Are You ready to adopt?

More so than other pets, adopting a mini pig is a big commitment. Taking the first steps for success through education and the right placement will ensure a happy home for everyone. Choosing the right pig for your family and being prepared are the best things you can do to make the transition into your home as smooth as possible. 

Pigs, just like dogs and cats and many other pets, are given up for many different reasons. Some of our pigs came to us from loving homes. Others have not and need a lot more attention and care. Being a more experienced pig owner is best for our pigs with more challenging needs, while for new owners, a well socialized pig is probably a better fit. 

We like to make sure our pigs go to the perfect homes. Now that you’ve decided to adopt, here are some things to consider when choosing the perfect pig for you. 

1. Am I ready to adopt and bring a pig into my home?
2. Why am I adopting a pig?
3. Is my home a good environment for a pig? 
4. How flexible am I able to be if things don’t turn out the way I expect? What will I do?
5. Who will be the main caregiver for the pig?
6. How well prepared am I for this? Have I interacted with pigs, talked with other owners, done research on pig behavior and care?
7. Am I zoned for pigs?
8. What age/gender/breed/size am I expecting to adopt? Are these expectations realistic?
9. Can I afford the adoption fee, food, vet care, grooming, basic supplies?
10. Are my household members the right fit for a pig? Does everyone agree to having the pig? Is everyone able to go through behavior challenges as the pig adjusts?
11. Can I provide a stable home for the next twenty years? Do I foresee having to move or change housing? What would happen to my pig if this happened?
12. Ho much time to I have to dedicate to this pig?
13. How many pigs do I want?
14. Do I have other pets that might present an issue with having a pig?
15. Where will the pig live, inside or outside? Do I have the right accommodations and space for a pig?
16. Do I have a vet picked out for my pig?
17. If my pig is not spayed/neutered, can I afford to have this necessary surgery done?
18. Do I have a fenced yard? Is it big enough for a pig? Am I prepared for rooting? 
19. Do I have any toxic plants inside my house or in my yard that could make my pig sick?
20. How much time do I have to socialize my pig?
21. Do I want a pig that is already socialized or do I want to take on a more challenging rescue story that speaks to my heart?
22. How much challenging behavior (rooting, charging, escaping, biting) can I deal with? What is my breaking point? 
23. Where do I want to get my pig? A reputable breeder, rescue organization, or a private owner? How far am I willing to travel to find the perfect pig for my family?
24. What will happen if I introduce a new pig to the pig I already have? How will that change the dynamics of the house?
25. Do I know how to help a new pig bond with me? Can I be patient with the new pig if it doesn’t bond with me right away?
26. If for some reason the adoption doesn’t work, what will happen to the pig? How can I ensure it is safe and cared for if I cannot do that myself?
27. Can I commit to a loud, loving, active intelligent demanding pig for the rest of its life?