Explore every episode of the podcast The Pet Pig Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Be a Good Leader: Preventing Spoiled Pig Syndrome | 04 Nov 2025 | 00:20:08 | |
https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group-copy
Welcome back to The Pet Pig Podcast! In this episode of a two-part series, Autumn dives into one of the most common challenges pig families face — Spoiled Pig Syndrome, or SPS. Don't let the name fool you — SPS isn't a hopeless situation or a sign that you've failed as a pig parent. It's a natural result of unclear boundaries and leadership, and the good news is that it's 100% preventable and fixable. Autumn explains how pigs view the world through hierarchy and body language, not words, and why stepping confidently into the leader role is the key to raising a respectful, relaxed, and happy pig. You'll learn the foundations of leadership, including: • Understanding pig hierarchy and how pigs communicate respect • How to use the "Move the Pig" technique to earn respect through calm, confident movement • What to do if your pig challenges your authority — without fear, anger, or yelling • Why making your pig "work for food" builds trust, patience, and self-control • How to stop the screaming habit by breaking the reward cycle This episode will help you understand your pig's behavior on a deeper level and give you the tools to build a strong, trusting relationship through leadership — not force. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| Can You Support Rescues AND Ethical Breeders? | 28 Oct 2025 | 00:16:38 | |
This week on The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn takes on one of the most emotional and misunderstood topics in the pig world: Can you support both rescues and ethical breeders? For many people, the words "breeder" and "rescue" feel like opposing sides of a battle, but Autumn makes the case that both are not only important—they are absolutely necessary for the future of pet pigs. In this heartfelt and informative episode, Autumn unpacks why breeders as a whole often carry such a negative reputation. She shares her frustration with the many bad breeders who mislead families with myths about "teacup" or "micro" pigs, starve piglets to keep them small, or breed irresponsibly without any regard for health, temperament, or quality of life. These unethical practices have fueled mistrust and left countless families heartbroken—and countless pigs surrendered to rescues. But Autumn also highlights the vital role ethical breeders play in protecting and preserving the future of mini pigs. Ethical breeders carefully select pairings with health, size consistency, and temperament in mind. They raise piglets with intention, provide proper weaning and care, require spay and neuter contracts, and offer lifetime support to families. With only a handful of registered breeders in the United States compared to hundreds of rescues, the balance is fragile—and without ethical breeders, the genetic line of mini pigs would quickly deteriorate. On the other side of the conversation, Autumn shines a light on rescues and the indispensable work they do. Rescues step in for pigs who have been abandoned, neglected, hoarded, or given up when families were misled about size or care needs. They provide medical care, spay and neuter surgeries, food, shelter, and love to pigs who otherwise might not survive. Yet rescues face overwhelming challenges too: financial strain, the high cost of pig feed and veterinary care, the need for strong fencing and enrichment, and in some cases, the heartbreaking reality of becoming overwhelmed or unable to provide proper care. What Autumn challenges listeners to see is that it doesn't have to be an either/or choice. Ethical breeders and ethical rescues are not enemies—they are allies. Breeders safeguard the future of the mini pig by raising healthy, well-adjusted piglets and educating families before adoption. Rescues protect the pigs who fall through the cracks, giving them a second chance at life. When both are supported, pigs win. If you've ever felt pressured to "pick a side" between adopting or buying from a breeder, this episode will encourage you to rethink that black-and-white perspective. It's not about choosing rescue or breeder—it's about supporting those who are doing right by pigs, no matter their role. By working together, rescues and ethical breeders can create a stronger, healthier, and more compassionate future for pigs everywhere. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| Rooting: The Instinct That Drives Your Pig | 26 Aug 2025 | 00:15:57 | |
