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	<title>Pet Info &#187; pigs</title>
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		<title>Micro Pigs, Are They Really That Small?</title>
		<link>http://thepetzone.org/micro-pigs-are-they-really-that-small/</link>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 03 Jan 2011 14:28:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Lonnie  Schneider</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[What is cuter than a baby piglet? Miniature dog breeds have always been a fad, but what about micro pigs? Swine breeders have been trying to shrink down swine for a long time. They discovered a South East Asian pig known as the Pot Bellied Pig, known also as a micro pig. They soon became a big fad in the 1990's.


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/unique-mini-pigs-as-pets/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Unique Mini Pigs As Pets'>Unique Mini Pigs As Pets</a> <small>Teacup pigs are the toy poodles of the barnyard scene. Bred to stay small, these little charmers only fit into a teacup when they are newborn, maturing to the size of a Cocker Spaniel if fed properly. Pigs are friendly, social animals, with at least as much intelligence as dogs,...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/protecting-your-pigs-from-disease/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Protecting Your Pigs from Disease'>Protecting Your Pigs from Disease</a> <small>As a farmer with pigs, it is very important that pigs are properly taken care of as they can get ill very easily. Pigs are very prone to disease and you need to monitor them very closely. There are many ways to keep pigs healthy and safe from sickness and...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/pigs-not-the-dirty-animal-you-think/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think'>Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think</a> <small>While some folks would never consider sharing their home with a pig, there are many who are enamored by the charm, intelligence and the striking personality of their pet pigs. Pigs are charming creatures who do make great pets and are not the dirty animals like people believe. Pigs do...</small></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>What is cuter than a baby piglet? Miniature dog breeds have always been a fad, but what about micro pigs? Swine breeders have been trying to shrink down swine for a long time. They discovered a South East Asian pig known as the Pot Bellied Pig, known also as a micro pig. They soon became a big fad in the 1990&#8217;s.</p>
<p>While most people didn&#8217;t know much about them, they still had to have one on the farm or in their pet arsenal. The biggest problem came through ignorance. People just didn&#8217;t realize that these piglets could get as large as a regular pig if fed the right food.</p>
<p>Many fed them swine feed from their local feed store. This became a real problem as their small pot bellied piglet began to grow. It wasn&#8217;t long before their small pet had the size and disposition of a regular butcher hog. This was because of the growth ingredients in regular swine feed.</p>
<p>If you unknowingly fed your pig growth feed, you soon thought differently about your little swine. These pigs are genetically changed, they are not naturally small like the exotic South East Asian hog.</p>
<p>They are actually pigs that have been bred for their small size. You&#8217;ll usually find them a mix of different breeds of pigs, including the SE Asian Pot Bellied Pig. Just as with miniature or toy dogs, the breeders of these swine carefully choose the parents from genetically small stock.</p>
<p>Some of these babies will only reach about 25-40 lbs which is very small for a pig. Standard swine can be over 400lbs, so you can see the difference. Just as with the larger variety, these little babies are easy to train and many think they&#8217;re smarter than most dogs.</p>
<p>Keeping this small breed in the house is the standard procedure for most owners. They are a very clean animal and also love human interaction. This animal is intelligent enough to be house trained and can even learn tricks. However their eating habits are a little messy. Like a young child, make sure they have their own eating area that is easy to clean up. One other option is to find a type of food that doesn&#8217;t make a mess and fulfills all their nutritional needs.</p>
<p>One thing you may like about your new pet is they don&#8217;t need as much exercise as a normal pet. Taking your piglet for a walk is fun, but too much exercise can damage their joints and tendons causing rheumatism problems in time. Unlike many genetically changed breeds, these little piglets are surprisingly free of most other problems.</p>
