Am I Ready to Adopt a Pet?

There’s so much to love about pets. The bonds people form with animals are completely unique from those we form with one another. Pets can be part parent, sibling, child, and friend. They can lighten up our days and force us off the couch, encourage us to play and cuddle up with us to sleep.

But pets also introduce a lot of new responsibilities into our lives. That’s why one of the most important things adopters can do is make sure they’re up to the task and capable of providing the care, resources, and environment necessary to give their pet a great life. In this article, we’ll cover exactly that, focusing primarily on the most common pets — dogs and cats.

How Often Will the Pet Be Alone?

Given your current life circumstances, will your pet be left home alone for long hours on most days? Is it possible to come home on lunch breaks for social time and a quick walk? If not, then your pet may spend most of their time alone, anxious, and waiting for you. If, on the other hand, you have flexible hours and can give your pet plenty of face-to-face time and exercise, then you’re in great shape to get a pet.

Do You Have to or Want to Travel Frequently?

Going on a vacation every now and again shouldn’t be an issue, but if you have to travel regularly for work or if you just want to get out and see the world, then a pet could be a significant hurdle. Airplanes and pets are never a good mix, and finding hotel rooms that are pet friendly can also be tough. Often, you’ll end up finding other people who can look after your pet when you’re gone. Is this a cost or inconvenience that you can handle?

Are You Renting?

If you’re renting, then it’s important to get a pet that won’t be restricted on most leases. So-called “aggressive” dog breeds are sometimes surprising, including huskies, German shepherds, Dobermans, Chihuahuas, and more. Cat restrictions can also be unexpected. Will your pet make it difficult for you to find a place to live? Look at current rental properties and see the breeds you should avoid.

Are You Ready to Raise a Pet?

Whether you adopt a young or old pet, you’re responsible for taking them to get regular checkups, paying for preventative and prescriptive health interventions, and training them to ensure that they lead happy, well-adjusted lives. A puppy might be cute, but if you work full-time and live alone in an apartment, the mess of house training and behavioral training might burn you out after a long shift! 

Are You Considering or Have Children?

Kids and pets can be a wonderful duo, but it’s important to get the timing right. If you’re adopting a pet while your kid is still a baby or toddler, then even the sweetest dog or cat may snap at children who don’t yet understand how to interact with animals. Do you think kids are in the near future? Maybe hold off on adopting young pets until things are clearer. In the meantime, there are plenty of older pets who would love to come home with you for their final years.

Wait, is Anyone Ready to Adopt a Pet!?

I know, this is a lot to consider. But realistically, adopting pets is almost always a leap of faith. The ideal household isn’t always attainable in the modern world, but even full-time working pet parents can make it work if they really want to. What matters most is that you’re ready to dedicate time, love, and resources to a new family member. It won’t always be easy, but it will always be worth it.

As pet lovers already know, pets give us far more than we ever really realize — from a hug after a trip to the park to cuddling up on our feet during movie night. If you’re worried about being the best pet parent you can be, then you’re already on the right track.

Help a Pet, Help Yourself

Pets are remarkable at keeping us healthy — they get us off the couch, give us plenty of love, and bring us so much joy. If you’re an animal lover, you may benefit from an emotional support

Am I Ready to Adopt a Pet?

There’s so much to love about pets. The bonds people form with animals are completely unique from those we form with one another. Pets can be part parent, sibling, child, and friend. They can lighten up our days and force us off the couch, encourage us to play and cuddle up with us to sleep.

But pets also introduce a lot of new responsibilities into our lives. That’s why one of the most important things adopters can do is make sure they’re up to the task and capable of providing the care, resources, and environment necessary to give their pet a great life. In this article, we’ll cover exactly that, focusing primarily on the most common pets — dogs and cats.

How Often Will the Pet Be Alone?

Given your current life circumstances, will your pet be left home alone for long hours on most days? Is it possible to come home on lunch breaks for social time and a quick walk? If not, then your pet may spend most of their time alone, anxious, and waiting for you. If, on the other hand, you have flexible hours and can give your pet plenty of face-to-face time and exercise, then you’re in great shape to get a pet.