In this episode of the Pet Pig Podcast, host Autumn takes a deep dive into one of the most frequent questions she receives from new pig owners: "Why does my pig root so much?" Rooting—whether in the dirt, on furniture, or on you—is one of the most recognizable and instinctual behaviors pigs display. But it's often misunderstood. Autumn breaks down the five main reasons pigs root: to search for food, to cool off and regulate their temperature, to build nests, to communicate and bond socially, and to explore their world for mental stimulation. She explains how this behavior is not only normal, but essential to a pig's well-being. Listeners will learn how rooting is tied to survival instincts, and how even pet pigs in loving homes will still feel the strong urge to root daily. Autumn also explores how early weaning can lead to compulsive rooting, especially on people, because piglets who miss out on rooting with their mother try to satisfy those unmet needs later in life—sometimes in ways that become frustrating or even painful for their human families. Rooting on people may start out as cute, but it can easily become uncomfortable or even aggressive as the pig grows. Autumn discusses how to redirect this behavior early on with safe alternatives like blankets, stuffed animals, digging boxes, puzzle feeders, and outdoor rooting areas. She shares tips on using thrifted materials to build up a pig's rooting "toolbox," rotating enrichment items to avoid boredom, and creating safe spaces that satisfy your pig's natural drive to dig, nudge, and nest. This episode is essential listening for anyone who has a pig, is considering getting one, or wants to better understand pig behavior. Rooting isn't a behavioral issue to "fix"—it's a message from your pig's instincts. When we listen to that message and meet our pigs where they are, we can create healthier, safer, and happier environments for them to thrive. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| What is Earthing and Why Does Our Pet Pig Need to Do it? with Clint Ober | 17 Mar 2023 | 00:54:14 | |
Clint grew up in Montana in a rural area. His job as a child was to watch their cows and make sure that they were healthy and separate the ones that may be sick, but to also make sure the grass wasn't too short and the weeds too high. Throughout his whole life he has always looked at things in a way to figure out what caused it to happen. He left that job when he was young and went into the communications industry and helped develop the cable television industry in the hills of Montana. In that industry he learned about electrical stability to deliver a clean picture to the residents. Even in this industry he learned that everything had to be grounded in order to have electrical stability. He spent about 30 years in that industry. When he turned 50 he retired from that industry and was living in Evergreen Colorado on a mountain. He ended up having a major health issue about that time and as he recovered from it he didn't want to go back to conventional work. He wanted to do something with more value. After this health issue he decided that he did not want to own anything so he gave everything away and bought a small RV and spent 4 years traveling around the US. He ended up in Sedona Arizona and spent 2 years there. While there he ended up thinking, " I wonder if there is a consequence to humans no longer being naturally grounded, connected to the earth?" He took a big interest in that and started to do a study by grounding himself outside and then walking in the house and seeing what electrical charges happened. He eventually moved to Ventura California and started to do research with a couple students to do more research on earthing and how it affects the body.
In this episode Clint discusses:
Clint's Links: Products: AUTUMN'S AFFILIATE LINK: https://www.earthing.com/?rfsn=7887686.51c0e9f&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=7887686.51c0e9f Youtube: Education: https://earthinginstitute.net/
Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Courses, Webninars, Guides, Consultations: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter:
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| Help! I Got a Piglet for Christmas! | 07 Mar 2023 | 00:25:53 | |
January and February every year I am bombarded with messages from people who need help with their new piglet or they need help rehoming their brand new piglet they just brought home a couple weeks ago. I do not suggest giving someone a piglet as a gift because the owner needs to be able to do research to know what they are getting into, to make an educated decision when it comes to getting a pig. The reason this is so frustrating for me is because there are so many pigs in rescues and sanctuaries that have been rehomed. Who is responsible for these piglets? The answer is simple. It's the breeder that is responsible. It is their responsibility to support the family and to take the piglet back and find them a new home. Unfortunately, there are very few ethical, excellent breeders out there when it comes to pigs. Look for a breeder or a rescue that is going to educate, support and provide resources for you. What are some complaints that I get those first 2 months of every year from new piglet owners? Explain why piglets have these behaviors and how and why to correct them.
Pigs are not an easy pet but if you put the time in and stick with it and can be consistent you will have the best pet you have ever had in your entire life.
Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter:
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| The History and Temperament of Kune Kune with Lindsay Dennis | 21 Feb 2023 | 01:04:43 | |
Aloha, my name is Lindsay Dennis. I'm married to my best friend Micah and we have two boys, Kona who is 11 and Kai who is 9. We live on the east side of the Big Island of Hawaii! We have a family ranch called Kaohe Corral where we raise cattle and Kunekune pigs. We also have horses, dogs, chickens and a donkey. We try to grow and raise a lot of our own food and be as self-sufficient as we can. We also live completely off grid, so we make all our power from the sun, heat our water from the sun, and collect rainwater for all our water sources! We're trying to raise our boys to develop farming and ranching skills that will help them to continue to be self-sufficient into adulthood. They're favorite part of it all, including mine, is the pig part! The day after Lindsay got engaged there was an ad in the newspaper for potbelly pigs so she asked her fiance if they could go see them. She fell in love instantly and asked if she could get the pig and her fiance said yes so they got Petunia. They had Petunia for 13 years and she was unlike any animal she had ever had. After Petunia passed away they learned a lot about what to do better next time and started to research and find another pig they could get for their farm. Lindsay first saw a Kunekune on a trip to New Zealand and fell in love with them. She decided then that some day she would get a Kunekune. But in Hawaii it is rare to find that breed. Four years ago she found an intact male Kunekune on Craigslist. They went and looked at him and she immediately fell in love with him so they got him and named him Milford. She later came across a woman on the island that had a herd of Kunekune pigs but had to move back to the mainland and asked if Lindsay would be willing to purchase her herd of Kunekune pigs so they all could stay together. They did purchase the herd and have had a few litters. Now they have 9 adult Kunekune pigs and litters of babies here and there. They sell their pigs as pets and for meat also because many people on the island are becoming homesteaders and prefer to grow their own meat.
Lindsey's Link: https://www.instagram.com/kaohe_corral/
Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| Beware Underaged Piglets! | 07 Feb 2023 | 00:29:48 | |
I am very passionate about this subject because I feel that if more people understood the problems with bringing home an underaged piglet, they wouldn't do it. So today we are going to talk about why breeders sell underaged piglets, why they are wrong, and how it sets families and pigs up for failure for the rest of that pig's life. So first, why do breeders sell underaged piglets? An underaged piglet is a piglet that should still be with its mother. In my opinion between 7- 8 weeks old is a good time to wean a piglet from its mother. Anything under 6 weeks old is technically an underage piglet.So why would a breeder sell an underage piglet?
What lie do these breeders use to sell their underage pigs? They say a hand raised or bottle fed piglet bonds better with the family. What facts come with an underage piglet?
What are some consequences of taking a piglet from its mother?
If you find a breeder that you like, check out their social media page to be able to see a timeline of proof of the piglet's age. If they don't have a social media account I tend to feel like that is a red flag. Everyone wants a pig that is going to stay tiny and I get that because they are adorable but chances are if they do stay tiny they will not be healthy and they will probably die young.
Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| Meet Dr. Breslin, A Pet Pig Specialist! | 17 Jan 2023 | 01:19:48 | |
Hi I am Dr. Bridget Breslin. I grew up in Westchester County, NY with my parents and three brothers. I made my way to the Midwest during undergrad where I attended Purdue University and obtained a degree in Animal Sciences. Following graduation, I made my way to Ohio for veterinary school at The Ohio State University. I recently graduated from there this past May with my Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. I am now currently working at Fulton Animal Hospital in Canal Fulton, Ohio where I have been blessed to bring on the service of seeing pet pigs. My love for pigs started around second grade where I decided that I wanted a pet pig ( I am not sure why). When my parents said no, I decided to protest to them by not eating pork. That trend continued into my adult years, but then on my first day of veterinary school my brother called me to tell me that he offered me to take his friend's 3 month old pot belly pig. That is when I got my pig, Penelope. She is 4 now and sassier than ever. I also have a dog Sophie who is sweet as can be and responds to all of Penelope's calls. I am so blessed to be apart of the veterinary medicine profession and hope that I can educate owners on having a pet pig as well as be able to offer excellent care to them.