<p>Just like the small breed of dogs, the breeders may not worry about the animals and only think of the money. Make sure you are getting your cute piglet from a caring breeder who is creating healthy animals, not mass producing like a puppy mill. These mini pigs could be a wonderful addition to your loving pets. They are intelligent, loving, engaging, and even better, hypoallergenic. Careful breeding is something to keep an eye out for if your considering owning one of these lovely animals.</p>
<p>Micro pigs loved to be loved, are highly social and loyal to their owners. Supplement their pellets with fruit and vegetables (not kitchen waste). <a target='_blank' href="http://www.teacuppigsforsale.com/">miniature teacup pigs </a> A fur allergy sufferers&#8217; friend because their skin composition is similar to humans and they have hair, not fur.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/unique-mini-pigs-as-pets/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Unique Mini Pigs As Pets'>Unique Mini Pigs As Pets</a> <small>Teacup pigs are the toy poodles of the barnyard scene. Bred to stay small, these little charmers only fit into a teacup when they are newborn, maturing to the size of a Cocker Spaniel if fed properly. Pigs are friendly, social animals, with at least as much intelligence as dogs,...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/protecting-your-pigs-from-disease/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Protecting Your Pigs from Disease'>Protecting Your Pigs from Disease</a> <small>As a farmer with pigs, it is very important that pigs are properly taken care of as they can get ill very easily. Pigs are very prone to disease and you need to monitor them very closely. There are many ways to keep pigs healthy and safe from sickness and...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/pigs-not-the-dirty-animal-you-think/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think'>Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think</a> <small>While some folks would never consider sharing their home with a pig, there are many who are enamored by the charm, intelligence and the striking personality of their pet pigs. Pigs are charming creatures who do make great pets and are not the dirty animals like people believe. Pigs do...</small></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Unique Mini Pigs As Pets</title>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Sep 2010 14:09:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Francisco Gonzales</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[Teacup pigs are the toy poodles of the barnyard scene. Bred to stay small, these little charmers only fit into a teacup when they are newborn, maturing to the size of a Cocker Spaniel if fed properly. Pigs are friendly, social animals, with at least as much intelligence as dogs, and make great family pets.


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/micro-pigs-are-they-really-that-small/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Micro Pigs, Are They Really That Small?'>Micro Pigs, Are They Really That Small?</a> <small>What is cuter than a baby piglet? Miniature dog breeds have always been a fad, but what about micro pigs? Swine breeders have been trying to shrink down swine for a long time. They discovered a South East Asian pig known as the Pot Bellied Pig, known also as a...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/pigs-not-the-dirty-animal-you-think/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think'>Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think</a> <small>While some folks would never consider sharing their home with a pig, there are many who are enamored by the charm, intelligence and the striking personality of their pet pigs. Pigs are charming creatures who do make great pets and are not the dirty animals like people believe. Pigs do...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/protecting-your-pigs-from-disease/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Protecting Your Pigs from Disease'>Protecting Your Pigs from Disease</a> <small>As a farmer with pigs, it is very important that pigs are properly taken care of as they can get ill very easily. Pigs are very prone to disease and you need to monitor them very closely. There are many ways to keep pigs healthy and safe from sickness and...</small></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Teacup pigs are the toy poodles of the barnyard scene. Bred to stay small, these little charmers only fit into a teacup when they are newborn, maturing to the size of a Cocker Spaniel if fed properly. Pigs are friendly, social animals, with at least as much intelligence as dogs, and make great family pets.</p>
<p>The pigs fit into a teacup when newly born, but &#8211; being pigs &#8211; grow rapidly to about the size of a Cocker Spaniel. Maturing at about fifteen inches tall and weighing around thirty pounds (healthy weight), they do not have to get larger. However, unwise feeding will cause them to outgrow their small pet status. They come in many different colors and are generally a mixture of breeds.</p>
