Choosing the Right Pet For Your Family

Choosing a family pet should involve all members of the family. If there cannot be some kind of agreement reached, perhaps the pet idea should be put off until there is one. Pets that are well loved and well cared for will become another member of the family, but if one member of the family is not on board, there will be tension, disagreements and eventually, a battle of the wills. And, if there is any chance that someone is truly afraid or potentially allergic, that particular choice should not even be considered.

The adults should be in total agreement about the pet idea, and what kind of pet they are willing to consider, before the children even find out. Nothing is worse than squaring off against your own partner as you battle on one side or the other in the never-ending dog versus cat war. Make your opinions known to your loved one, and then present your united front to the children. Do not just announce that you will be getting "a pet" and then ask the kids what they want- you will likely hear all sorts of insane ideas, depending on their ages. Make sure that you have narrowed the choices down based on living space, time and dedication available and budget considerations. Give your child the shortened list and allow them some say in the final selections.

Once the family unit has come up with a general idea of what they would like to have as the family pet, everyone should go and start looking for likely candidates. Just as you would not bring a stranger in as a babysitter, do not just bring a pet in and expect everyone to bond with him immediately. Let the kids have at least some say in the process and they will be more likely to actually take part in the care of it.

After choosing the family pet, make sure that everyone knows what is expected in the care process, and what is expected of the pet itself. Make sure that every ones on board with the training needs of your new addition so that there is no confusion. Consistency is very important for a new pet, so if one member is allowing one behavior, and others do not, he may become confused. A care chart may keep the duties straight for the kids, and will also allow everyone to keep track of the pets routine throughout the day. Give kids duties based on their age and ability, and then make sure that they understand how important it is that they help care for their new best friend.

If you havce an interest in taking care of you pets please check out my web site (http://larryplace.com). You will find that there are many thing you can do for your pets without having to run to the Vet's every time your pet is not feeling well.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Larry_Cole

Are You Ready to Take Home a Potbellied pig?

First be sure that your area is zoned to allow potbelliy pigs as pets.

Be sure you have a reliable and responsible veterinarian that understands the needs and care of pigs.

Know what you will be feeding your new pet, where it will sleep, how and when it will have access to the outdoors, and how you plan to 'childproof' your house.

Pigs love toys and love to play. Remember, a bored pig spells trouble! They love to shred paper and magazines so thats an easy thing you can leave laying around the house for them. Any toy that has food in it will be a great favorite so be sure to stoack up. Pet pig busy balls (see photo) are a good thing to have around.

Be sure you have an area for your pig to root or a rooting box inside the house.

If you also have a dog, never leave the dog and the pig unattended, even if they seem to be fast friends. Pigs are natural prey for dogs and may start a fight (usually over food or toys) injuring the dog.

When it comes to teaching your pig, keep in mind that patience and FOOD are what will win out, if you ever hit a pig they will remember it forever and never do what it is you want them to do. This approach to training does not work. Be sure you are prepared to give your pig thelove, care, time and training it needs.

Pot-Bellied Pig in Vermont

What You Need to Know to Take Care of Your Miniature Pig

Miniature pigs need all the help that they can get, because there are so many of them that are without a home, and yes they are adorable, but perhaps its their cuteness that paints an unrealistic picture of them in people's minds.

These types of animals can be high maintenance for families, while the perfect companion for others, so please do your research first. You may even hear horror stories from time to time, but its not necessarily the pet pig's fault, rather just a bad matching of human and pet.

These little guys eat a lot, and a lot of their mood revolves around this. When they become hungry, and if their appetite is not well met, then they can respond unsatisfying with their behavior. They root for instance as an instinct when looking for food. The more well-fed your miniature pig, the less likely that they will do this. On the other hand, using food as a reward is a great way to teach your pig tricks, and discipline.

They are extremely intelligent, and can become very loyal, but to the point where they are overtly protective and territorial. Many people find that they don't mix well with other pets, and there are many cases where the pig or another pet were harmed because of a bad pairing.

Exposing them to people and socializing them can help them not become so dominating of your home in most cases. Another plus of owning a miniature pig is that most people are not allergic to them, even if they have a lot of trouble with this.

