. All three of my pigs are VERY different but I love them all equally.”
“It is the deep connection with them. I love all of my animals, but there is something unique about the odds. Their emotions and behaviors, even the bad are so human like. And getting to watch them interact with one another just boggles my mind. They amaze me daily. Those are the things I love. I will share a quick story.
"I lost my step brother recently. I was really upset, but went to try and love on the babies as usual. I truly tried to act normal. But they knew each group did exact same thing and behaved in a way I have never seen. As I went to each group in sat down. Normally they argue as to who is going to get the attention. Instead they literally circled me, making sure they were touching me and all just layed down. It wasn't a fluke as each group did it. No arguing or vying for attention. They were making sure I knew I was supported. They were quiet, and just laid against me. They are so empathetic. These are all the reasons I love my babies”