Do You Have to or Want to Travel Frequently?

Going on a vacation every now and again shouldn’t be an issue, but if you have to travel regularly for work or if you just want to get out and see the world, then a pet could be a significant hurdle. Airplanes and pets are never a good mix, and finding hotel rooms that are pet friendly can also be tough. Often, you’ll end up finding other people who can look after your pet when you’re gone. Is this a cost or inconvenience that you can handle?

Are You Renting?

If you’re renting, then it’s important to get a pet that won’t be restricted on most leases. So-called “aggressive” dog breeds are sometimes surprising, including huskies, German shepherds, Dobermans, Chihuahuas, and more. Cat restrictions can also be unexpected. Will your pet make it difficult for you to find a place to live? Look at current rental properties and see the breeds you should avoid.

Are You Ready to Raise a Pet?

Whether you adopt a young or old pet, you’re responsible for taking them to get regular checkups, paying for preventative and prescriptive health interventions, and training them to ensure that they lead happy, well-adjusted lives. A puppy might be cute, but if you work full-time and live alone in an apartment, the mess of house training and behavioral training might burn you out after a long shift! 

Are You Considering or Have Children?

Kids and pets can be a wonderful duo, but it’s important to get the timing right. If you’re adopting a pet while your kid is still a baby or toddler, then even the sweetest dog or cat may snap at children who don’t yet understand how to interact with animals. Do you think kids are in the near future? Maybe hold off on adopting young pets until things are clearer. In the meantime, there are plenty of older pets who would love to come home with you for their final years.

Wait, is Anyone Ready to Adopt a Pet!?

I know, this is a lot to consider. But realistically, adopting pets is almost always a leap of faith. The ideal household isn’t always attainable in the modern world, but even full-time working pet parents can make it work if they really want to. What matters most is that you’re ready to dedicate time, love, and resources to a new family member. It won’t always be easy, but it will always be worth it.

As pet lovers already know, pets give us far more than we ever really realize — from a hug after a trip to the park to cuddling up on our feet during movie night. If you’re worried about being the best pet parent you can be, then you’re already on the right track.

Help a Pet, Help Yourself

Pets are remarkable at keeping us healthy — they get us off the couch, give us plenty of love, and bring us so much joy. If you’re an animal lover, you may benefit from an emotional support animal or exploring animal-assisted therapy. I’d be happy to give you more information. Feel free to read more here or contact me!

What Makes Therapy Dogs So Special?

The normalization of therapy has been one of the most exciting trends in wellness over the past few years. Suddenly, people who aren’t experiencing severe emotional distress are seeking out therapists to help them explore the everyday challenges of life. The rise in popularity of animal-assisted therapy is a wonderful evolution in this trend.

Now, pet lovers who may feel more comfortable with a furry companion by their side can talk through their emotions, manage their anxieties or depression, and deal with the fallout of emotional and physical trauma with the guidance of a therapist and a carefully-trained dog. Interested in learning more? Here’s everything you need to know! 

Are Service Animals Therapy Dogs?

You’ve probably seen dogs in special vests helping people throughout their day. It’s a common misconception to call these helpful pets “therapy dogs” because they’re actually service animals. Both types of pets improve people’s lives, but their training, functions, certificates, and privileges differ.

So, what’s the difference? A service dog is rigorously trained to help someone with an emotional or physical disability. For instance, if you see a dog in a vest helping a visually impaired man walk in a park, that’s a service animal. That dog’s job is no joke — it isn’t just a well-trained pet but a certified service animal with special access privileges in public spaces.

A therapy dog doesn’t have those special access privileges, isn’t certified to be a service animal, and cannot go into locations where service animals are legally allowed. Instead, therapy dogs serve another very important purpose: they make people happier. Let’s take a look at how they do it.

What Do Therapy Dogs Do?

