Micro-pigs, bred to be much smaller than conservative pigs, have become popular pets but they are still farm animals and can grow much bigger, ministers warn. New pig owners should contact their vet, register their animal, have it identified and learn about its welfare needs. They are urged not to move it without a licence or feed it kitchen scraps. Pigs are subject to the same disease control measures and system as commercial livestock, says the Environment Department (Defra).
‘Remember that a pig is a ranch animal and not a pet for Christmas,’ said agriculture minister Jim Paice. ‘A micro-pig may sound like a popular gift idea – but, beware, it can grow too big. I’ve already heard stories about micro-pigs outgrowing their homes.’ Mr Paice advises pig fans to pop along to a petting farm if they want to see the mini creatures. Defra said that pigs kept as pets are still considered farm animals in law because of their wellbeing needs and the risk of spreading disease.
No comments:
Post a Comment