<p>Mini pigs have the same failing as full-size porkers: they live to eat. The ideal environment for a pig is free range on grass, where it can poke around all day chewing on low-calorie greens. They root, or dig their noses into the ground, so if you are a smooth lawn devotee, you may not be happy with a tunneling pet. Likewise, if you cannot resist a plea for food, don&#8217;t get a pig. They are smart enough to learn as fast as a child that wheedling can get them what they want.</p>
<p>They house train very easily, will learn to do tricks (for edible rewards), really like people (who they regard as food vending machines), and stay incredibly cute all their life. They have one main advantage over dogs &#8211; they do not bark. If properly trained when young and not allowed to become demanding and manipulative (over food), they are well-mannered and safe for children and adults.</p>
<p>Zoning laws may forbid pigs, so check the local ordinances before getting one for a pet. People have fought the idea that all pigs are livestock in court and won the right to have a small one for a pet, but this is an expense you may not want to incur. Having a pig means also having a fenced yard or a lot of time to spend outside with your pet. Pigs &#8211; large or small &#8211; are mud loving animals; they like to explore mud for edibles, mix it thoroughly to the perfect consistency, and lie in it.</p>
<p>Obesity is probably the main health problem these pets have. Their feet and legs are not sturdy enough for them to carry a lot of excess poundage, their eyes can get lost in fat rolls, and they will not be able to move around freely. They are prone to dry skin and sunburn and love to be rubbed and scratched. Everyone, including the neighbors, will want to feed them, so you have to be vigilant as well as strong-minded in watching their diet.</p>
<p>Many localities treat pigs as livestock under the zoning laws and do not allow them in residential areas, so check before you get a pig and get attached to it, as you inevitably will. You will want to be sure there is a vet near by who understands and works with pigs. If the legalities can be met and there is a support system for your pet&#8217;s health care, and if you know you are tough enough to give your pig green beans instead of cookies, you can go ahead and get one of these amazing little pigs for your very own.</p>
<p>Teacup pigs make great pets for those who want to make a long-term commitment to an intelligent, devoted, and unusual animal.</p>
<p>Search the internet for reputable breeders. You will be surprised by a teacup pigs intelligence and devotion. If your piglet will reside indoors, it is necessary to take the same precautions you would for a toddler. <a href="http://www.teacuppigsforsale.com">pigs for sale</a></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/micro-pigs-are-they-really-that-small/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Micro Pigs, Are They Really That Small?'>Micro Pigs, Are They Really That Small?</a> <small>What is cuter than a baby piglet? Miniature dog breeds have always been a fad, but what about micro pigs? Swine breeders have been trying to shrink down swine for a long time. They discovered a South East Asian pig known as the Pot Bellied Pig, known also as a...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/pigs-not-the-dirty-animal-you-think/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think'>Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think</a> <small>While some folks would never consider sharing their home with a pig, there are many who are enamored by the charm, intelligence and the striking personality of their pet pigs. Pigs are charming creatures who do make great pets and are not the dirty animals like people believe. Pigs do...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/protecting-your-pigs-from-disease/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Protecting Your Pigs from Disease'>Protecting Your Pigs from Disease</a> <small>As a farmer with pigs, it is very important that pigs are properly taken care of as they can get ill very easily. Pigs are very prone to disease and you need to monitor them very closely. There are many ways to keep pigs healthy and safe from sickness and...</small></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Protecting Your Pigs from Disease</title>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 21 Jun 2009 11:28:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Thompson</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[As a farmer with pigs, it is very important that pigs are properly taken care of as they can get ill very easily. Pigs are very prone to disease and you need to monitor them very closely. There are many ways to keep pigs healthy and safe from sickness and disease. Using many techniques and safety tips, you can keep your pigs safe for a long time.