Caring for your pig is an utmost priority. Please do the necessary reading before getting one, because they have needs that other animals do not. For instance, a healthy diet and proper skin care is very important. Too many people neglect this and then end up with a miserable little piggy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Sibbs

Pot Belly Pig Tricks

Pot Belly Pig

Pot Belly Pigs appear in a variety of patterns in black and white, with a large snout, sharp tusks, and durable hooves. Upright, triangle-shaped ears and a flat tail easily distinguish the Pot Bellied Pig from its distant pig breed relatives. Pot Bellied Pigs are well-known for their bottomless appetites. They are also surprisingly clean and quick to learn. Some have even been trained to use the doggy-door or litter box! Many enjoy being taken on walks using a harness and leash. Pot Bellied Pigs live an average lifespan of 4-15 years, growing from a mere ½ lb. at birth to an average of 100-125lbs. by the time they reach maturity at age 3.

Pot Bellied Pigs as Pets

Although some people would never consider sharing their home with a pig, there are many people who are charmed by intelligence and the personality of their pet pigs. There is no doubt that given the proper expectations as well as care and training, a pot bellied pig can make an interesting and much-loved addition to the home. However, many people find that pigs are demanding pets and are overwhelmed by their needs - as shown by the abundance of shelters overflowing with pigs (one such shelter, PIGS, a Sanctuary houses more than 200 abandoned pigs at times)

Before discussing the negative aspects of pigs, it must be noted that pigs have several desirable qualities. They are intelligent, readily trained, affectionate, curious, playful, clean, generally quiet, odor free, and usually non-allergenic. Many owners consider their pigs an integral part of the family and involve them in all their activities. However, there are a few things potential owners should know. PIGS neatly summarizes the pros and cons of pet pig ownership. Pigs are complex creatures and require an owner who understands their needs.

Pigs are very intelligent. This is usually a positive trait, and in fact pot bellied pigs are quite trainable, much the same as a dog (i.e. can be house trained, leash trained, and will learn a few tricks). However, their intelligence can make them a bit of a handful, too. They are curious and playful, but also head-strong and sensitive. Without appropriate stimulation, they will become easily bored, and possibly destructive.

Pigs are also unrelenting in their quest for food - and can learn to open the fridge, cupboards, pantry - wherever food may be lurking. They can become demanding, begging for food, and even getting aggressive with kids that have food. Pigs also "root," or dig/explore with their snouts - and in doing so may overturn items in the house, including wastebaskets, and can disrupt the landscaping. This is instinctual, so an area of soft dirt should be provided in the yard so they can fulfill their need to root.

Another problem some have encountered with their pigs is aggression. Pigs can be territorial and have a drive to be dominant ("top pig"). Unless shown that the humans in the household are number one, pigs can exhibit a form of aggression known as dominance aggression (also seen in dogs). Pigs need to be taught to respect their owners, but setting rules and boundaries, teaching the word "no" and using gentle but firm discipline. Pigs respond well to positive reinforcement (e.g. using praise and treats when the pig is doing something desirable), and do not do well at all with physical punishment. From day one, the owner should be setting the rules and enforcing them. Consistent rules, praise for good behavior, and correction/redirection with lots of repetition and patience will help produce a well mannered pig with a good relationship with its family.

On a more basic level, a pig will live an average of 12 -18 years, estimates range up to more than 20 years. Although often called miniature pot bellied pigs, the term miniature is relative - they are smaller than most pigs kept for food production, but they still usually weigh 125 pounds or more when fully grown. Responsibility for their care is not to be taken lightly, with respect to time or finances. Pigs should be obtained form conscientious, reputable breeders, and will need a good quality pig food, regular vaccinations, hoof and tusk trims, and will also need to be spayed or neutered. Regular access to the outdoors for exercise is a necessity as well. Pigs are social animals so needs lots of attention and interaction, and if feasible, owners should consider keeping more than one pig. Of course, as with any other exotic pet - an owner needs to check local regulations to make sure pot bellied pig ownership is permissible.

For people with appropriate expectations, a pot bellied pig will make a rewarding, entertaining, much-loved pet.