Bridget's Link:
https://intagram.com/thepiggyclinic/ Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| Do Pet Pigs Need Time Outside? | 03 Jan 2023 | 00:19:00 | |
Do pet pigs need time outside? The short answer is yes. There is a myth that pigs can live in a basement or apartment their entire life and still be healthy. In this episode we will talk about why that is an absolute crime on a pig to lock them up inside. They absolutely need time outside. Why is it imperative for a pig's health to have time outside every day? The first thing a pig needs is sunlight to absorb certain minerals. Pigs need Vitamin D in order to be healthy. Sunlight through a window is not the same as sunlight outside. Pigs need to be in the dirt. When they eat that dirt they get small amounts of iron and pigs are naturally deficient in iron. Fresh air is also needed so they can take deep breaths to blow out toxins. They also need to feel the elements on their skin. They need to have outside time in their natural habitat every day so they can eat grass and do the things that a pig does. Another thing they get outside is exercise. If a pig is kept inside they don't get exercise so they become overweight and unhealthy compared to a pig that has outside time daily. Being outside on different terrains also allows their hooves to be filed down a bit naturally so they may not need their hooves trimmed as often. Being outside is good for their mental health as well. During extreme cold or hot weather days we need to keep our pig safe. Ideally four hours a day outside would be amazing but it is not always possible depending on where you live. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| How Can I have a Great Pig Experience? | 20 Dec 2022 | 00:45:08 | |
Brandie has a family that is full of animal lovers. She has always wanted land, and the farm setting with a variety of animals. Several years ago she came across a mini-pig breeder she had bought her pet Muscovy Ducks from. From that day on she began researching and learning about mini-pigs and the care and lifestyle involved in being a pig owner. Brandie has had Sadie for 2.5 years and she is by far the best pet she has ever owned. She says she could not imagine her family life the same without her. The first thing she did was research. She tried to find as much information as she possibly could about pet pigs before she even got Sadie Mae. She tells us about what life with Sadie is like and what has helped them to be successful pig owners. She also tells us what challenges she has faced with Sadie and what they do to make sure that Sadie always remembers her place in the family. Brandie's Link: https://www.instagram.com/namaswine_sadie/
Autumn's Links:Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| Pet Pigs and Their Kitchen Shenanigans | 06 Dec 2022 | 00:20:09 | |
We all know that pigs are intelligent but what you might not know is that pigs can learn a bad habit in one event. If you are in the kitchen preparing dinner and your piglet comes over and lightly roots on your leg, you bend down and give them a scratch on the head and then you make that one single mistake where you take a piece of the food you are preparing and give your pig a bite. What did you just teach your pig? You taught them that when you are standing at the counter preparing food that food actually belongs to the pig. So what does this mean for you? Pigs are driven by food so now they associate you standing at the counter with food as a gift to them. Every single time that you are standing at that counter you are nothing but a treat or food dispenser to them. So now they see you at the counter they know that if they come over and push that button on your leg they get food. Now if you don't move fast enough or understand what they are asking for things can escalate quickly. They become frantic for food. This frantic behavior can turn bossy and even aggressive. Then when anyone comes in the kitchen they will now start demanding food. How can we change this behavior if it is already pretty ingrained into our pig? First, we need to be realistic because this will take time. Pigs do not unlearn these bad habits overnight. So what do we need to do?
How do we prevent this behavior? NEVER feed your pig from the counter, your plate, the table, your bowl, the fridge or the couch. Anywhere that you eat food in your house, never share your food with your pig. This will prevent your pig from seeing you eat and thinking that means that they are going to eat also. Autumn's Links:
Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| How Pet Pigs Can Support our Mental Health with Sanghi | 15 Nov 2022 | 00:51:27 | |
Sanghi lives in the Bay Area, California with her husband and 2 mini pigs, named Poppy and Podrick. Poppy is 2.5 years old, and Podrick is 7 months old. Poppy arrived during a trying time in Sanghi's life, and Poppy has helped her overcome her depression and anxiety. Sanghi likes to share the joy Poppy and Podrick have brought her with the community. Aside from working as a respiratory therapist, Sanghi is also a yoga instructor and hosts an event called Yoga, Vino, & a Pig where she educates the community about mini pigs and yoga while raising money for local animal rescues. Sanghi did a lot of research before she got Poppy so they could make sure they did everything they needed to before they got her. She reached out to many people with pigs to talk to and also purchased books to educate herself. When they finally purchased Poppy in 2020 they had a hard time finding a direct flight from NY to CA so they would not have to do ground transportation to get Poppy to them. They eventually were able to find a flight to get Poppy out to them. When she first arrived she was very nervous and took a bit to adjust to her new surroundings. She has always been a cautious pig and is very particular. She is willing to do most anything for peanut butter. The biggest challenge to owning a pig is to realize that they are not a dog. They take time and since they learn very quickly you have to keep them busy and stimulated with activities and toys all the time. They decided to get a second pig because they wanted Poppy to have a companion because they are now expecting a baby. They are hoping that Poppy and Podrick become great friends before the baby is born so there is no competition to deal with having a new baby in the home. They have had Podrick since August so they are working on letting them bond and figure out their places in the home. She started to battle with depression and anxiety much worse in 2020 and after she got Poppy she noticed a positive change in her mood. Poppy is able to tell what mood she is in and is able to hop into her lap and cuddle her and comfort her. This led to her therapist writing a letter to officially make Poppy her emotional support animal. She wants to share with the world how great of a pet a pig really is. Sanghi thinks that honestly without Poppy's help she would not have been able to wean off of her medications. Eventually Sanghi became a yoga instructor and has included pigs into her yoga events. The reason she got so passionate about this project is because she wants to be able to share the joy that Poppy and Podrick have brought her, with everyone else. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: Sanghi's Links: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yogionapole/ https://www.instagram.com/poppy.the.piggy/
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| Why is Change the Answer to Fear? | 01 Nov 2022 | 00:19:59 | |
Pig's are creatures of habit. They are comforted when they know what is going to happen. Pigs can become very regimented in their schedule and really hate it when it changes at all. I think a schedule is important but you need to keep their world changing also. In this episode we will talk about why it's important to keep a pig's world changing and how to do it.