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/raising-and-feeding-pigs-on-a-farm/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Raising and Feeding Pigs on a Farm'>Raising and Feeding Pigs on a Farm</a> <small>Pigs need lots of food to be healthy. A diet that is rich in energy and supplemented with plenty of protein is recommended and wholesome to maintain healthy growth of your pig. A pig can not be called a pig unless it loves its food. Expect your pig to eat...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/pigs-not-the-dirty-animal-you-think/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think'>Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think</a> <small>While some folks would never consider sharing their home with a pig, there are many who are enamored by the charm, intelligence and the striking personality of their pet pigs. Pigs are charming creatures who do make great pets and are not the dirty animals like people believe. Pigs do...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/unique-mini-pigs-as-pets/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Unique Mini Pigs As Pets'>Unique Mini Pigs As Pets</a> <small>Teacup pigs are the toy poodles of the barnyard scene. Bred to stay small, these little charmers only fit into a teacup when they are newborn, maturing to the size of a Cocker Spaniel if fed properly. Pigs are friendly, social animals, with at least as much intelligence as dogs,...</small></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='font-style:italic;' class='petbyline'>by Jack Thompson</div>
<p>As a farmer with pigs, it is very important that pigs are properly taken care of as they can get ill very easily. Pigs are very prone to disease and you need to monitor them very closely. There are many ways to keep pigs healthy and safe from sickness and disease. Using many techniques and safety tips, you can keep your pigs safe for a long time.</p>
<p>There are many ways to keep your pigs safe. The first thing you need to do is feed them a good diet. Proper food is one way to keep your pigs healthy. Diet is important to all species. Feed your pigs a balanced diet of corn and protein. This will keep them healthy and fat. Moreover, make sure you put assorted nuts and vegetables in their feed too to round out their diet. This will make sure their immune system is strong. </p>
<p>If your pigs are sick, make sure you take the quickly to a vet. The vet will take care of your pigs and give them all the proper shots and medications. Pigs get diseases easily. Make sure you give them antibiotics regularly so that they remain healthy. Your vet will help you maintain a good schedule and safe treatment procedures for your pigs.</p>
<p>The sanitation process that involves a 3 step procedure of cleaning, disinfecting and eventually drying the show equipment, if implemented religiously, will go a long way in curbing the introduction and transmission of infections. A control on the presence and exposure to wildlife, birds and rodents must be administered as it is an easy medium of transmission of infections by these pests. </p>
<p>Pigs are very prone to getting sick. Make sure you keep the area clean that the pigs live in. Moreover, regularly check your pigs for sickness and separate them from other pigs. If your pigs are sick, make sure to remove so they do not infect your other pigs and you don&#8217;t ruin all your herd. Disease spreads quickly among pigs.</p>
<p>With Swine Flu a pandemic around the world, people are looking at pigs skeptically now. Farmers everywhere are watching pork sales decrease and government inspections increase. Though it is always important to protect your pigs against sickness, now is even more important a time to do so. Make sure you take good care of your pigs, feed them well, and always inspect them for disease. Prevention is the most important measure.</p>
<div class='petresource'>
<div style='font-style:italic;' class='petabout'>About the Author:</div>
<div class='petlinks'>Jack has been a farmer for a long time and has raised many pigs. You can find out more information on his blog about <a href="http://landissues.wordpress.com/">farming politics and information</a> and on <a href="http://growingstuff.wordpress.com/">how to grow stuff</a>.</div>
</div>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/raising-and-feeding-pigs-on-a-farm/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Raising and Feeding Pigs on a Farm'>Raising and Feeding Pigs on a Farm</a> <small>Pigs need lots of food to be healthy. A diet that is rich in energy and supplemented with plenty of protein is recommended and wholesome to maintain healthy growth of your pig. A pig can not be called a pig unless it loves its food. Expect your pig to eat...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/pigs-not-the-dirty-animal-you-think/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think'>Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think</a> <small>While some folks would never consider sharing their home with a pig, there are many who are enamored by the charm, intelligence and the striking personality of their pet pigs. Pigs are charming creatures who do make great pets and are not the dirty animals like people believe. Pigs do...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/unique-mini-pigs-as-pets/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Unique Mini Pigs As Pets'>Unique Mini Pigs As Pets</a> <small>Teacup pigs are the toy poodles of the barnyard scene. Bred to stay small, these little charmers only fit into a teacup when they are newborn, maturing to the size of a Cocker Spaniel if fed properly. Pigs are friendly, social animals, with at least as much intelligence as dogs,...</small></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Raising and Feeding Pigs on a Farm</title>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 10 May 2009 12:17:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Thompson</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[Pigs need lots of food to be healthy. A diet that is rich in energy and supplemented with plenty of protein is recommended and wholesome to maintain healthy growth of your pig. A pig can not be called a pig unless it loves its food. Expect your pig to eat all it's food with enthusiasm and when done it is not uncommon for them to seek even more food. However, be careful of your pig being always focused on the thought of eating food, it does not mean you submit to its obsession. There is a carefully balanced pattern of for a pig and before you give that pig that extra bite of food, ponder again!