While service dogs help people overcome physical or emotional disabilities, therapy dogs are “comfort animals” who are on a mission to make you feel calm, happy, and unconditionally loved. You may have also heard the term “emotional support animal” — that’s a therapy dog!

In most cases, a therapist or social worker include an animal-assisted therapy option to provide some light-heartedness and comfort while you work through life’s challenges and successes. Institutions like universities may even have comfort dogs with “pet me” signs on their backs who help cheer up students while they study or walk to class. Likewise, some elementary schools team up with therapy dog groups to let the children enjoy and express themselves around these well-trained pets.

But that doesn’t mean adults can’t benefit from therapy dogs too. They’ve proven to be very helpful for people prone to intense bouts of anxiety, panic, or depression, but also for people who just need some social support in their life. As such, therapy dogs are often suggested to help people regulate their emotions during trauma, medical issues, loneliness, overwhelming situations, PTSD, or any other high-stress or just daily conditions.

How Can I Find a Therapy Dog?

Animal-assisted therapy options abound! You’d be surprised to learn just how many options may be available to you locally. I’d suggest beginning your search with respected directories, such as the American Kennel Club’s AKC-Recognized Therapy Dog Organizations. Or, simply type into your search engine of choice your location followed by “animal-assisted therapy.”

It bears mentioning that therapy animals don’t have to just be dogs! Other social pets like cats, guinea pigs, horses, birds, and even dolphins have had a positive impact on people. There was even one shocking finding from UCLA researchers that found dolphin therapy was more effective against depression than medication. Feel free to explore whichever sides of animal-assisted therapy speak to you most!

Help a Pet, Help Yourself

Pets are remarkable at keeping us healthy — they get us off the couch, give us plenty of love, and bring us so much joy. If you’re an animal lover, you may benefit from an emotional support animal or exploring animal-assisted therapy. I’d be happy to give you more information. Feel free to read more here or contact me!

What are the Best Pets for Small Apartments?

Landlords and leases can become the bane of a pet lover’s existence, but just because your apartment rules out big-breed dogs and maybe even cats doesn’t mean you can’t bring a pet home. In this article, we’re going to look at a few pets who can thrive in smaller, stricter apartments so you can find the companion that’s right for you. Let’s get started!

Some Dogs

Often the most-desired and the least welcome pets in apartments are dogs — especially big ones. Whether it’s a fear that big dogs will scratch up the floors and walls or that irresponsible owners won’t let their pets out in time, getting a dog into an apartment can be an uphill battle.

Typically, so-called “aggressive” breeds are not allowed, often including pit bulls, Rottweilers, Akitas, German shepherds, and so on. The other factor is weight. Even rowdy small dogs tend to be pretty harmless and won’t scratch up surfaces like a 70-pound husky would. Puppies, of course, are quite messy and are often not allowed.

So, what does that leave you with? Small- to medium-sized dogs that aren’t included on aggressive breed lists and aren’t puppies. This might include pugs, bulldogs, beagles, Yorkshire terriers, and a well-trained retriever or lab! Take your apartment’s restricted breed list to a pet rescue and see if you can brighten up a dog’s life.

Most Cats

Cats are an ideal pet for small spaces — primarily because the space isn’t all that small to them. They’ll find nooks to explore, structures to climb, and plenty of fun things to play with and chase. But that doesn’t mean all cats will be a good fit for a small apartment.

Some cat breeds are more amenable to small, quiet spaces than others. For instance, there are some very vocal cat breeds like the Siamese which will howl if you’re gone too long. Then there are bigger and more energetic cats like the Bengal, which need more stimulation to be happy.

Check if there are any breed restrictions for cats in your lease as well as if there are stipulations about being spayed or neutered. Also, remember that your cat needs things to do while you’re away! Window perches, climbing towers, scratching posts, and toys can really help brighten their day.

