*~*Becca's Mini Potbelly Pigs*~*
Your Pig's Health
VACCINATIONS AND WORMING
VACCINATIONS
Should your pet pig be vaccinated?
That is a question of some debate here in the pig world. Of course, if your local laws require it, then you have to vaccinate. My vet always says "Don't create a problem if there not one in the first place".
Vaccines are made for farm pigs and don't seem to have much value to
the potbellies since the vaccines are made for one particular strain of
a disease that potbellies rarely, if ever, get. If you do have it done,
don't let them talk you into every year because we are seeing problems
with pigs getting them too often and their immune system is so good
that it ends up doing more harm than good.
We
have also heard of cases where the vet over vaccinates the pig. Meaning
too much of the vaccination was given for the size/weight of the pig.
WORMING
Your
pig should be wormed twice a year. This can be done with a shot, or
given orally. The anti parasitic of choice is Ivermectin
1% solution.
Everyone
has their own way of giving Ivermectin. If you go to the vets he will give a shot. Some people dose by mouth. I
give a shot with the formula of 1cc per 50 pounds of body weight. Ivermectin is safe and very hard to overdose so don't worry.
History
History
The
potbellied pig originated in the Orient centuries ago; thus it is often
referred to as the “Yuppie House Pet.” They are a unique breed of their
own and are not bred from the familiar American farm pig. The Chinese
house pig, the Vietnamese potbellied pig, and the miniature potbellied
pig are all names of Pigs/. Potbellied pigs were introduced into the
United States in 1985, and have captured the interest and hearts of
millions.
Potbellied
pigs have short wrinkled noses, perky little ears, sway backs, straight
tails (that wag like dogs’ tails), and, of course, pot bellies.
At
the present time, research has indicated that these little animals,
with proper care, can live approximately fifteen years. Potbellied pigs
are docile, easy going and have virtually no body odor. Their
intelligence has been compared to the dolphins and primates, thus
making them one of the most intelligent house pets known.
The
miniature potbellied pig is truly a remarkable animal and a remarkable
pet. They prefer a clean environment, will not scratch your furniture,
and are not prone to getting fleas or ticks. Because potbellied pigs do
not shed like a dog or a cat, they are the perfect pet for anyone who
suffers from common pet allergies(non hypoallergenic).
The
miniature potbellied pig is an exceptionally intelligent pet for those
of you who can give love and attention to a gentle and loyal companion and will do anything for food.
Feeding
Many
factors affect the physical health of your mini pig, but one of
the most common mistakes is overfeeding.
Healthy
body condition does not include a bulging belly and fat jowls. Ribs should not be visible, but should be easily felt. Jowls
should not obscure the jaw and fat rolls on the face should not be present.
Obesity can cause poor foot wear and fat blindness. Obesity also puts
your pet into a bad surgical risk category should emergency surgery be
necessary, not to mention long–term head problems and other organ
failures.
How
much to feed depends on your pig’s condition and activity level and
must be adjusted as needed; there is no formula. Diet should consist of
a commercial balanced and formulated mini–pig food, grazing time, and
small fruit and vegetable treats. Dog and cat food are too rich in
protein and calories and should never be used for pigs. Fruits have sugar
in them and these tend to increase weight gain.
Outside Time
Pigs need dirt not only to make a mud puddle with but to live. Pigs are iron deficient and root threw the dirt to find iron and other minerals to live. They also need exercise time to help keep them at a healthy weight.
Outside Time
Pigs need dirt not only to make a mud puddle with but to live. Pigs are iron deficient and root threw the dirt to find iron and other minerals to live. They also need exercise time to help keep them at a healthy weight.
"A cat will look down to a man. A dog will look up to a man. But a pig will look you straight in the eye and see his equal."
Winston Churchill