From Lianne McLeod, DVM, former About.com Guide

Pot Bellied Pigs as Pets

You see a cute little piglet in a pet store. You’ve never thought of having a pig as a pet, but it’s so cute that you can almost begin to understand why someone would want to have a pot-bellied pig! As you fawn over this adorable piglet, make sure you understand the responsibilities involved in owning a pot-bellied pig.

Pot-bellied pigs originated in Southeast Asia. This is why they are actually properly called ‘Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs’. This type of pig is still found in the mountains of Vietnam, and is kept for meat. The Vietnamese pot-bellied pig naturally has black hair and is quite a bit smaller than the pink European and North American varieties of meat pigs that we are used to seeing here.

Apart from size, pot-bellied pigs also look different than their overseas cousins. They tend to have a wrinkled face, small ears, short snout, and straight tail. And, of course, they have a sway back and pot belly! Pet pot-bellied pigs have been cross-bred with other pigs to produce a variety of colours.

After looking at the cute little piglet, you have to remember one thing. Just as a puppy grows from tiny to huge, so does a piglet. Make sure that you will be happy with your pig even after it passes out of the ‘cute’ stage. Pot-bellied pigs are big! Although they are generally the size of a medium-sized dog (think, Labrador Retriever), they are much heavier. A pot-bellied pig can tip the scales at up to 300 pounds!

To dispel some myths, pigs are not dirty. They are actually very clean animals. This has to do, in part, with the fact that pigs are like intelligent dogs. They are not dumb barnyard animals. They are, in fact, incredibly inquisitive and social. Just like a dog, they need attention and amusement; they easily get bored. You essentially need to toddler-proof your house, because pet pigs will get into anything and everything!

This is why it is very important that you do your research before deciding to get a pot-bellied pig. They are much more complex and needy than you would imagine at first. Just like a dog, they need daily walking. In fact, they almost need it more, because pigs are lazy! Pot-bellied pigs have been bred to be calm and docile, and therefore will not do more exercise than you make them do. Therefore, you will need to walk your pig daily. Thankfully, they are easily trained to walk on a leash.

In fact, your pig is very easily trained to do many things. Pigs can be trained to use a litter box, or to go to the bathroom outside, like dogs. Because they are so intelligent, they learn tricks very quickly. Pigs make interactive and challenging pets! You will never get tired of the depth of personality that your pig has. They are tricksters, playmates, and companions.

Your pot-bellied pig will need a veterinarian. That is not as simple as it sounds, because very few veterinarians that deal with pets have experience with this species. Make sure you search around and contact a veterinarian who will be willing to do routine services on a pot-bellied pig, and who will be willing to treat your pig in an emergency. Routine services include vaccinations, hoof trimming, and tusk trimming in males. Females and males need to be spayed or neutered; unneutered males can be smelly and aggressive.

There will be other issues to take into consideration. Pigs, naturally, are very prone to obesity. A potential owner will have to look carefully for proper food; many pig foods out there have too many calories and not enough forage. Forage for pigs is like salad and fibre for humans.

In addition, pigs should not be left alone with pet dogs, due to the natural predator-prey relationship. Also, make sure you look into the laws in your area, as pot-bellied pigs may be considered ‘livestock’ and may not be allowed.

This is only a short introduction to the history and personalities of pot-bellied pigs. These wonderful creatures are still very uncommon pets, and perhaps for a good reason. Although they are very rewarding, they are demanding of time and attention, and an owner will need more knowledge/research than an owner of an average dog or cat. If you do decide that a pot-bellied pig is right for you, you are looking forward to about fifteen years of pure entertainment and companionship!

By Ashley O'driscoll - Pets.ca writer

Get Health Insurance for Your Potbellied Pig

By: Jason Richards | Posted: Jan 6th, 2009

There have been much books written about dogs like Old Yeller and Where the Red Fern Grows, Black Beauty is the girls think steed after his diary were so cleverly translated, and a current rope of mystery novels featuring sleuthing cats have earned felines a place in the literary archives. Considering that isn't it interesting that some of the animal characters most people appear to recall the best are pigs. When book lovers think of pigs they beam as they recollect the gentle innocence of Wilbur as he strutted around the barnyard, or they jolt with delicious disgust as they think about how George Orwell's Napoleon ruled the grow after overthrowing the humans in Animal Farm.