Gerbils and Guinea Pigs

Much lower maintenance than cats and dogs, gerbils and guinea pigs are great companions in small spaces! As for gerbils, it’s important to know that these social pets need to have a friend, so adopt in pairs. They’re playful, cute, and more amenable to being picked up than hamsters. To avoid having a lot of gerbil babies, it’s best to adopt two males or two females. While they’re known for being a bit messy, it’s nothing a regular cage cleaning can’t take care of! 

Guinea Pigs are a similar story. They’re also social are are happiest with a same-sex friend to hang out with. However, they need vertical cages with a few floors rather than horizontal cages. With a big enclosure and lots of snacks and toys, gerbils will be very happy and very cuddly small-apartment pets! 

Rabbits

You’ll want to look closely at your lease for this one, but for the most part, if an apartment complex allows big dogs, they’re likely to make an exception for a rabbit too. If it isn’t listed specifically, just send an email or ask the leasing office to make sure! After all, rabbits are wonderful little social pets that you can really form a bond with.

But there are unique considerations for rabbits. First off, some rabbit breeds can be housetrained with a litter box and hop around the apartment freely. But since they’re natural chewers, you absolutely must ensure that all wires are bunny-proofed. That means covered, picked up, and definitely unplugged. Otherwise, your rabbit will chew through them and possibly get electrocuted.

Fish and Reptiles

While you’ll want to check in with your leasing office to see if more unique pets like large-tank fish and reptiles are allowed, these are, for the right owners, ideal small apartment pets. Reptiles are happy sunbathing and hunting in their tanks, and fish are famously low maintenance so long as their water temperature, quality, and food needs are met.

That said, there’s a big difference between a python and a leopard gecko. Smaller reptiles that flourish in small to medium tanks will probably be best for a studio apartment. If you work long hours, many reptile and fish owners are glad to know that separation anxiety isn’t as much of an issue as it would be with cats or dogs. If you’re the type of person who loves these scaly, unique pets, then there are plenty of options to bring them into your studio apartment!

Help a Pet, Help Yourself

Pets are remarkable at keeping us healthy — they get us off the couch, give us plenty of love, and bring us so much joy. If you’re an animal lover, you may benefit from an emotional support animal or exploring animal-assisted therapy. I’d be happy to give you more information. Feel free to read more here or contact me!

A Comprehensive Guide to Pet Cats

Cats are just as complicated and unique as you are, and if you look around enough, you’ll find the perfect little companion for your personality and lifestyle. While cats aren’t quite as social or needy as dogs, they still love to socialize and spend time with their owners! Here’s what you need to know to give your first cat a great home and a great life.

Am I the Right Fit for a Cat?

If you’re asking this question, then you’re already ahead of the game. Bringing a living, social animal into your home is no small thing, and changing your mind after adopting a pet can be really hurtful for them. If you love animals, get along well with cats, and want to give your pet the best life possible, then you’re absolutely the right fit to be a pet parent!

As far as adopting pets goes, cats tend to fit better into the modern busy workweek than other pets. They’re low maintenance, appreciate some alone time, and are very independent. And when you get home, they’re happy to curl up with you, play some games, or get some fresh air with you.

What about going on vacations and long getaways? Cats might be a lot more independent than dogs, but they still need someone to check in on them and refresh their food and water. (Lonely cats also tend to wander off in search of company!) All that to say, your cat still depends on you. 

What Do Cats Need?

Cats flourish in loving homes with constant access to a warm interior and the outdoors. Naturally, cats love to hunt and prowl around outside. This adds an immense variety to their lives and keeps them healthy and happy. Likewise, they love to have meaningful relationships with people — even if that’s from a bit of a distance, depending on the cat! 

Cats tend to get along with children well, but it’s important that parents teach their kids not to crowd, push, or pull on their pets. This can be very distressing for a cat and erode their trust in the people around them. 

As for their diets, cats are meat lovers! Like most pets, the unfortunate norm is to serve them bland kibble with an impossibly long shelflife. But canned cat food is a bit fresher and a lot tastier, and freshly cooked meats like beef, chicken, and turkey are a good way to put your cat on cloud nine! A mix between prepared cat foods and some fresh meats to snack on from time to time will give them a well-rounded, delicious diet.

