Cruel and Ineffective
Nose rings have been used for many years by a small number of hog farmers to control the pigs in their care. The theory is that a metal ring piercing through the most sensitive part of a pig’s body, the snout, will reduce rooting, damage to landscaping, and lessen escape attempts. The problem is these rings are both cruel and ineffective, being classified as inhumane and detrimental to the welfare of pigs by Animal Welfare Approved.
A pig’s nature drives them to root and explore with their snout. Pigs root for a variety of reasons. They use their snout to search for food, to dig down the cool moist dirt on a hot day, for comfort, for the sheer fun of it, and due to boredom. Pigs ingest essential minerals from the soil when they root, as well as finding other food sources. A pig’s health and welfare depend on their ability to root. Rooting is considered to be a behavioral need of pigs. If you have an issue with your pig’s rooting, there are several ways to manage this without hurting your pet.
Putting a ring in a pig’s nose will cause undeniable pain. Studies have proven pigs with ringed noses are more reluctant to eat due to the pain of the rings. They are less likely to nudge through their straw bedding or dig a wallow to lay in. Nose rings also present a risk of infection.
Sadly, a pig’s need to root is stronger than the pain that is caused. Pigs will continue to root, upsetting the lawn or escaping poor fencing once the wounds of the initial piercing heal. The pain is still great, affecting the quality of life and temperment of the pig. This compounds the problem of rooting with behavioral problems due to a painful, irritated, and frustrated pig.
According to the Animal Welfare Approved, “Scientists have established that the pig’s rooting disc has as many tactile organs as humans have on the palms of both hands (Adrian, 1943); it is very strong and very sensitive. Putting rings around the rim of the disk cause the pig more pain than inserting a ring into the septum…The scientific evidence is compelling. Ringing does not just affect the sow’s ability to root, but also its ability to nose in straw and dig out wallows. Ringed sows display behaviors that suggest a degree of reduced welfare.”
Please consider the quality of life of your pet pig before you decide to put a ring in their nose.
Alternatives to Using a Nose Ring
Managing pet pigs requires an individual approach. Not all pigs act or react the same. It’s important to evaluate the problems you are having with your pig to understand the root of that problem, and therefore a solution that works for you both.
Spay & Neuter
Spaying and neutering pet pigs is important. This simple preventative measure will help to keep your pigs contained. Intact pigs are driven by hormones to roam and find a mate. They will go to great lengths to break out of their pens using their extraordinarily strong snouts. Spaying and neutering your pet pig will help them to feel content in the space they are allowed.
Secure fencing is an important part of any pet pig’s home. The most common and secure fencing for pet pigs is cattle panels secured to T posts. These are relatively low cost and very strong. If a pig has a tendency to dig under the fence, the fence panels can be buried into the ground. Alternately, chicken wire can be buried forming a skirt inside the fence. If a pig digs or roots down into the dirt they will run into the hard wire and stop.
Healthy, High Fiber Diet
A healthy diet is essential for all pet pigs. Ensure your pig is getting an appropriate amount of feed. A high fiber diet will help your pig stay satisfied. A hungry pig will search for food at the expense of your lawn.
Enrichment & Companionship
A bored pig is a destructive pig. Give your pet plenty of exercise, enrichment, mental stimulation, training, and companionship. Learn more about mini pig enrichment here.
Shade and Water
Pigs will dig trenches to cool off or protect themselves from the sun. Some pigs prefer to dig their own trenches. Providing them plenty of shade to cool off and a kiddie pool will lessen the chances they will dig their own.
A muddy pig pen is an invitation to root. Plan your pig’s area to ensure good drainage without erosion.
Depending on your property, the number of pigs you have, and your pig’s behavior, you may want to give your pig access to your entire (fenced in) property, a smaller fenced in pen they can root up, or rotate pastures for your pigs. If there are areas, plants, or gardens that you do not want your pig getting into, securely fence these areas off from your mini pig.