Farm Animals

Rotavirus is a serious problem in pig populations, according to ThePigSite.com. The virus is resistant to disinfectants and environmental changes. Its symptoms are different depending on a pig's...

Whether for an animal themed party or just for arts and craft time, you and any little ones can make a pig pin with basic craft materials. Have all of your supplies on hand before you begin. This...

Finding a miniature pot belly pig for sale will often depend on your location -- if you happen to live near a breeder, you're in luck. Smaller farm animals, often acquired for pets rather than...

It is not uncommon for pigs to develop problems with their feet, especially if they have not been properly housed or cared for. If your pig appears lame or in pain, a close examination of each...

The liver and its functions are referred to as the hepatic system, from the Greek word meaning liver. Living pigs need their liver to properly digest and metabolize the nutrients they eat....

At the fair, hog exhibitors will get two chances to show their pig. Learn about showing pigs for livestock judging at the fair from an FFA member in this free animal husbandry video.

At most pig shows, a supreme showman and reserve showman are picked, as are a grand and reserve champion animal. Learn about showing pigs for livestock judging and awards from an FFA member in...

Judges often look at cuts of meat in pig shows. Learn about the success of pig show winners from an FFA member in this free animal husbandry video.

It's important to teach kids to stay calm for pig shows. Learn about training kids to show pigs for livestock judging and auctions from an FFA member in this free animal husbandry video.

When looking at a pig or hog, make sure they carry definition and muscling down the ham. Learn about buying show pigs for livestock judging and auctions from an FFA member in this free animal...

Hog wire is better than chain-link fences when building a pig pen. Learn about building a pig pen for show hogs from an FFA member in this free animal husbandry video.

Fattening up a pig for slaughter should take approximately 5 months, from starting the pig to finishing and dressing out the porker. There are many ways in which the maximum amount of weight may...

Pigs are sometimes fitted with nose rings to prevent them from rooting in the ground. The basic principle is that you don't want a pig to root excessively, because it could ruin crops or lead to...

A female pig, called a sow, can become pregnant once it is 8 months old, and usually remain fertile until they are 18 months old. Male pigs, or boars, become sexually active once they are 8 to 10...

Unless you are planning on using them for breeding purposes, male hogs should be neutered as quickly as possible. Neutering your hog will mean that it will spend more time focusing on eating and...

Learn facts about what pigs eat in this free video on raising farm animals, with animal husbandry tips.

Learn facts about pig eating habits & digestion in this free video on raising farm animals, with animal husbandry tips.

Learn facts about pig stages of growth in this free video on raising farm animals, with animal husbandry tips.

Not so terribly long ago, most people raised their own food. Whether they lived on the farm or in a city, most at least had a garden. If they had the space, often they would raise a pig for...

If you want your pig to win first prize at the local fair, or you're just fattening the animal for his future as a slab of bacon, it takes more than just the right diet to hit and maintain that...

While a pet pig may not be as eager to learn tricks as your average family dog, you may be surprised at how intelligent this animal can be when properly motivated. Pigs are known for being...

Many chefs insist on butchering pigs themselves, since it makes them feel more connected to the process of preparing food from start to finish. When you butcher a pig yourself, you can also be...

Most show pigs appear in open class shows or at 4-H fairs. Pigs should be trained for several months before the show to ensure they are obedient. Remember to register the pig for the show...

Think with your stomach when choosing the champion market pig at the state fair. Choose the best swine, or barrow, of the bunch by looking for the pig that will produce the largest amount of...

When a pig's hooves become overgrown they can cripple him over time. A pig should have his hooves trimmed from an early age so he gets used to it and it isn't a battle. The foot of a pig consists...

This is the fun part of entering your pet pig in a show. Enjoy yourself, and remember to smile.

A healthy, happy show pig needs nutritious food regularly. Choose a feed that's high in energy (corn), low in fiber (cellulose) and supplemented with protein.

Looking for a show pig? Choose a breed with good body structure and one that matches your personal preference.

Work with your pig a few weeks before the show to save your animal from excess stress during the event.