Comments on: How to Care for Your 4-H Pig

on 8/24/2007 I have a minature potbellie pig and he runs around with the dogs all day long.

on 8/8/2006 Like us, pigs sunburn. But they burn twice as easy. It's good to have lots of shade and cold water during the summer. Like horses and cows, pigs will also sleep in the sun, this results in a major sun burn. However, a serious sunburn can effect the nerves of a pig, causing them to stumble and fall, and often times their hind end will collapse out from under them. This may cause permanent damage to your pig if continued. It is very scary and sad to watch. Also like us, you can use aloe vera sunburn lotion on them. It feels just as good to them as it does on our sunburns. It is also a good idea to use fly powder during the spring and summer, to keep bloat flies from getting under your pigs skin and laying eggs. Good luck.

on 7/1/2006 If your pig stops walking in the middle of the show ring, get down and speak softly to the pig. This develops a voice recognition and bond with the pig.

on 3/20/2006 The best thing you can do to prepare your pig for the show is to give it a massage every once in a while. Seriously! Rub your hands over all parts of the pig, gently or vigorously as your pig prefers and talk to it while you are doing it. Pigs love it and they will become very familiar with you. Maybe 10 minutes 2 or 3 times a week, or more if you have time, should do the trick. You will soon learn what your pigs sweet spot is (behind the ears is a favorite). Feeding time is a great opportunity. I promise you will have the most friendly and well socialized pig at the show.

on 2/7/2006 If you want your pigs to not run from you, and go wherever you want them to go, all you have to do is work with them every day. You should be able to let them out and they should not run like raging maniacs, just get them out every single day and you'll be just fine!!

on 11/22/2005 If it's only your first time showing, and you're having trouble with your pig getting out of hand, always keep apple slices at hand. These will help calm your pig. Feed it to your pig as you are walking it out of your pen toward to show pen. And as always, give your pig TLC. A week before the show, have someone help you practice showing your pig. Have them pretend to be the judge. Remember to always stay 10-15 feet away from the judge.

on 11/22/2005 Make sure your pig has good clean straw or wood chips. Keep a shovel handy, as you may need to clean up after it. If the bedding gets wet, change it as soon as possible. (You don't want it to get sick.)

on 11/22/2005 Never let a pig out of its pen. It will tear up your yard or run away. If the pig gets out, coax it with food to get it back in the pen.