How Do I Travel With My Pig?
Most pigs love to go places. From a very early age it is an excellent idea for
your pig to experience as many new situations as possible. When you allow
your pet to interact with different people in different locations you are
reinforcing the important lesson that all people in all situations are above it. The
active pig with a broad life experience is more stimulated, more cooperative, and
better trained.
It is wise to travel with the pig in a carrier, especially on the first outings. The
carrier is a confined, safe place for the pig in case of an accident. It also
provides a place that is off the upholstering and carpeting of your car, just in
case your pig needs to go to the bathroom. Many times piglets need a bathroom
when they are riding in the car for the first few times. Be sure to take a change
of bedding, paper towels and plastic bags just in case. As your pig ages it is your
choice about the carrier. But, remember in case of an accident your pig is much
less likely to not be severely injured if it is in a pet carrier.
The first step to a successful outing, whether a short trip to the bank, a trip to the
Veterinarian, or a car trip to relatives is to harness
and lead train your piglet. Harness training provides
you the freedom to allow your pig out of the carrier.
Without the harness and lead you have no control
over your pig’s actions. If it becomes frightened it
will bolt and run. With all the new experiences that
can cause your pig concern and with the possibility
of a strange dog showing up, it is very important that
your pig always be wearing a harness and lead when
it is away from home.
If you are stopping at hotels, motels, or parks check
on any rules or limitations they may have regarding
pets. Make sure there is a grassy area nearby which
animals are allowed to use. Take along small plastic
bags to pick up any elimination. A ground floor motel room or easy access to the
hotel or motel elevator is also very important.
There are a number of hotels that are allowing guests to check in with their pets. Some hotels even offer special pet-pampering programs. Although many lodgings bill themselves as pet-friendly call ahead for specifics, because some places only accept pets of the smaller variety or have limits on how many animals can be in residence at any given time.
Hotels and Motels Your Pig Could Stay With You
- Four Seasons Hotel – Washington D.C. and Boston: 800-332-3442
- Holiday Inn – More than 1,000 locations accept pets: 800-HOLIDAY
- Lowes Hotels: 800-23-LOEWS
- The Ritz-Carlton: 800-241-3333
- Best Western: 800-528-1234
- Comfort Inn: 800-221-2222
- Motel 6: 800-466-8356
- Soho Grand: New York: 800-965-3000
If you are visiting friends or relatives, make sure your host freely accepts the pig
as a houseguest. Your pig will need a fenced area so that it can go outside to the
bathroom. A good idea is to plan ahead with your host about the sleeping
arrangements for your pig and a private area or room that you can use, if
necessary, for time out or for disciplining your pig.
Another issue is how your pig will be introduced to the host family. You need
to explain the best way for your pig to be approached and petted. Do not allow
anyone to pick your pig up without your close supervision. It is very important
that they understand that your pig is on a restricted diet and that certain foods
are off limits. If there are other pets in the house it is wise to limit your pig’s
access to them. Do not leave your pig alone in an area with your host’s pets
without close and continuous supervision.
Depending on your pig’s age, a carrier, harness and lead, food and water bowls,
bedding, toys, litter box and litter, sunscreen and swimming pool, pig coat,
ramp, child’s safety gate, carpet cleaner and paper towels, and a medical kit can
all help you on your trip with your pig.
By allowing your pig the opportunity to interact with all types of people in all
kinds of situations you are reinforcing the concept that all people are ahead of it.
Also, the fun of sharing your incredible pet and all its amazing abilities will give
you a sense of pride and joy.
© Kathleen Myers 2000, All Rights Reserved Worldwide
By Kathleen Myers.
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