Recently pigs have been judgment their way into more and more homes as family pets. Many pet owners are delighted by the pig's cutting intelligence and dynamic personality. Or they move into a neat tidy store and pustule and complete litter of new piglets sleeping in a little pig heap on a bed of straw. The next thing they know they have purchased an immature pot bellied pig and are charming it home.

The first misstep people often make is arrogant that a pot bellied pig would make a good pet for their family is that they don't truly understand that the beauty fades...Speedy. One detailed they share a cute little piglet, the next they are looking at a sharp legged budding piglet with a strangely shaped skull, relaxed jowls, and stiff hair.

The next oversight petted owners make when they obtain a potbellied pig is that they feign it will postpone tiny sized. While it is dedicated that the pot bellied pig is considerably minor then its barnyard cousins pet owners should to understand that the pigs that are worn for bacon and Easter hams are typically butchered at import surpassing three hundred and fifty pounds. The rounded adult sows can weigh in at well over five hundred pounds.

Once you have purchased a newborn potbellied pig you necessity to father idea about its strength tending. Pot bellied pigs should to be spayed or neutered, they poverty to have their feet trimmed on a standard center, they neediness to have their long tusks trimmed, and they necessary yearly vaccinations. Purchasing a pet strength propose for your new pet might help make veterinary thought more affordable. If you decide to foothold a strength cover propose for your pot bellied pig make reliable it is one that it will still be suitable at the end of your pets life, which could bet twenty days away. If you are powerless to find a pet health assurance guests who is promotion coverage for potbellied pigs try to get a trade through the indemnity visitors that indemnify farmers' useful livestock.

Besides health insurance pot bellied pig owners should perhaps deem getting some capture of liability insurance in suit their pot bellied pig accidentally hurts superstar. For the most part pot bellied pigs are low key and kind but once in a while you can stumble across one that gets goaded with people. Just like their better, barnyard cousins, pot bellied pigs a re very sound they literally toss an ample adult man to the feature with just a little push of their snout.

About the Author:

Find tips about hamster wet tail and hamster names at the Hamster Life website.

Feeding Pot Bellied Pigs

Pot bellied pigs generally have voracious appetites and will eat nearly anything that you offer them. Unfortunately they are also very prone to obesity which can lead to foot and joint problems as well as other health problems. In addition to the health implications they can also become very persistent and pesky beggars and can even learn to open the refrigerator in their search for tasty treats. Feeding the proper diet, limiting treats and developing a feeding routine can help prevent problems.

Pot bellied pigs need a good quality diet that is high in fiber and low in calories. Ideally, a food formulated specifically for pot bellied pigs or mini pigs should be fed, and these can now be found at some feed stores and pet stores. If your local store doesn't carry these diets they may be able to order them in for you, or you could also check to see if your veterinarian can order them. Here are some examples of pot bellied pig diets:

• Mazuri (whose parent company is Purina) - choose Mini Pig from the menu at the right of the screen
• Ross Mill Farms - you can buy online from their online Pig Store
• Heartland Pet Pig Products - carries a full line of pet pig diets available online through HappyPigs.com

If you feed a commercial food meant for farmed pigs make sure you choose a maintenance ration - especially avoid the grower and finisher type foods which are meant for optimum growth and are too rich for pot bellied pigs. The

Young piglets can be fed a commercial pig starter diet, but only up to about 2-3 months of age.

As a rule, in non-breeding adults feed about 1/2 cup of maintenance food per 25 pounds of the pig's weight (so a 75 pound pig would get 1 1/2 cups of food). The total amount should be divided into 2 meals a day. However, this amount is a guideline and should be adjusted based on the pig's body condition. If the pig is developing rolls of fat around the face and you have a hard time feeling the hip bones, the pig is becoming obese and should be fed less. Conversely, if the pig feels skinny you should feed more. Piglets up to 6 weeks of age can be fed starter ration free choice (as much as they want) but from 6 weeks to 3 months gradually limit the starter food down to about 1 to 1 1/2 cups per day. Nearing 3 months, make the gradual change to the adult diet.

