The caregivers of Marshall’s Piggy Paradise at Best Friends Animal Society’s Sanctuary in Kanab recently decided to throw their favorite residents a summer pool party complete with plenty of watermelon slices, almond bobbing, and pig trivia.
Photos courtesy of Best Friends Animal Society.
“We love our pigs and wanted to celebrate them in a really fun way,” said Rosalie Wind, lifesaving specialist and caregiver at the Sanctuary. “It was super cute to see them splashing around in the water and enjoying some special snacks.” “Potbellied pigs can make wonderful pets — they’re intelligent, friendly, and downright adorable. Some like belly rubs and will come running for treats,” Wind added. “Their grunting, snorting and wallowing — signs that they are happy and content — and charming personalities make them truly lovable.” Wind suggests potential pig parents consider the following before they bring home a potbelly:
Pigs require time and attention, as well as a veterinarian that is comfortable caring for them. Males will need their tusks trimmed yearly and all pigs will need hoof trims every few months.
They don’t need a ton of land, but pigs should have room to roam in a livestock-approved property.
Pigs should live with other pigs, since they can provide enrichment, mental and physical stimulation, and companionship that other animals can’t provide. Because they are prey animals, pigs need each other to feel safe.
Providing insulated shelter to protect pigs from predators and escaping is a must.
Potbellied pigs are omnivores, so their natural diet in the wild would include roots, veggies, nuts, seeds, berries, worms, insects and raw eggs. Of course, you can’t imitate this diet for your pigs, but you can feed them a variety of healthy foods. It’s a good idea to feed pigs larger meals twice a day (breakfast and dinner) and healthy snacks throughout the day.
There are sanctuaries all over the country, like Best Friends, with potbellies looking for homes. To find adoptable pigs, visit bestfriends.org or do an online search for a pig sanctuary in your area.