What’s the Deal with Cat Breeds?

There are plenty of different types of cats, and their breeds have some influence on their personalities, likes, and dislikes. But overall, most adopted cats are “moggies,” which are domestic mixes of a bunch of cats, like “mutts” in dogs. It’s best to meet a cat and see how you get along, educate yourself on their breed makeup to provide them with a suitable lifestyle, and adopt any cat that need a home!

One of the most obvious day-to-day differences in types of cats is long-haired or short-haired. If you don’t want to vacuum all the time, then long-haired cats might be a bit much. But short-haired cats shed too. On that note, all cats like to sharpen their claws, so make sure you get a scratching post and accept that sometimes they’ll use your nice furniture!

As for age, kittens might be cute, but that’s no reason to adopt a cat. Keep in mind that you’re taking care of an animal for around fourteen years — and they’ll only be kittens for a few months. There are plenty of adult cats who really need homes too, but any kitten or cat would be happy to befriend you!

Help a Cat, Help Yourself

Pets are remarkable at keeping us healthy — they get us off the couch, give us plenty of love, and bring us so much joy. If you’re an animal lover, you may benefit from an emotional support animal or exploring animal-assisted therapy. I’d be happy to give you more information. Feel free to read more here or contact me!

What are the Best Pets for Small Apartments?

Landlords and leases can become the bane of a pet lover’s existence, but just because your apartment rules out big-breed dogs and maybe even cats doesn’t mean you can’t bring a pet home. In this article, we’re going to look at a few pets who can thrive in smaller, stricter apartments so you can find the companion that’s right for you. Let’s get started!

Some Dogs

Often the most-desired and the least welcome pets in apartments are dogs — especially big ones. Whether it’s a fear that big dogs will scratch up the floors and walls or that irresponsible owners won’t let their pets out in time, getting a dog into an apartment can be an uphill battle.

Typically, so-called “aggressive” breeds are not allowed, often including pit bulls, Rottweilers, Akitas, German shepherds, and so on. The other factor is weight. Even rowdy small dogs tend to be pretty harmless and won’t scratch up surfaces like a 70-pound husky would. Puppies, of course, are quite messy and are often not allowed.

So, what does that leave you with? Small- to medium-sized dogs that aren’t included on aggressive breed lists and aren’t puppies. This might include pugs, bulldogs, beagles, Yorkshire terriers, and a well-trained retriever or lab! Take your apartment’s restricted breed list to a pet rescue and see if you can brighten up a dog’s life.

Most Cats

Cats are an ideal pet for small spaces — primarily because the space isn’t all that small to them. They’ll find nooks to explore, structures to climb, and plenty of fun things to play with and chase. But that doesn’t mean all cats will be a good fit for a small apartment.

Some cat breeds are more amenable to small, quiet spaces than others. For instance, there are some very vocal cat breeds like the Siamese which will howl if you’re gone too long. Then there are bigger and more energetic cats like the Bengal, which need more stimulation to be happy.

Check if there are any breed restrictions for cats in your lease as well as if there are stipulations about being spayed or neutered. Also, remember that your cat needs things to do while you’re away! Window perches, climbing towers, scratching posts, and toys can really help brighten their day.

Gerbils and Guinea Pigs

Much lower maintenance than cats and dogs, gerbils and guinea pigs are great companions in small spaces! As for gerbils, it’s important to know that these social pets need to have a friend, so adopt in pairs. They’re playful, cute, and more amenable to being picked up than hamsters. To avoid having a lot of gerbil babies, it’s best to adopt two males or two females. While they’re known for being a bit messy, it’s nothing a regular cage cleaning can’t take care of! 

Guinea Pigs are a similar story. They’re also social are are happiest with a same-sex friend to hang out with. However, they need vertical cages with a few floors rather than horizontal cages. With a big enclosure and lots of snacks and toys, gerbils will be very happy and very cuddly small-apartment pets! 

