You have done it.  You have done the research, found an ethical breeder and picked out a piglet.  But what can you do in the mean time to be as ready as possible for the day when you can bring him home?

Preparing Mentally

The first thing I suggest is to keep researching what kind of pet a pig is.  Watch YouTube videos on pig training techniques.  Find blogs by people with pet pigs – they are usually brutally honest.  Find a vet that is knowledgeable about pigs and feels comfortable treating them.  Learn about pig behaviors and the different stages they go through over a lifetime.

Another way to prepare for your pet pig is to figure our where in the house you want his area to be.  It is best to keep your piglet in an enclosed area for the first few weeks.  Some ideas are:  a laundry room, a sectioned off part of a room or closet, a playpen, a closet with a baby gate, etc.

Its really important not to skip this step.  When a piglet gets to a new environment, its perfectly natural for it to be confused and scared.  It will also be too young to be able to control it’s bladder if it is under 8 months or so.  When you are unable to keep both eyes on him, keep him in his area where he and your rugs are safe.  When you see your piggy consistently using the litter box, you can slowly make that area bigger.  Eventually they will be trustworthy and will be able to have free roam of the house.

Piggy Supplies

The list of piggy necessities is short so lets start there.  The most important thing to have in advance is mini pig food.  I use Mazuri but there are several good brands (Sharp’s, Purina).  A non tip bowl and bed are also things you should have.  Don’t forget a litter box and something to put inside of it (non clumping, recycled newspaper pellets, washable pee pads).

Aside from the necessities, there are some things that will help your pig to stay busy and happy.  Cheerios are a good snack plus they love them.  Toys are also a good idea (dog toys, treat toys, make sure they are animal safe).  Stocking up on blankets is also good.  Our pigs love a nice warm heating pad (used with supervision of course because some pigs chew on cords).

Being  prepared for your new pet pig is a must if you are going to succeed as a pig owner.  Hundreds of pigs end up in sanctuaries, rehomed or even euthanized because people don’t truly understand what it means to have a pig for a pet. If you have specific questions,  please feel free to email me.  I am always available to educate people.

Check out my YouTube Channel for more information on how to get ready for a piglet.