photo by Brooklyn DeShea, Mississippi Farm Girl
Gentle Scratches & Soft Voices!
When you are introducing your new piglet to children, always start by having them sit on the floor or on the ground and then place the pig in their arms – make sure they hold the piglet snug against them, or have it swaddled in a blanket for easy holding. Since piglets need time to adjust, especially in the beginning, if they wiggle or squeal, the last thing you want is for a child to let go out of fear and drop your piglet! Let them know to gently scratch and pet the piglet and speak kindly and softly!
Practice & Patience, Y’all!
An easy way to remember it – piglets should be handled like a newborn baby, especially in their first few weeks in your care. If a child is rough handling your piglet, your pig may feel nervous when they’re picked up and squeal, wiggle, and want to be put down when they’re picked up! Start off on the ground and let them come to you and gain confidence in the fact you’re not going to hurt them!
Run To You – Not From You!
Always be aware, especially with children or friends who may not be familiar with piglets – let the pig be the one to run to you to see you. But never be the one running behind them or chasing them. If they feel preyed upon, your piglet will be scared to death and have a hard time wanting to come near you if they fear you. Until your piglet has started trusting you, take it slow, and allow them to warm up to you, a child, or a friend in a safe and comfortable place – at their pace. The more you interact and bond with your pig and vice versa, the easier this gets until it’s just like the back of your hand!
Remember – these first few weeks is is a rude awakening for your piglet – they’ve only known their siblings and their mother! They need time to adjust and trust you! Be sure your children realize they are just scared and need to feel safe and loved! They’re much different than a tiny puppy. It is nothing to be afraid about, but do be mindful of the fact that a pigs only way to make sound is to oink or squeal (sometimes loudly) … they are also born with little teeth so avoid sticking fingers in their mouths if they are squealing … My pigs that are grown, I dealt with all of this, too! So you’re not alone. At this time as my pigs have grown up around me and know who I am, if I put my fingers in their mouths they just gum my finger and suck on them because the trust and friendship is mutual! Your baby wants to be loved by you! Keep going every day and keep persistent in loving them!