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/protecting-your-pigs-from-disease/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Protecting Your Pigs from Disease'>Protecting Your Pigs from Disease</a> <small>As a farmer with pigs, it is very important that pigs are properly taken care of as they can get ill very easily. Pigs are very prone to disease and you need to monitor them very closely. There are many ways to keep pigs healthy and safe from sickness and...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/pigs-not-the-dirty-animal-you-think/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think'>Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think</a> <small>While some folks would never consider sharing their home with a pig, there are many who are enamored by the charm, intelligence and the striking personality of their pet pigs. Pigs are charming creatures who do make great pets and are not the dirty animals like people believe. Pigs do...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/micro-pigs-are-they-really-that-small/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Micro Pigs, Are They Really That Small?'>Micro Pigs, Are They Really That Small?</a> <small>What is cuter than a baby piglet? Miniature dog breeds have always been a fad, but what about micro pigs? Swine breeders have been trying to shrink down swine for a long time. They discovered a South East Asian pig known as the Pot Bellied Pig, known also as a...</small></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='font-style:italic;' class='petbyline'>by Jack Thompson</div>
<p>Pigs need lots of food to be healthy. A diet that is rich in energy and supplemented with plenty of protein is recommended and wholesome to maintain healthy growth of your pig. A pig can not be called a pig unless it loves its food. Expect your pig to eat all it&#8217;s food with enthusiasm and when done it is not uncommon for them to seek even more food. However, be careful of your pig being always focused on the thought of eating food, it does not mean you submit to its obsession. There is a carefully balanced pattern of for a pig and before you give that pig that extra bite of food, ponder again!</p>
<p>The bulk of a pig&#8217;s diet is made up from potbellied pig feed. Even though not widely available, it is important not to compromise and swap it with readily available alternative feed. A pig&#8217;s food generally resembles small pellets that are high in proteins and with low calories unlike a hog&#8217;s diet. Once you have chosen the required kind of food, the next thought provoking step is to think about the amount of food to be fed to pigs to keep the important balance of the pig&#8217;s weight . When raising pigs on a farm, grain and corn can be fed to them in a pig trough. Always continue to let pigs eat until they stop. </p>
<p>Feeding pigs meals spread across the day is a effective way to provide meals for your pig. By putting out four servings of half a cup each at steady times across a day will assist with easy digestion and also the pig will learn to ration it&#8217;s feed. In case of a predicament, if you are unable to be with your pig as often to provide all meals, then you can reduce it to 2-3 times each day but the quantity still kept the same. If the pig is hungry in between normal feeds, which you should expect regularly, then give it with plenty of natural food. Pigs feast on berries, carrots, raisins, apples, celery and anything else you can find in your refrigerator.</p>
<p>Not very fussy eaters, pigs when outside in the wild, tend to relish mostly on vegetation and random insects. Thus it is advisable that you do not over feed pigs with any more meat and pork items and maybe seldom entertain them with a slice of ham, bacon or sausages. </p>
