How to Prepare My Pig For School Starting?
The transition from summer vacation as you or the children return to school or a different work schedule can be difficult for some pigs. Staying home alone after summer fun with the family may, in some cases, require you to provide more attention than normal to your pet pig. On the other hand, some pigs are happy entertaining themselves or just sleeping away the hours of the day while you and the family are away from home.
To help prepare your pig for the hours spent alone be sure it has a comfortable bed, fresh drinking water, a litter box, if necessary, and safe pig toys, which you will rotate, for play. It is wise to not let your pet pig have the full run of your house while you are away. If it is necessary for your pet pig to remain inside all day keep it in a smaller area such as a utility room, bedroom or large bathroom. A smaller space will help make it feel more secure, and can allow your pet to rest more quietly. A protected outside space for your pig is another alternative. If possible provide it a "pig door" so that it can choose to go its outside area during your absence.
In the morning before you leave allow your pig some outside yard time, take a walk, or practice some pig tricks. This will stimulate your pig, provide quality together time and also burn up some of that extra energy. Your pig will be more likely to rest quietly if it has had a little morning exercise before you leave. Turn on a radio or TV when you go. Leave it tuned to the same station you listen to when you are home. The familiar sounds may help your pig feel less stressed by your absence.
If you cannot get home during school hours and your pig does not have access to outside, ask a friend or neighbor to come to the house during the day to let your pig out into your back yard or to take your pig for a short walk. This, too, helps provide mid-day stimulation and exercise for your pet.
And finally, spend lots of time with your pig when you get home. You will want to enjoy every moment of this special time together.
© Kathleen Myers 2000, All Rights Reserved Worldwide
This is an excerpt from The Complete Guide to the Care and Training of Pet Potbellied Pigs
By Kathleen Myers.
For Ordering Information Go To.
To help prepare your pig for the hours spent alone be sure it has a comfortable bed, fresh drinking water, a litter box, if necessary, and safe pig toys, which you will rotate, for play. It is wise to not let your pet pig have the full run of your house while you are away. If it is necessary for your pet pig to remain inside all day keep it in a smaller area such as a utility room, bedroom or large bathroom. A smaller space will help make it feel more secure, and can allow your pet to rest more quietly. A protected outside space for your pig is another alternative. If possible provide it a "pig door" so that it can choose to go its outside area during your absence. By Kathleen Myers.
For Ordering Information Go To.