Pigs do not like change and new things because they are prey animals so they get stuck in their box. Different things are scary to a pig. If we teach our pig that new or different things are not scary, we are giving our pig a gift. We give them the ability to not be afraid of everything new. I have found that when they are young or are new in our home, and we expose them to changes in their daily life, then as they grow to adulthood they adapt to change and are not as afraid of new things. If you have a stagnant environment with your pig they tend to become entitled and bossy. If we can teach our pigs and keep them on a flexible routine we will be teaching them that change is not a scary thing.
How can we teach our pigs that change is safe? How can we put just enough change in their daily routine that it keeps them always guessing and excited? I have 2 ways that i use with my pigs.
The first way is by changing up their everyday items.
After I clean up their area I set it up differently very often for my young pigs. By doing this I am showing them that it is ok for things to be moved around. I even rotate my outdoor pigs in new areas often.
The second way that I teach my pigs that change is ok is by changing up something that they love and adore. I do not change their food but I change the way that they are fed often. Every morning that I feed Topanga I change the way that I give her food to keep her use to change. Below are some examples of how I feed her.
By changing how my pigs eat their meals I keep them excited about change. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| Joanna on the Joys (and Challenges) of Raising Rosey | 19 Aug 2025 | 00:37:43 | |
Instagram: pig_ture_perfect_rosey http://www.tiktok.com/@pig_ture_perfect_rosey
My name is Joanna and I am married to my husband, Nathaniel. We live 10 minutes north of Boston,MA. We have one dog, one pig and two cats. When we first got Rosey (when she was 8 weeks old) we had 2 dogs and one cat, but sadly one of our dogs passed away last November. What happens when your spouse surprises you with a pig — without warning, without research, and without any idea what comes next? For Joanna, that unexpected day marked the beginning of a two-year journey with Rosey, a spirited, affectionate, and occasionally bossy pet pig. In this episode, Joanna shares the ups and downs of learning pig care on the fly: from diet and enrichment challenges to navigating pig moods and managing behavior changes. Highlights: • How Joanna's husband brought home a piglet without telling her • Adjusting expectations from "dog-like" to "pig-realistic" • Harness and ramp training a pig from a young age • Managing behavior changes and avoiding "good cop, bad cop" dynamics • Why cats can make great pig companions • Rosey's list of tricks — including painting!
Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| How Did Jessie Handle and Help an Aggressive Pig? | 18 Oct 2022 | 00:23:43 | |
In this episode we talk to Jessie about how she handled an aggressive pig. Jessie was not always a pig lover. Her daughter wanted a farm pig themed party and the day after the party Jessie's father brought home 2 baby pigs for her daughter. They were told that the female pig was spayed but 3 months later they had 4 baby pigs. They all were trampled except 1 so she hand raised the one that was left. She turned to Google and Facebook pages to learn how to raise a pig but found very misleading information. She didn't understand the pigs body language after she turned 1 and that's when Leila became aggressive to the point of biting. When she got bit that is when she became fearful of her. She reached out for help and got totally different answers from so many different people and started to consider rehoming Leila because she didn't know what else to do. She decided to get on YouTube and found my channel and reached out for help. After about 1 year of working with Leila and learning her body language she is doing much better and is not charging at Jessie or biting anymore. She tells us the tactics she used to train Leila to not be so aggressive. Jessie decided to get another pig Harley, so Leila wasn't lonely from needing to be separated due to her behaviors. Harley was about 1 year old when he came home, and he quickly became the top hog and has put Leila in her place and that has changed her personality for the better. Harley was a piglet from Autumn Acres and has found an amazing fit in Jessies home. The two pigs are polar opposites but they each are so loved. The thing Jessie loves most about Leila is that she is so lazy and loves to cuddle and Harley is the one that keeps everyone on their toes and loves to talk. Jessie's Link: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haines_familyy?_t=8VodRiZAdKM&_r=1 Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| What are Magic Words? | 04 Oct 2022 | 00:17:19 | |
One of the many techniques I use in training pigs is positive reinforcement. It works really well for pigs because they understand that if they do something that makes you happy, they will get a reward, so they will do it all the time for the reward. In our house we use "Magic Words". These words are a way that we teach our pigs positive reinforcement. It teaches them that obedience brings reward. The key is consistency. Pigs will only listen if they know that they will be rewarded for being obedient. They need motivation. Since they are prey animals, they naturally do not like to be forced to do something. While correction is sometimes needed, positive reinforcement is more fun for everyone and very successful. It works because pigs are just that smart. Magic words are a few words or phrases that we use, and our pigs know that if they hear those words and they do what we ask they will get a treat.
Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| Monique's Experience with a Pet Pig Named Pickles | 20 Sep 2022 | 00:54:58 | |
My name is Monique Sauceda and I am 38 years old. My husband, Carlos, and I have 2 girls, Natalia (12), and Ariella (19) and are from Stockton, CA. We have been together for 22 years and we are learning so much about pigs in just the last 3/4 months. I am currently in school for my master's in social work and work full time so it's definitely a family affair to keep up on household chores and Pickles. Getting Pickles in October 2020 was a family decision and we have definitely been learning as we're going. We have only ever owned cats and dogs and I have never lived on a farm or owned any kind of livestock animals, so we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. I came across your podcast when Nikki from Hold Onto Your Hooves came to trim Pickles' hooves. It has taught us how to better care for Pickles and how to better manage her "behaviors." It wasn't until your IG and podcast that I came across other pig pages that has only furthered our pig knowledge. We were riding blind for almost 18 months with Pickles until we really started to understand her. I look forward to sharing all that has happened since Pickles has come to our family. In this episode of the Pet Pig Podcast, we will be talking to Monique. Moniques love for pigs started as a child. When she was about 8 or 9 years old Moniques father took her to a pet store, every week for a couple months, so she could visit the pot belly pig there named Pudgy. Eventually Monique was able to get a pig. Her husband and daughter got her a pig in October of 2020. She had not done any research before owning a pig, so she had quite a bit to figure out once she got her pig Pickles. Monique tells us about how hard it was to figure out where to start researching because the information she received from her breeder was not accurate or truthful. They found some YouTube videos but those also did not give much information on how to care for Pickles. They had to figure out very quickly how to care for Pickles because they realized how little they were prepared for her. She tells us a few challenges they had with Pickles while they were learning how to care for her properly. Monique's Link: https://www.instagram.com/picklesthepiggi Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| Pet Pigs and Obesity | 06 Sep 2022 | 00:23:11 | |
There is a big misconception out there that a pig is only happy if they are fat. I feel so bad for overweight pigs because, just like people, when you are overweight you don't feel good and it is hard to move. I don't judge the owner because it is very easy for a pig to become overweight. Why is an overweight pet pig not a good thing? If you look at pigs on a farm that are meat pigs and notice that they are so big, its because they have fat for a reason. Those pigs serve a different purpose than a pet pig. A pet pig should be lean. A pig was designed with very short legs and those little legs have to hold up their body. If a pig is overweight it puts a lot of pressure on their legs and joints and feet. Over time it will lead to arthritis. It will cause walking to be very painful. Once it is painful to walk they will become more stationary. Having all that extra weight on their head and face can also lead to loss of eyesight and hearing. They can then become fearful with the loss of sight and hearing and that can lead to aggression. Something else that can happen is a loss of a quality of life. A healthy pig can live 15-18 years. But when you have an overweight pig and their quality of life is damaged it can cause premature death. What is an ideal weight for a pet pig?