In addition to the formulated diet, you can feed a good variety of fresh vegetables to make up about 25% of the pig's diet. Foods such as celery, cucumbers, peppers, carrots, potatoes and some greens are good choices (but try to limit the starchy vegetables like potatoes). Some fruits can be feed as well but only in moderation due to the high sugar content. Most pigs love treats like apples, grapes and raisins, but these are good to reserve as treats to be used in training.

Pigs should also be allowed opportunity to root in soil and graze on grass (not treated with chemicals or fertilizer). Pigs are susceptible to selenium deficiency but in most areas if they are allowed to graze and root in the soil they will get enough. If you live in an area with soil deficient in selenium you may need a mineral supplement. Check with your veterinarian for advice on this.

Extra fiber can be provided by feeding hay (e.g. alfalfa), and some experts recommend adding bran to the diet. In summary:

• feed a diet specifically made for pot bellied pigs if possible
• do not overfeed - never feed as much as they will eat since pigs have voracious appetites
• do not feed dog or cat food (much too high in protein)
• avoid fatty foods, particularly animal fats
• absolutely avoid chocolate or salty snacks
• ensure plenty of fresh water is always available
• do not give into begging or your pig is likely to become a pest and beg constantly
• do not feed directly from the fridge or your pig may quickly become an expert at opening the fridge

Holistic pet care

Holistic pet care is gaining popularity by the droves. Holistic medicine involves everything from homeopathic treatments to acupuncture for dogs and other pets. Holistic veterinarians say these treatments can successfully treat and cure many chronic and acute diseases like cancer, liver disease, pancreatitis, allergies, asthma, urinary tract problems and behavioral problems.

So what should you consider when deciding on whether to treat your pup with traditional medicine or take the less traveled road and join those who have decided to explore a natural approach?

With holistic health care the emphasis is on the patient rather than the disease. Signs and symptoms are not the total issue. They simply represent imbalances in the patient’s body. The holistic practitioner has a large number of tools to support and motivate the body to heal. Natural therapies have the ability to allow the body to self-regulate and heal itself.

Holistic veterinarians will tell you they have seen acupuncture, homeopathy and good nutrition help cases that had seemed incurable with conventional therapy.

A holistic approach is focused on preventing disease. Part of that process includes feeding your dog natural dog food free of harmful chemicals and by-products. A natural diet is known to minimize cell damage.

Additionally, the holistic approach minimizes vaccines and the use of medications and toxins. Finally, a well-prescribed supplement regimen can reduce inflammation and oxidation in your pet’s body, decreasing the chances of your pet developing chronic diseases.

We wrote an article on this topic for That Mutt blog which was just published. It gives several reasons to consider holistic pet care. They include:

1. Holistic pet care can prevent disease

2. Holistic pet care minimizes drug intake

3. Holistic pet care heals the “whole” pet rather than the disease

4. Holistic pet care can save you money

5. Holistic pet care minimizes vaccinations

If you are interested in checking out the full article, which expands on these five reasons to consider holistic pet care, click HERE.

Miniature pot belly pigs

Author: Pot Belly Pigs

I don’t know about you but I think miniature pot belly pigs are just absolutely the most adorable pigs ever. Miniature pot bellies actually have quite a fascinating history behind them. All Pot belly pigs started out as “miniature” and so they start to grow. They get bigger and bigger. But whatever the size of the pig is, it still comes with great responsibility. Perhaps you are looking for a miniature pot belly pig as a pet or maybe you already own one, but whatever the circumstance is, it is important that you know enough information about them so that you can be good owner for them.

If you are searching for a miniature pot bellies pig as a pet, it is important that you know what a responsibility it is to take care of such pet. Miniature pot bellied pigs are not like small dogs or cat. Matter of fact that is one of the many mistake people make when they are considering getting a miniature pot bellied pig. Many just don’t know much about the care and maintenance of this type of animal. Such as - how to control the pig’s aggression or Control Social Hierarchy and what to feed them to improve your pig’s immune system. The point is you need to be well aware of the responsibility that comes with owning a pot belly pig.

