This information is provided to help all prospective potbelly pig owners know what to look for in a responsible breeder of potbelly pigs. Ethics, genetics, and a very good health care program are what separates good and bad potbelly pig breeders. The requirements listed here should be your minimum breeding stardards when choosing a potbelly pig breeder.
- The Breeder
Houses her pigs in a clean, healthy, non-stressful environment - Retains a qualified veterinarian experienced in the care of potbelly pigs to verify and maintain her herd health program (and able to produce health records for you as well as vet contact information)
- Breeds her females according to age, size, and development; not before her third heat and not younger than six months of age minimum
- Provides proper prenatal care and post farrowing (birthing) care for breeding pigs and their young.
- Does NOT underfeed her pigs in hopes of keeping their size small (proper feeding and veterinary guidelines are also provided to new pig owners)
- Weans her piglets no younger than 5 weeks of age; Does NOT place piglets younger than at least 7 weeks of age, eating solid food and minimally socialized
- NEVER sells "bottle babies", studies have shown bottle babies tend to become aggressive at about 2 years of age!
- Sells only neutered males and spayed females if intended as pets
- Permanently identifies any pig sold unless waived by client (required when traveling across state lines)
- Requests local zoning ordinances from prospective pig owners to ensure a pet pig is legal in their home prior to placement
- Provides all required health certificates and testing for interstate travel
- Offers prospective clients the opportunity to visit her farm to see her herds living arrangements and the adult size of her herd
- Public Relations
The breeder keeps a potbelly pig as a house pet to experience first hand the care, feeding, housing, training and veterinary care necessary to provide her clients with well adjusted healthy pet pigs - She explains to prospective pet pig owners the physical and behavioral characteristics to help determine if a pet pig is the right pet for them
- Subscribes to magazines and newsletters, promotes the potbelly pig by visiting nursing homes, schools, fairs etc.
- Client Support
Guarantees the health of all pet pigs to be free from genetic defect. She will replace a pig who is deemed otherwise by a licensed, qualified veterinarian or refund the cost of the pig. She honors all guarantees made to her buyer. - Sells only pigs registered with the National Potbelly Pig Registry (NPPR)
- She provides health records and registration papers at the time of sale
- Is honest with prospective clients about the expected size of adult pigs based on breeding pigs at least 3 yrs old. Genetics, environmental factors and feeding practices determine size.
- Provides clients with information regarding proper feeding, housing, training and veterinary care.
- Always be available to answer questions and provide support after a pig is adopted for the life of the pig
As I've shown you here there is alot to consider when choosing a breeder. These minimal basic requirements should help you in determing if you are dealing with a responsible breeder. You should feel comfortable with this person as you will require his or her support throughout the life of your new pet pig.
As always, if you have ANY questions about any information provided here please just ASK! We LOVE what we do and we are more than happy to answer your questions!
