While most people own cats, dogs, reptiles, or rodents, some decide that a pot belly pig is the animal for them. Thee pigs come in a traditional size, but some breeders will offer miniature potbellied pigs instead. Miniature pot belly pigs are normally small, but they can reach up to 200 lbs. They are considered an exotic pet in America. The most commonly owned type of pot belly pig is the Vietnamese Pot-Bellied Pig. These farm animals can act a lot like a dog when they are treated well. In fact, miniature pot belly pigs can often be kept in the house the same as a housedog. One animal hospital recommends that owners train their pigs like a dog so that it will notify them when it has to go outside.

The pigs are smart, and will respond well to faithful housetraining. Like dogs, pigs need to be walked for exercise. Many hay and feed stores will offer harnesses and leashes that fit snugly around a pot belly pig’s midsection. When the pigs are young, they can often be carried much like puppies. As they grow older, it will be easier to transport them by strapping on the leash and walking them where you would like to do. Because pigs are shaped differently than dogs, you will have to get an actual harness to put on your pig before you take it for a walk. A dog collar will slip over a pig’s head if he or she is reluctant to walk.

You can also purchase a pet carrier for when you have to transport your pig in the car. A kennel with blankets laid down in the bed will normally be able to hold a small pig for these sorts of trips. It’s important to note that pet pigs will still be regulated by the government the same way other farm animals are. This means that governmental agencies regard pot-bellied pigs the same way that they regard commercial swine. They may require that your pig undergoes serologic testing or ask you to obtain health papers from a veterinarian before you transport your pig to another state or county.

Sometimes, the government will require that pigs be blood tested for pseudorabies and swine brucellosis. These two illnesses are contagious, and the government does not want them to spread from swine to swine. Some jurisdictions won’t allow men and women to keep pigs, because they are technically considered a livestock. You will need to check with your local authorities before purchasing one of these beloved pets and bringing them into your home. Pot belly pigs will eat just about anything but should be fed a balanced diet that way they can grow to be healthy. Some feed stores may have pig mix foods that are excellent for these pets to eat.

If you want to offer your pot belly pig a treat, raisins are a great place to start. Like dogs, these little pigs may ask for snacks. You should try to avoid feeding them table scraps or human food for the most part in order to keep them fit. These pigs tend to become obese easily, which can lead to back problems in the future. Because of those you may want to be careful to regulate your pig’s food intake and talk to a vet about diet supplements and pet weight loss programs.

These pigs should be given all the same vaccinations as commercial swine. You will want to talk to your veterinarian to discuss the vaccinations that you should get for your pig based on the common diseases in your area. Pigs are also prone to psuedorabies, which is not the same as the rabies diseases that dogs normally contract. You should not vaccinate your pig the rabies disease that can be obtained by dogs, because it is not the same and the vaccination can harm, rather than help your pig. These farm animals are also susceptible to internal parasites. You may need to bring your pig to the vet if you notice that he or she is having digestive problems, because the animal may need to be dewormed to get rid of these parasites. Pigs are also prone to obtain an upper respiratory system infection in their nose. Rhinitis can clog the nasal passage or cause a bloody nasal discharge. You can prevent rhinitis with a vaccination, but if an illness develops you will want to consult your vet for proper treatment. If you have more questions about your pot belly pig and how to care for him or her properly, then contact a veterinarian in your area today!