A pig is not just for Christmas, the UK government warned today as it issued advice to people who might be considering buying a "micro-pig" as a festive gift.

Micro-pigs, bred to be much smaller than conventional pigs, have become popular pets, but ministers are warning they are still farm animals ˗ and can grow much bigger than expected.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) is issuing advice to prospective pig and micro-pig owners explaining the requirements of owning pigs, which are subject to the same disease control measures and regulations as commercial livestock.

Agriculture Minister Jim Paice said: "This season, remember that a pig is a farm animal, and not a pet for Christmas.

"A micro-pig may sound like a popular gift idea ˗ but beware the pig that grows too big.

"This year already I've heard some interesting stories about micro-pigs becoming bigger and outgrowing their homes.

"So if you'd like to see pigs this festive season, pop along to your local petting farm."

DEFRA said that pigs kept as pets were still considered farm animals in the eyes of the law, because of their welfare needs and the risk of spreading disease.

As a result, the Environment Department has issued an advice leaflet for people thinking of buying a pig, including top 10 dos and don'ts, to help keep pigs fit and healthy and protect owners from being prosecuted.

Do:

  • Ask your veterinary surgeon or local Animal Health office for advice if you are thinking of buying a pet pig;
  • Make sure that you know what type of pig you are buying so that you can provide it with a suitable environment to live in;
  • Make sure that you understand and are able to cater for the welfare needs of your pig before you get it;
  • Register your pig(s) with Animal Health as soon as they are on your premises;
  • Make sure that your pig is properly and legally identified;
  • Implement good bio-security to protect both yours and your pig's health;
  • Keep proper records of your pig's movements and any veterinary treatment that it receives.

Don't:

  • Move your pig(s) without the proper licence;
  • Feed your pig(s), or allow your pig(s) access to any waste food, kitchen scraps or food that has come from a commercial or domestic kitchen.

Note:

In Malta a few months back, a pot-bellied pig made The Times front page after attracting much attention when it went on sale for a whooping €500 at a popular flower kiosk in Valletta’s Republic Street.

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