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Keeping Pigs

Keeping pigs can be a rewarding endeavor for lifestyle farmers in New Zealand, providing a source of meat, fertilizer, and even companionship. Here's a basic guide to help you get started:

Pig keeping in New Zealand

1. Choosing the Right Breed

  • Select a pig breed that suits your needs and environment. Some popular pig breeds in New Zealand include the Large White, Duroc, Berkshire, and Tamworth.
  • Consider factors such as temperament, size, growth rate, and suitability for your farming practices.

2. Housing and Fencing

Pigs require adequate housing and fencing
  • Housing should be cool and sturdy. The pig has no furry coat so needs protection from the sun and cold. Pigs have a strong, sensitive snout with a set of powerful muscles, so pig houses should be solidly made.
  • Provide a secure and comfortable housing area for your pigs. This could be a sturdy pig pen or a pig house.
  • Ensure adequate ventilation and protection from extreme weather conditions.
  • Use strong fencing to contain your pigs and prevent them from escaping. Electric fencing can be effective for this purpose.

3. Feeding and Nutrition

  • Pigs have diverse dietary needs depending on their age, size, and purpose (e.g., breeding, fattening, or pet).
  • A pig must eat 3 kg of feed to gain 1 kg of weight. A typical total feed requirement (to reach slaughtering weight) is 270 to 320 kgs.
  • A balanced diet typically includes grains, vegetables, fruits, and occasionally meat or dairy by-products.
  • Consult with a veterinarian or livestock nutritionist to formulate a feeding plan tailored to your pigs' requirements.

4. Healthcare

  • Regularly monitor the health of your pigs for signs of illness or injury.
  • Vaccinate your pigs against common diseases and parasites, such as swine fever, foot-and-mouth disease, and internal parasites.
  • Establish a relationship with a local veterinarian who has experience with pigs.
  • Permanent pig componds tend to attract a build up of parasites. If possible, try moving them around.

5. Breeding and Reproduction

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  • If you plan to breed your pigs, ensure you have suitable breeding stock and facilities.
  • Learn about pig breeding cycles and reproductive management techniques.
  • Provide appropriate care for pregnant sows and newborn piglets, including proper nutrition and housing.
  • Breeding for Leanness: Modern pigs are bred to be lean and meaty, unlike the fat ones that were popular when lard brought a high price. You can recognise a meat-type pig from its wide, straight stance, and long lean muscular physique with thick shoulders and hams.

6. Handling and Training

Handling and Training Pigs
  • Handle your pigs calmly and gently to build trust and minimize stress.
  • Train your pigs to respond to basic commands and behaviors, such as walking on a lead or entering a trailer.

7. Waste Management

  • Implement a waste management plan to handle pig manure and bedding effectively.
  • Compost pig waste to produce organic fertilizer for your farm or garden.

8. Legal Considerations

  • Familiarize yourself with local regulations and ordinances governing pig farming, including zoning restrictions and animal welfare standards.
  • Obtain any necessary permits or licenses for keeping pigs on your property.

9. Networking and Resources

  • Stay informed about advancements in pig husbandry, genetics, and management techniques.
  • Regularly evaluate your farming practices and make adjustments to improve efficiency, productivity, and animal welfare.
  • Join local farming associations or online communities to connect with other pig keepers and exchange knowledge and experiences.
  • Attend workshops, seminars, or agricultural fairs to learn from experts and stay updated on best practices in pig farming.
Stay update on best practices in pig farming

Pigs for Companionship

Being intelligent animals, pigs are companionable creatures. They can become bored easily and ideally, need to be able to forage in the open. Confined pigs need something to distract them such as a pile of straw, bucket of cabbage stalks, or a dangling chain from the roof. Bored pigs tend to misbehave, so try keep your pigs amused! Keeping a pig as a pet can be a unique and rewarding experience, but it's important to understand the responsibilities and considerations involved. 

pet pig
  • Pigs are social animals and can become lonely if left alone for long periods. Consider getting a pair of pigs if you can accommodate them and are prepared for the added responsibility.
  • Depending on the breed, pigs can live anywhere from 10 to 20 years or more. Consider the long-term commitment before bringing a pig into your home.
  • Pigs need adequate space to roam and root around. Even "miniature" pig breeds can weigh several hundred pounds when fully grown. Make sure you have enough outdoor space for your pig to move around comfortably.
  • Pigs are intelligent animals and can be trained similarly to dogs. Positive reinforcement techniques work well for teaching them commands and tricks. Socialization is also important to prevent behavioral issues.
  • Pigs are naturally active animals and need opportunities for exercise. Provide them with toys and enrichment activities to keep them mentally stimulated.
Pig Pets
Pig Drinker | Heavy Duty Push Button 1.8 Litre
Pig Drinker | Heavy Duty Push Button 1.8 Litre

Pig Drinker | Heavy Duty Push Button 1.8 Litre

$109.00
Pig Drinker | Heavy Duty Push Button
Pig Drinker | Heavy Duty Push Button

Pig Drinker | Heavy Duty Push Button

$139.00
Heavy Duty Carbon Heat Lamp Set with 400mm Shade
Heavy Duty Carbon Heat Lamp Set with 400mm Shade

Heavy Duty Carbon Heat Lamp Set with 400mm Shade | Commercial | Interheat

$159.95
900 watt Carbon Fibre Lamp | Interheat
900 watt Carbon Fibre Lamp | Interheat

900 watt Carbon Fibre Lamp | Interheat

$60.00
Kibbled Maize
Kibbled Maize

Kibbled Maize

$25.00

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