<p>Pigs do love sweet treats and they can indulge in animal crackers that are not too high in calories or slightly sweetened cereal. Pigs should also be also given lots of clean water as half of a pig&#8217;s mass is made up of water. If you feed your pig a balanced diet, you will make sure it remains fat and healthy. Don&#8217;t feed them too many sweet foods because it can lead to disease and illness. </p>
<p>Feeding your pig is an easy but time consuming process. Make sure that you feed it the right food so that it does not get sick and stays healthy. A healthy pig will ensure that you get a lot of meat when you take it to the slaughter. There is a lot of resources on the web that can help you ensure that your give your pig the best food possible.</p>
<div class='petresource'>
<div style='font-style:italic;' class='petabout'>About the Author:</div>
<div class='petlinks'>Jack Thompson has been training and raising pigs since he was in college as a the result of a school prank. Now he loves pigs. You can find out more information on <a href="http://raisingpigs.blogspot.com/">raising and keeping pigs</a> and about <a href="http://raisingpigs.blogspot.com/2009/02/pig-troughs.html">designing a pig pen</a> at his website.</div>
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<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/protecting-your-pigs-from-disease/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Protecting Your Pigs from Disease'>Protecting Your Pigs from Disease</a> <small>As a farmer with pigs, it is very important that pigs are properly taken care of as they can get ill very easily. Pigs are very prone to disease and you need to monitor them very closely. There are many ways to keep pigs healthy and safe from sickness and...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/pigs-not-the-dirty-animal-you-think/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think'>Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think</a> <small>While some folks would never consider sharing their home with a pig, there are many who are enamored by the charm, intelligence and the striking personality of their pet pigs. Pigs are charming creatures who do make great pets and are not the dirty animals like people believe. Pigs do...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/micro-pigs-are-they-really-that-small/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Micro Pigs, Are They Really That Small?'>Micro Pigs, Are They Really That Small?</a> <small>What is cuter than a baby piglet? Miniature dog breeds have always been a fad, but what about micro pigs? Swine breeders have been trying to shrink down swine for a long time. They discovered a South East Asian pig known as the Pot Bellied Pig, known also as a...</small></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Pigs: Not the Dirty Animal You Think</title>
		<link>http://thepetzone.org/pigs-not-the-dirty-animal-you-think/</link>
		<comments>http://thepetzone.org/pigs-not-the-dirty-animal-you-think/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2009 08:38:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Phillips</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Exotic Pets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Animals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[farm animals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[farming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pigs]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[While some folks would never consider sharing their home with a pig, there are many who are enamored by the charm, intelligence and the striking personality of their pet pigs. Pigs are charming creatures who do make great pets and are not the dirty animals like people believe. Pigs do take a lot of work to care for but pigs are very interesting to take care of. Pigs are fun to play with and very loving despite the care and attention they require.