Now if you already own a pot belly pig, then it is very good that you are endeavoring to find out more information about it. Many potbellied pig owners are trying to learn more about their pet so as to find better ways to train them and better ways to take care of them. For most Pot bellied pig owner, it is the training of their pig that can prove to be a challenge. The question is how can you house train a pig? Especially it is used to live out door. Or how can you reduce the aggression in your pig? How to know how much your pig weighs without using a scale?

And my favorite, how can one pig be introduced to the other without much problem? Solution, Introduce them through a fence. Letting them Fence fight. After two weeks, introduce them for a few moments at a time. If they fight, use a timber board to separate them from each other. Be prepared, they will fight and may get minor scratches on each other. And one more thing, make sure they are the same size and age.

In addition to the questions above, learning how to train your Pot belly pig is the first step in being a good owner, find out how to train your pig at http://tinyurl.com/yctfb6w Need more Pot Belly Pig Information? Get it at http://tinyurl.com/yctfb6w

PIGS AND DOGS - A BAD COMBINATION

Potbelly pigs and dogs are not a good combination. Pigs are prey to dogs, which are predators. If you get a pet pig and have a dog, NEVER leave them alone together.

We have heard way to many stories about pigs being attacked by the family dog and being severely injured, or killed. Many times these are animals that have lived together for years. Normally it will be the pig that starts the problem by going after the dogs food, toys, etc.

Yes, there are exceptions to everything but do not take the chance.

Pot belly pig care, and pet pig care in general, requires different treatments and approaches than other exotic animals or more common pets, like cats and dogs.

We suggest you go through our FAQ's links to the right. There is a great deal of information here and many of your questions will be answered there.

SPONSOR A PET PIG

If, after you have read through these pages, you decide a pig is not for you, you can still sponsor a pig at many sanctuaries around the country. If this is something that may interest you, we suggest sponsoring a pig at Pig Pals Sanctuary. This is one of the best and most dedicated sanctuaries around.

Pet Pigs - The Different Kinds and the Preparation Needed Before Buying a Pet Pig

There are several different kinds of pet pigs. You have the potbellied pig, the miniature pig, and then there's the tea cup pig which has become a big hit in the UK. There are also many varieties of these pets.

Be careful when choosing one, because it seems that most people view them all the same way, but characteristics and traits do vary from animal to animal. One of the biggest mistakes that people making when buying a miniature pig, or micro pig, is that they don't take into account that they do get bigger.

If you are interested acquiring one, please take into consideration how you can careful your pig when it reaches its full size. Remember, they already have a massive appetite, so just imagine what they will be like when they are older.

You should also understand that their longing for food is deeply connected with their emotional response - almost like a grumpy child that can't have its way. The problem is that pigs are very human acting, but most owners focus so much on that, that they end up forgetting that it is an animal, and at times does not know better.

You can use food as an ally, but using it to train the pig very effectively.Pigs can even be leash trained, so long as you recognize when its a pig, and when its the pet that you want it to be.

Pet pigs require special attention to detail when it comes to taking care of their skin. Though most people can avoid allergies from pet pigs, the pig itself cannot. Unfortunately a lot of people neglect to fully take care of their companion.

Some piggies may not take well to children or other animals, and you should always "pig proof" your home before getting one. Never leave garbage or food within reach. Make sure that your pig gets the exercise that it needs, and remember that they are very sensitive to extreme temperatures. They can become easily over heated, and just as easily cold.

Pet pigs need a lot of attention, because they can be very backward, which can also add to bad behavior and aggression. They aren't really that hard to have around, but this is only possible if the owner takes the necessary pre-steps, educates themselves, and above all realizes that there are special needs that need to be met when owning a pet pig.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Sibbs

Potbelly pigs - are they right for you?

Author: Jon Sibbs

Potbelly pigs are really cool, there is no doubt about that, and they can be a wonderful addition to your home, but many people purchase one without understanding how to take care of it first. What happens tragically every year, is thousands of these little guys are basically abandoned, and left for dead, simply because the owner did not educate themselves first and learn how to take care of them.

I ask that you please not do this too, if you are thinking about getting a pot bellied pig. Below is a little bit of information about the pros and cons of having one.

If you are considering getting a potbelly pig, make sure that you understand that it can be agressive, and get itself into a lot of trouble. On the other hand it is true that they can be wonderful pets, so long as someone understands the prep work involed and how to handle them.

