Congratulations on your adoption. Now that you have welcomed your new family member what is next?

Adapting to the new environment takes time and patience for pig and new family. Having the previous owner send an item the pig has used and an item of each new family member. Smells from items placed in pigs sleep area will let pig know the smells are comforting and trustworthy.

When piggy stays to his/herself without interacting with family it can be overwhelming trying to understand what is wrong and how to resolve it.

Questions to ask yourself?

1. Can pig see you but still have own space away from noise?
2. Does pig have toys to come out and play with?
3. Is pig sick? fever? not going potty?
4. Is pig eating meals outside of his/her pen area? If pig is eating in own space and uses a potty box and goes back to bed start feeding elsewhere in home and train to go potty outdoors

If pigs’ location is separated from family adding a bedding space in central location for pig helps them see and feel comfortable and safe in their own time. Areas near the family allows your pig to come to you for attention, rubs or even a special treat. Pigs are social animals and want to be near you and other pigs they can talk to that speak their own language. When pigs feel left out and unable to interact with new family or see them, they can feel they might be sent away (especially if rehomed few times). Your new member previous life if was abused in any way or scared by item, sound or person can leave a mark deep within piggy making it challenging for new owner to get pig to trust them.

DO NOT GIVE UP and feel you’re not doing enough and rehome piggy. Pigs normally rehomed more than once or been abused have trust issues. Daily interactions, soft words, and a schedule will help pig adapt. Some pigs adapt without issue especially outdoor pigs where they have space to be with herd or alone to do piggy things. Pigs within home and introducing to other pig can be challenging especially when pig is grieving making other pig or new pig get frustrated and want to attack family or pets. If pig is used to being alone and suddenly a family of 5, a large dog or 2 and a cat are around 24 hours a day pig will be on guard and will take longer to adjust.

If pig sleeps the day away do not worry unless pig stops eating, going potty, is lethargic, or stopped drinking then intervention is required. As they get older you will see a change in sleep patterns

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