Pig Keeping
We do have pigs for sale from time to time but we would ask any potential pig keeper to consider the following before making a purchase:-
You will need to register with SEERAD (Scotland) or DEFRA (England & Wales) before you make any purchase. You will be issued with a County Parish Holding number (CPH) and a Herd number.
You also need to register with Trading Standards as you have to notify them of all pig movements to and from your holding.
If you want to breed with your pigs and register them as pedigree, or want to show them, you will need to join the BPA and obtain a Herd Prefix and HDL. If they are not registered with the BPA then they are not pedigree.
If you are fattening weaners for yourself consider whether you will be able to send them away to the abattoir when the time comes. Lots of people like the idea of producing their own food but when it comes to the crunch they can't go through with it. Do you know where your local abattoir is and do you have the transport to get them there? You will also have to complete the relevant movement forms and there are new food chain information forms to complete prior to taking your animals to the abattoir. You will also need to find someone to butcher the carcase if you can't do it yourself. If you plan to sell your meat then you are required to register with the Food Standards Agency.
Should you buy gilts for breeding then ask yourself why are you doing it? If it is because you like the idea of having lots of little piglets running about then please consider the following carefully. Piglets, like any young animals, are very cute and amusing to watch when small. However, look at the sow and remember that this is what they grow up to be - and they grow extremely quickly! On average, Saddlebacks will produce litters of about 10 piglets - that's a lot of sausages to find a home for if you're not prepared, and not all of them will comply with breed standards so that they can be sold for breeding.
Pigs are not designed to be pets - they are agricultural animals and are subject to a number of rules and legislation. They can dig for Britain, eat you out of house and home and even the most placid sow can be unpredictable and bite when she has piglets (Robert can vouch for this!) However, if you have the dedication and resources to help conserve this wonderful breed, then it could be one of the most enjoyable and rewarding things you will ever do.
If you require any help or advice then don't hesitate to contact us or contact the BPA or the British Saddleback Breeders' Club.