Bringing In A New Pot
Bringing In A New PotThank you so much for your previous reply and encouragement. Slowly, our relationship with our two pigs has been improving. Now we have a new wrinkle. Yesterday, we took in an abandoned, dehydrated, and half-starved female potbelly. She's about 8 years old, and quite used to human contact. (Word about her is that she kisses people!) We currently have her safely in an enclosure within the much larger enclosure the two pigs live in. They, being males, are certainly quite interested in her. (She, on the other hand, seems like she could care less!) Obviously, we want her to have some time to get healthy. Meanwhile, she and the "boys" can at least see each other through the fencing that separates them. But how long should we wait before removing the barrier and letting them all meet face-to-face?
The "boys" are supposedly neutered. But they do like to mount each other; whether they do so as part of a dominance ritual or as something sexual is hard to tell.) But one of them in particular has almost literally been trying to bang down the door to get at the new female. Would I be right in assuming that some kind of dominance battle will take place when they meet, or is that something mainly between males? Any guidance you can offer would be appreciated. We certainly don't want to let them all meet prematurely.
Thanks again,
Jonathan
Normally neutered boys have no tendency to mount each other. Are you sure they are neutered? Do you ever see their penis out of it's sheath? Do they have an odor? Do you see their testicles when it is hot, or does it look like they have none? Have you ever tried to feel for their testicles?
If they are fertile or have an ascended testicle, she WILL get pregnant. So don't put them together until you are completely sure about the boys being neutered, otherwise you will have 6 or 8 more potbellies to take care of.
The adjacent pen method is one way to introduce the pigs. The theory is the pigs will become more familiar with one another over time and will be less likely to have an aggressive fight. To use this method the pigs should be placed in adjoining spaces, but separated securely by a gate or fence. They live next to each other for a week or two, getting to know each other through the fencing, but not having direct access to each other. After the time has passed the two pigs are then put together in one space. It is believed that, because they are somewhat familiar with each other, they will not have the need to show the same level of aggression as they would if they were total strangers.
There is another method some people use. It is "trial by fire". The pigs are put together in an area large enough for each pig to escape to a neutral corner. This method seems to work well for the older pig when you are adding a piglet to its herd. Normally the older, larger pig will show its dominance over the baby, and the baby will readily accepts its lower position in the new herd. There is evidence that the closer in age, size and temperament the more violent the fighting can become. For this reason it is wise for you to be prepared to intervene should the fighting become aggressive. Note that you do not want to put your hand or leg between two fighting pigs. Either pig might unintentionally bite you. It is better to have on leather gloves or denim pants. Another alternative is to use tools like a garden spray hose or a broom. Remember these are tools, not weapons. Your job is just to make sure that neither of the pigs is really harmed. During these normal tussles for pig dominance, the ears, neck and sides seem to be the most sought after attack areas. In reality all wounds will heal but be watchful for a pig that latches on to its new herd member’s ear. This method takes a shorter period of time than the adjacent housing method, but the pigs will probably be more aggressive in their fighting.
The third way is the "Ol’ Hog Farmer" method. The new pig is put with its new herd for the first time when it is dark outside and all the old pigs are asleep. They are provided separate beds, but in the same space. The theory is the new pig is more readily accepted into the herd because everyone wakes up together. Some fighting may occur, but it is believed it is kept to a minimum.
Whichever method you choose, one important factor is space. Be sure there is enough space when you introduce the new pig, that each pig has escape room and that they are not forced into each other's faces. If the unacquainted pigs are introduced in an outdoor area like your back yard the aggressive fighting can be reduced by as much as 50%. Do not try and feed the pigs in the same area until they establish who is the top pig in their herd. In an attempt to get more food they may start fighting again. In the beginning place their food bowls several feet from each other.
Copyright © 2000 by Kathleen Myers
Just keep in mind that after the hierarchical placement is achieved your pigs will
become friends and all will be well. This fighting is only temporary, it usually
last just a few short hours to a couple of days. This is all dependent on the pigs,
how they perceive their position in the herd and how much intervention you do.
I wouldn't do anything about putting them together until your new pig is completely well and strong. Depending on her condition, this healing could take several months. During this time be sure and worm her and give her vaccinations. Being a foundling pig who has been terribly mistreated, you don't want to put her with the boys for at least 60 days. By isolating her you can determine if she has any latent disease. If she has a disease she will infect your other pigs. If she had come from a situation that you were secure about and you knew that she had been given all that she needs to be healthy and happy, you could definitely shorten this time to maybe just a few days.
Be sure and feed her well and love her lots. She is lucky to have found you.