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/protecting-your-pigs-from-disease/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Protecting Your Pigs from Disease'>Protecting Your Pigs from Disease</a> <small>As a farmer with pigs, it is very important that pigs are properly taken care of as they can get ill very easily. Pigs are very prone to disease and you need to monitor them very closely. There are many ways to keep pigs healthy and safe from sickness and...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/raising-and-feeding-pigs-on-a-farm/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Raising and Feeding Pigs on a Farm'>Raising and Feeding Pigs on a Farm</a> <small>Pigs need lots of food to be healthy. A diet that is rich in energy and supplemented with plenty of protein is recommended and wholesome to maintain healthy growth of your pig. A pig can not be called a pig unless it loves its food. Expect your pig to eat...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/unique-mini-pigs-as-pets/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Unique Mini Pigs As Pets'>Unique Mini Pigs As Pets</a> <small>Teacup pigs are the toy poodles of the barnyard scene. Bred to stay small, these little charmers only fit into a teacup when they are newborn, maturing to the size of a Cocker Spaniel if fed properly. Pigs are friendly, social animals, with at least as much intelligence as dogs,...</small></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style='font-style:italic;' class='petbyline'>by Jack Phillips</div>
<p>While some folks would never consider sharing their home with a pig, there are many who are enamored by the charm, intelligence and the striking personality of their pet pigs. Pigs are charming creatures who do make great pets and are not the dirty animals like people believe. Pigs do take a lot of work to care for but pigs are very interesting to take care of. Pigs are fun to play with and very loving despite the care and attention they require.</p>
<p>There are always upsides and downsides to raising any animal. The same is true for pigs. Pigs do have several desirable qualities. They are affectionate, curious, playful, and can be easily trained. Pig owners consider their pet an important part of the family and involve them in all their activities just like a dog or a cat. However, there are a few negative aspects to owning a pig that all potential people must be aware of as pigs are complex creatures who require an owner who can clearly understand their needs.</p>
<p>Pigs are very intelligent animals and can be easily trained like a dog. But, this intellect can make them a bit of a handful too. They are playful and curious but also headstrong and sensitive. Without sufficient stimulation, they will get easily bored, lethargic and very often destructive as well. </p>
<p>Pigs are very insistent and unrelenting when it comes down to meal times. These animals are smart enough to open fridges and cupboards if they smell something to eat. They have an uncanny knack to beg for food, most of the times demanding more and may even get aggressive with kids having food. They also tend to dig and root for food with their snouts and in the process may overturn items in the house including the trash can and can disrupt the landscaping as well. Rooting comes on instinctively and to keep the pigs from messing the house and landscape, an area of soft dirt should be provided in the yard so that pigs can satiate their rooting needs. </p>
<p>Additionally, you need to train your pigs well and make sure they understand that you are in power. They need to be taught respect and trained. They can be trained like any other animal and it just takes work and positive reinforcement. Set rules and regulations and make sure you are consistent in what you do. Use the tone of your voice to train them and you will find them respond quickly and behave well. Training them is like a training a dog. </p>
<p>Be sure to give your pig regular access to the outdoors and provide them with a lot of things to do as they are very social animals. For potential owners with appropriate expectations, a pig will make for a rewarding, entertaining and a much loved pet. Pigs are best for people who have a lot of outdoor space for pigs to roam around in. Pigs are not good city pets. You need a lot of space and if you have the space, you should consider buying a pig.</p>
<div class='petresource'>
<div style='font-style:italic;' class='petabout'>About the Author:</div>
<div class='petlinks'>Jack has been a farmer for a long time and has been keeping pigs for a few decades. You can find out more information on his blog about <a href="http://landissues.wordpress.com/">farm politics and issues</a> and on <a href="http://growingstuff.wordpress.com/">how to grow stuff on a farm</a>.</div>
</div>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/protecting-your-pigs-from-disease/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Protecting Your Pigs from Disease'>Protecting Your Pigs from Disease</a> <small>As a farmer with pigs, it is very important that pigs are properly taken care of as they can get ill very easily. Pigs are very prone to disease and you need to monitor them very closely. There are many ways to keep pigs healthy and safe from sickness and...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/raising-and-feeding-pigs-on-a-farm/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Raising and Feeding Pigs on a Farm'>Raising and Feeding Pigs on a Farm</a> <small>Pigs need lots of food to be healthy. A diet that is rich in energy and supplemented with plenty of protein is recommended and wholesome to maintain healthy growth of your pig. A pig can not be called a pig unless it loves its food. Expect your pig to eat...</small></li><li><a href='http://thepetzone.org/unique-mini-pigs-as-pets/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Unique Mini Pigs As Pets'>Unique Mini Pigs As Pets</a> <small>Teacup pigs are the toy poodles of the barnyard scene. Bred to stay small, these little charmers only fit into a teacup when they are newborn, maturing to the size of a Cocker Spaniel if fed properly. Pigs are friendly, social animals, with at least as much intelligence as dogs,...</small></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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