Rabbits

You’ll want to look closely at your lease for this one, but for the most part, if an apartment complex allows big dogs, they’re likely to make an exception for a rabbit too. If it isn’t listed specifically, just send an email or ask the leasing office to make sure! After all, rabbits are wonderful little social pets that you can really form a bond with.

But there are unique considerations for rabbits. First off, some rabbit breeds can be housetrained with a litter box and hop around the apartment freely. But since they’re natural chewers, you absolutely must ensure that all wires are bunny-proofed. That means covered, picked up, and definitely unplugged. Otherwise, your rabbit will chew through them and possibly get electrocuted.

Fish and Reptiles

While you’ll want to check in with your leasing office to see if more unique pets like large-tank fish and reptiles are allowed, these are, for the right owners, ideal small apartment pets. Reptiles are happy sunbathing and hunting in their tanks, and fish are famously low maintenance so long as their water temperature, quality, and food needs are met.

That said, there’s a big difference between a python and a leopard gecko. Smaller reptiles that flourish in small to medium tanks will probably be best for a studio apartment. If you work long hours, many reptile and fish owners are glad to know that separation anxiety isn’t as much of an issue as it would be with cats or dogs. If you’re the type of person who loves these scaly, unique pets, then there are plenty of options to bring them into your studio apartment!

Help a Pet, Help Yourself

Pets are remarkable at keeping us healthy — they get us off the couch, give us plenty of love, and bring us so much joy. If you’re an animal lover, you may benefit from an emotional support animal or exploring animal-assisted therapy. I’d be happy to give you more information. Feel free to read more here or contact me!

What are the Best Reptiles for Pets?

It takes a special kind of person to love a special kind of pet — that’s why our bonds with reptiles are so strong. These scaly, spiky, and shelled pets make for great companions. But just like dogs and cats, some types of reptiles are better suited for types of people and homes. In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the best pet reptiles out there!

1. Turtles: Low Maintenance, Long Lifespan

Turtles are known for their incredibly long lifespans, but what’s less well-known is just how unique each turtle breed is. Some, like the red-eared slider, are friendlier and more energetic than other species — but they are quite messy. Sliders also need pretty large tanks to accommodate their size, and they can live to around 20 years old. 

Other types of turtles, like the eastern box turtle, are much more shy and require a gentler and more patient owner to bring out their unique personalities. Their tanks tend to be a bit smaller due to their smaller size, but some owners find themselves intimidated by their nearly 50-year lifespan.

Overall, there’s a type of turtle to fit just about any personality, but prospective turtle owners need to be ready to shell out money for a species-specific enclosure, healthy food and accessories, and a decades-long commitment. 

2. Lizards: Kid-Friendly, Short Lifespan

Lizards are classic reptilian pets, and because they’re so widely available and easy to care for, they make for great first pets. Let’s start with the anole, a slender eight-inch lizard that loves to relax and munch on crickets and worms all day. With a five-year lifespan and relatively simple needs, it’s great for kids and reptile owners short on time! 

Another great pick for kids is the leopard gecko, which is about double the size of anoles but equally docile and low-maintenance. These spotted little guys love to climb, hunt crickets, and sunbathe.

If you’re looking for a bigger and more sociable lizard, there’s always the bearded dragon! Don’t let their size fool you — though they can grow to around 24 inches long, they’re truly gentle giants and are always interested in climbing up your arm. Just make sure you’re ready to take care of them for their full 10-year lifespan!

3. Snakes: Docile, Moderate Lifespan

While snakes are more often feared than loved, reptile aficionados know they’re some of the best companions out there! Snakes have a moderate lifespan, between 15 and 35 years, depending on the species. As with any reptile, there’s an incredible variety of snakes, each with its own behavioral patterns and dietary needs.

Let’s start on the smaller side with corn snakes. These sleek, colorful snakes love to climb and burrow — and they’ll happily wrap around your hand and arm for some social time. Corn snakes are gentle, love to hunt, and don’t require tanks quite as big as other snakes.