Other animals are probably not a good idea to have around if you plan to have a pig in your home. These guys are pretty notorious for not getting along with other creatures, and your other animals may not like your new buddy either.

Now, there are many outstanding qualities about them as well. They can be affectionate,
and are very much like a dog in behavior. Pot bellied pigs can also be a blast to have around the house, and people who are allergic to most other pets rarely have problems
with them. The problem is that they are very smart, and matching wits with them can be tricky.

Its really no different than getting a dog. You wouldn't get your grandmother who walks with a cane a rambunctious little yippy dog that's a handle for her to take care of, would you? Do your studying and see how a potbelly pig could potentially fit into your home environment.

About the Author:

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Potbelly pigs - are they right for you?

How to Care For Pigs

There are different breeds of pig but they basically have the same physiology and anatomy. Pigs aren't really high maintenance animals so it's easy how to care for pigs. Whether you're keeping a pot bellied pig as a pet or you're running a pig farm, their healthy must be your number one priority.. Like all animals, providing adequate living quarters, the proper nutrition, sanitation and health care is how to care for pigs.

When building a house for your pig, remember that pigs are sensitive to heat and cold. On very hot days, they need a place to cool off. This is because unlike humans, pigs don't have sweat glands and can't regulate body heat on their own so you need to take proper steps how to take care for pigs during hot and cold days. Build them a pool so they can cool their body; the depth of your pool must be at enough for the water to cover your pig. To make them comfortable during colder days, give their shelter enough bedding made of straw or hay; at least 16 inches high is enough.

It is also a good idea to have a vet check your pigs every now and then. If you keep pigs as a pet, you can just take them to the nearest clinic. However, if you own a pig farm it would be better to get a specialized vet to make a house call so all your pigs can be checked out. Pigs have an impressive vitality and won't get sick easily, but you should watch out for swine diseases. Vets will also give you some advices on how to care for pigs.

If you're keeping a pig as a pet, you should have them neutered as early as possible. Sexually ready males can be aggressive and rowdy. At about five weeks old male pigs become fertile so it would be better if you have them neutered before then. Females, on the other hand, should be sprayed at about 4 months old. At 10 months old, the risk of cancer is very high for unsprayed females. Spraying female pigs to make their lives longer is how to take care for pigs.

You also need to protect your pigs from predators. It may seem unlikely but dogs can see pigs as prey. If you have a pet pig, keep them away from your neighbor dogs as much as possible. On the farm, pigs are safe when mixed with cows and goats but keep them away from horses. Your pigs may startle the horses when they're grazing which could result to the horse killing the pig.

So keep these points in mind. You will find that picking up skills on how to care for pigs does not need to be difficult when you're learning from someone who have experienced. If you would like more tips on how to care for pigs, take a look at http://www.howtoraisepigs.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_F_Brown

Potbelly Pigs and What You Absolutely Need to Know Before Getting a Potbelly Pig

The first thing that you should know is that these little guys are in serious need of your help, and that every year many die because of ill-informed owners. The first thing that you need to understand, is that although they are cute, without the proper research an owner will do more harm than good. Make sure that you always do your studying up on any animal before purchasing it. Many potbelly pigs are up for adoption and in need of a good home, but its the home environment that should be looked at first.

If you are considering getting a potbelly pig, make sure that you understand that it can be aggressive, and get itself into a lot of trouble. On the other hand it is true that they can be wonderful pets, so long as someone understands the prep work involved and how to handle them.

Other animals are probably not a good idea to have around if you plan to have a pig in your home. These guys are pretty notorious for not getting along with other creatures, and your other animals may not like your new buddy either.

Now, there are many outstanding qualities about them as well. They can be affectionate, and are very much like a dog in behavior. Pot bellied pigs can also be a blast to have around the house, and people who are allergic to most other pets rarely have problems with them. The problem is that they are very smart, and matching wits with them can be tricky.

Its really no different than getting a dog. You wouldn't get your grandmother who walks with a cane a rambunctious little yippy dog that's a handle for her to take care of, would you? Do your studying and see how a potbelly pig could potentially fit into your home environment.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Sibbs