How Do I Care For My Pig In The Summer?
In the summer pigs need shade for protection from the sun and adequate
ventilation and circulation in their houses. A pig’s skin is very similar to ours in
that it can sunburn easily as the seasons change. To protect your pig from
sunburn, apply a topical sunscreen to your pet. If you see redness developing
from the sun, use any product that you would use on yourself for sunburn relief.
Try to stay away from those products that have an extremely oily base. Using an
oil-based product on your pig will only cause dirt to be retained on the pig’s
body and hair.
All pigs that are outside for an extended period of time need be provided a
wading pool of clean water. Potbellied pigs do
not pant or perspire. When it is hot they need
water to submerse themselves in so that they
can dissipate their body heat. Without water
on a hot summer’s day, they have no way of
expelling the heat build up in their body and
can easily die of heat stroke. It is
recommended that the water in this pool be
changed frequently since some potbellies may choose to use their wading pools
as a bathroom. Potbellies tend to urinate in low-lying areas where water often
stands.
A pig kept in the house should have its bed placed well away from drafts caused
by air conditioning. Also, pigs living in air conditioning will need a blanket or
sheet to snuggle up with.
It is very important to not leave a pig in your vehicle during the spring and
summer months. Heatstroke can occur in a very few minutes. Heatstroke can
lead to brain damage or death. Signs of heatstroke are rapid, excessive breathing
with mouth open, rapid pulse, and fever. To cool your pig, immediately stand it in cool water. Only cool your pig from the feet up. Do not pour water over its
head or body, because this method may cause your pig to go into shock. If you
do not see a rapid positive response to standing your pig in water, then seek
immediate emergency Veterinary assistance.
Your pig should have access to clean, fresh drinking water at all times during
the summer months. Keeping your pig hydrated is very important at any time of
the year.
Avoid strenuous exercise with your potbelly on extremely hot days and
completely refrain from physical activity when the sun's heat is most intense.
Insects may bite your pig. Areas around the ears, on the inside of the legs and on
the stomach are places the pig is most susceptible to insect bites. If your potbelly
is bitten or stung, remove the stinger and watch the site for an allergic reaction.
Should an allergic reaction occur, or if there have been multiple wasp, bee or
mosquito bites, take your pig to the Veterinarian. To help prevent mosquito bites
spray your pig with a human insect repellent or apply Avon Skin So Soft to its
body. Make certain you do not get any repellent in your pig’s eyes.
Even though potbellies normally do not carry fleas and ticks, as your dog or cat
might, it is important to check your pig daily for fleas and ticks. It is always
possible for your pig to get into a flea or tick infested area.
Some lawn and garden products such as fertilizers may be hazardous to your
potbelly’s health. Consider using only natural or no fertilizers in your pig’s
area, especially those places your pig will be grazing. Also, be sure that plants
within your pet's reach are not toxic.
No matter how careful and responsible you may be, accidents can happen. You
know your pig better than anyone else, but it is important to remember most of
us are not medical professionals. If you are uncertain how to treat your pig's
medical needs or if you have any questions, contact your veterinarian
immediately. Make sure Animal Poison Control and your Veterinarian’s phone
numbers are close at hand and available to all family members.
ASPCA National Animal
Poison Control Center
24-hour emergency information at 888-4ANI-HELP.
All pigs that are outside for an extended period of time need be provided a
wading pool of clean water. Potbellied pigs do
not pant or perspire. When it is hot they need
water to submerse themselves in so that they
can dissipate their body heat. Without water
on a hot summer’s day, they have no way of
expelling the heat build up in their body and
can easily die of heat stroke. It is
recommended that the water in this pool be
changed frequently since some potbellies may choose to use their wading pools
as a bathroom. Potbellies tend to urinate in low-lying areas where water often
stands.24-hour emergency information at 888-4ANI-HELP.
© Kathleen Myers 2000, All Rights Reserved Worldwide
By Kathleen Myers.
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