As for the big guys, the ball python is also a great beginner snake — just make sure you have room for a 40-gallon tank and the fortitude to handle a 5-foot reptile! Ball pythons are beautiful and docile, and when they get comfortable with their owners, they’re even quite friendly.

Help a Reptile, Help Yourself

Pets are remarkable at keeping us healthy — they get us off the couch, give us plenty of love, and bring us so much joy. If you’re an animal lover, you may benefit from an emotional support animal or exploring animal-assisted therapy. I’d be happy to give you more information. Feel free to read more here or contact me!

Your Guide to Pet Mini Pigs

You’ve probably seen the mini-pig craze on social media — as more people recognize the social and emotional intelligence of these so-called micro or teacup pigs, people have been bringing them into their homes as companions. While this is better than farming them for their meat, it’s important that these mini pigs find long-term and loving homes that won’t go away when the trend fades. After all, mini pigs aren’t just cute: they also have the capacity for love and companionship. Here’s what you should know before you look into getting your own mini pig!

1. Mini Pigs Are More Like Dogs than You Think.

Did you know mini pigs can learn their own names and understand commands? They’re smart social creatures — with a lot of heart. They flourish in loving households and seek out comfort from their companions. In fact, pigs are often ranked among the smartest animals on earth, just behind dolphins and chimpanzees.

When bringing a mini pig home, make sure you’re up to the task of raising a smart, socially intelligent animal that will rely on you for its health and happiness. Mini pigs can live up to 18 years, after all! (And yes, mini pigs can be potty-trained!)

2. But They Aren’t for Everyone!

So, as far as emotional and general intelligence goes, pigs are much closer to dogs than most people realize. But that doesn’t mean they’re as simple to take care of as dogs! Farm animals, which mini pigs are widely classified under, aren’t legal everywhere — so check on your local laws.

Also, remember that mini pigs live up to 18 years and aren’t all that mini — at their full size, they can weigh as much as 150 pounds. They need a lot of open space to explore, a lot of face-to-face play time and love, and a lot of socialization. These aren’t the sorts of pets you can leave at home unattended for long periods of time! They’ll miss you too much.

3. I’m Up For the Responsibility!

Great! As long as you can provide the unique level of care and environment that mini pigs need to live long and happy lives, you’re improving your future pet’s life! Unfortunately, since mini pigs have become a trend on social media, many people who aren’t quite animal lovers have adopted, neglected, and abandoned mini pigs to improve their own feeds. Thanks for giving those lovable animals a second chance at happiness!

4. Do Not Ever Support Pig Mills.

If you’re interested in adopting a mini pig as a companion, then it’s clear that you have a lot of love in your heart for animals. That’s why you absolutely must do your research on where you’re buying your mini pig.

So-called pig mills are more common than you think, and they force their “inventory” to live in horrible conditions. Make sure you’re getting your mini pig from a shelter or sanctuary that you check out in person and online. They can provide you with all the medical records and paperwork you need.

5. Making a Happy Mini Pig Home

If you live in a mild environment, then your mini pig can live outside, inside, or both. They eat vegetables and fruits, but to make sure they’re getting all of their nutrients, their biggest meal should be top-shelf pig pellets. Just like dogs, your pig will have different dietary needs at different ages, so make sure you’re talking to a veterinarian with mini-pig experience. 

As for your mini pig’s home, it’s important that they have lots of room to roam — so if you have a big fenced-in backyard, a big house, or (preferably) both, then you’re off to a great start. The outdoor pig shelter should have a roof and cool shade with fresh hay lining the floors, while the indoor crate should have cozy blankets and perhaps an enclosed area, so your pet can walk around a bit at night before getting free rein in the daytime!

Help a Pig, Help Yourself

Pets are remarkable at keeping us healthy — they get us off the couch, give us plenty of love, and bring us so much joy. If you’re an animal lover, you may benefit from an emotional support animal or exploring animal-assisted therapy. I’d be happy to give you more information. Feel free to read more here or contact me!