I am fond of pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals.
~ Winston Churchill
Mini-Pigs and Some Necessities
Living in central Florida provides its challenges for all of the animals on the farm, our mini pigs are no exception.
Pigs in general do not sweat, so the only way they are able to regulate their body temperature is from external sources. Strong as they are pig enclosures need to be built sturdy enough to keep them in.
Pigs are smart animals (some say smarter than your average dog) so they will test their perimeters in an attempt to find ways to get out of their designated areas.
Temperature Control for Outdoor Mini-Pigs
The pig house (Casa la oinkers) is a cement block structure with a temperature sensor to either turn on a heating element (fire-safe chicken brooder heating plate) during our brief winters as well as operate the ventilation fan & DIY Swamp Cooler during our long summers.
In addition to their cement block structure water misters have been installed to periodically dampen the permieter of the enlosure in order for them to cool themselves down.
Maintenance. the structure measures 6′ x 4′ OD and can be accessible by either hinged door or main access opening in the roof. This allows for easier maintenance and replacement of items within the structure.
The structure being made of mostly cement allows us to hose out the interior for cleaning if such event arises.
New Mini Pigs
“Hazel & Coco joined our family when they were around 10 weeks of age. A little larger than a handful they have since become the center attention on the farm.”
Adjusting to Outdoor Life
The pair of mini-pigs are always letting us know when food or treats should be served.