Pigs

Pigs are intelligent and inquisitive. They can be kept in a commercial setting to produce meat but are also adaptable to make excellent pets. If you are thinking of keeping pigs in any situation we would always recommend that you seek advice on correct husbandry and management.

For commercial enterprises agricultural pig advisers and ourselves would work together to ensure the pigs remain healthy and reproduce or grow with maximum efficiency.

For pet pigs we would undertake a health and husbandry visit and produce a written report for each year. As everyone’s situation is different we prefer a bespoke approach rather than a rigid plan.

Some key points to remember when keeping pigs:

  • Ensure the breed of pig you are going to keep is suitable for your set-up, some of the more modern breeds are only designed to be kept in-doors in temperature controlled buildings.
  • You should always ensure the pig has an area it can go and lie which is well bedded with a substrate such as straw; this could be a pig arc or hut. It should be small enough and well bedded so the animal can burrow in the bedding and will be able to heat that space with its body heat. If piglets are in this area wheat straw should be used as pigs are less likely to get tangled up in it.
  • Pigs love to root in the mud for food; they will make a mess of wherever you keep them outside so be prepared!
  • Mud is an important source of iron for them. If they are inside or on concrete, iron injections may be necessary for some young piglets.
  • It is illegal to feed kitchen waste to pigs – contamination with meat products however small can result in the spread of devastating diseases such as foot and mouth.
  • Sows with piglets can be very dangerous – do not get trapped somewhere with them!
  • Boars will grow large tusks for fighting; these can be reduced under sedation if necessary.
  • Pigs – particularly growing pigs – require worming. As they root through their bedding/enclosure they will be exposed to worms. These will limit their growth and can cause severe weight loss/diarrhoea and even increased mortality in some circumstances. Discuss with us what the best worming regime would be for your animals.
  • There are many infectious diseases which affect pigs, for many producers these will not be a problem or concern, however as is often the case – the more pigs you have, the more likely you are to get these problems. If you have concerns that your pigs are experiencing clinical signs or are not happy and healthy pigs, speak to one of us as soon as possible so we can reach a diagnosis. We are then in a strong position to advise on control  or reduction of disease on your premises.
  • Hygiene is of paramount important – ensure you thoroughly disinfect your clothing if you go from your pigs to another persons pigs, and vice versa, to reduce the chance of spreading infectious diseases.
  • Pigs will also carry some bacteria which are zoonotic – it is extremely important you wash your hands after handling them.

If you would like us to come and assess your pigs, or you are thinking or getting some pigs and would like some advice, please do not hesitate to contact us.