Today we will continue our discussion on the art of pig production in the tropics as we take a look at what you should consider before you buy a pig. I hope this helps.
WHEN BUYING YOUR PIGS
Let me start by saying if you want to make it big time in pig farming, you must be ready to spend big time on the purchase of quality breeds of pig.
As you move to buy stocks for your farm, do the following:
– Gather as much knowledge as you can about the business and the breed you want to buy.
– Be prepared to get good breeds for your farm.
– When you get to the farm, ask about the age of the pig, weight and if possible request to see the parents (this will give you a clue of what to expect)
– Select only active pigs without blisters on their body, pigs free of nasal, buccal or ocular discharges, make sure the pigs are eating and drinking well.
– Select only pigs with clear shiny skin, if they are white, let their white be without injuries and any other form of scars, if they are brown or any other colour, make sure they are healthy
– As much as you can, check their medication/vaccination records.
– When transporting, do so early in the morning or late at night, never transport pigs when the weather is hot, because they lack sweat gland and as such react badly when the weather is hot.
As soon as they arrive your farm, do not add the new stocks with your old stocks if you have, keep them isolated for as much as 14 days to watch them (quarantine).
– As they arrive your farm, provide cool drinking water for them and another water for them to wallow in, allow them rest for up to 3 hours before feeding them, you will know they are okay for feeding when the rate of their breathing reduces.
