I want a pig! I need a pig!! Where will I find a pig? The one thing I know I have done correctly since beginning our journey into the simpler homestead lifestyle comes from advice received from a seasoned homesteader. He told me not to take on too much too quickly, add only one animal per year. At first, I thought I wouldn’t listen as everything was so new and exciting, but I remembered that only a fool doesn’t heed advice, so I resisted temptation and I have added only one new animal to our farm each year. First chickens, then rabbits, turkeys, ducks, then guineas. I missed several years as I had my hands full! It’s time for something new, but there’s a hitch.

I can’t get any backing on my quest for pigs. Each fall we purchase a pig from a responsible farmer who exclusively raises pigs. I can’t produce one cheaper as he has the volume on his side.

So why is raising a pig so important? Knowledge is power. I don’t need to raise an animal every year, but I would like the skill-set of pig raising in my tool belt. If I am unable to keep buying a cheap pig each fall, I may be forced to grow my own, and that is not the time to stretch the learning curve. When life is stable and good, that’s the time to expand.

When I am adding something new to our homestead, I research. I do not trust all websites, but I like Joel Salatin’s which I know has accurate information. I start trolling, looking for how-tos on pigs. I also invest in books. I find the accuracy of some online sources questionable. When you write a book for publication, you are more compelled to check your sources. I look for books from the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s; taking into account more recent information on harmful pesticides. The older books often have great tried and true ways to run a homestead including how to raise a pig.

I will also find the best hog raiser in my area who uses natural techniques and ask them for their best tips on pigs. My Uncle Mike is a character! He used to have a hog production facility, and I asked him for his advice. Uncle Mike told me the correct direction to set my hog house that would protect them from inclement weather and to never put them on concrete. He also told me to forget it and buy a pig! No one is encouraging, but I am pressing on.

I am researching what the best breed for this region is based, in part, on our weather conditions. I will get on Craigslist and look for prices in a two-state area to see if it might be worth traveling for the best buy. I usually do not start with expensive pedigreed stock. I want to have at least one season of what I call “cutting my teeth” as I will make mistakes as I learn how to care for the new addition to our farm. One thing is for sure, the fencing must be hog tight, and all my fencing needs are met at my Buchheit store.

I am excited about pigs! Any suggestions? Hope all is well! Anne May