What things cause excessive weight gain in a pig?
How do we know that our pig is getting enough food or too much food?
Autumns Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter:
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| Do Kune Kune Pigs Make Good Pets? | 16 Aug 2022 | 00:34:23 | |
Kasleigh and her husband have been married almost 12 years and we have four kids. They are a family of animal lovers. And that love has carried over into their home because they have a rotating door of rescues and rehabs and a couple special needs pets of their own. Kasleigh has wanted a pig since McDonald's put "Charlotte's Web" on VHS in its limited edition happy meal in 1993. Their first piglet Persimmon came home with them in December of 2020 and she felt wholly unprepared despite the intense amount of research she did. She stumbled across my page while doing lots of research and looking for help on how to care for their new pig and the rest is history. Now she is the happy pig parent of two piggies that she wouldn't trade for the world. Kasleigh tells us the story of how she ended up getting Persimmon and the lie she was told from the breeder about her size. She also tells us about why they decided to get a second pig and how they ended up with Fig and the challenges they have faced with her after rescuing her from a very bad situation. She explains some of the obstacles they overcame with training Fig to trust their family. She explains how their personalities have blossomed in the family and some of the things they love to do. We learn what it is like having a Kune in the house, with Persimmon being a larger pig, and what some of the biggest challenges have been with allowing them in the house. The way her family has been able to overcome some of the challenges they faced with their pigs, is by changing their own mindset. They know that the needs of their pigs and their personalities are not something that they can necessarily change. They focused on keeping things consistent and training them so the pigs could be happy and know where they stand in their pack. Kasleigh's Instagram Link: https://instagram.com/persimmon_and_fig
Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| Why do Pigs Squeal and How Should I Handle It? | 02 Aug 2022 | 00:17:56 | |
Everybody who has a pig knows that pigs squeal. We are going to discuss why they squeal and what we can do to teach them that squealing is not acceptable behavior. So let's talk about why pigs squeal.
So how can we fix this behavior when we have a pig that is just an excessive squealer?
Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| Clover's Pig Preserve | 19 Jul 2022 | 00:48:39 | |
In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, we talk with Cara about her nonprofit sanctuary Clover's Pig Preserve. We also discuss the difference between a sanctuary and a rescue. Clover's Pig Preserve was founded in 2020 when the world began to shut down due to the Coronavirus. Cara wanted to create a place where pigs could have a loving forever home, where they could root, play, and live with other pigs. Sanctuaries across the country are overflowing with pigs. This decision was largely supported by Co-Founder Christopher Cayer. The pigs have since been relocated to Wolcott, Connecticut to a 50-acre property called Pillwillop Therapeutic Farm. Cara and Chris reside together nearby. Together they are the sole caregivers to all the pigs in their care. Cara's Links: https://linktr.ee/Cloverspigpreserve?utm_source=linktree_profile_share Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter:
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| Does a Mini Pig Exist? | 05 Jul 2022 | 00:14:38 | |
What is a mini pig? There are many misconceptions about pig size. There are also those that say that a mini pig does not exist. So, what is the truth? Does a mini pig exist? What is a mini pig? How can you know if the pig you are bringing home is a mini pig? A mini pig is technically any pig under 300 pounds. There are breeds out there that are under 300 pounds, so a mini pig does exist. The problem is that a mini pig is not a breed. The term mini is a classification for pigs. The average size for a healthy mini pig is between 75-150 pounds. If you compare a dog that is 75 pounds to a pig that is 75 pounds, they look completely different. If you find a breeder that will guarantee that your pig will not get above 40 pounds, you have found someone who is either lying to you or they are feeding their pig miniscule amounts to keep them small. I am against underfeeding pigs just as much as I am against overfeeding them. How can you know that you are getting a mini pig from a reputable breeder?
Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter:
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| Gilbert the Party Pig | 21 Jun 2022 | 01:10:33 | |
Michelle lives in Connecticut with her husband and 2 children. They also have a 5-year-old Chiweenie named Minnie and a 2-year-old mini pig named Gilbert. They love taking walks as a family, where the pig and dog are included. They love their animals and like to spoil them. Michelle has the goal of one day starting her own sanctuary so that she can rescue any unwanted pigs and other farm animals. Michelle recently started taking Gilbert to schools, parties, centers for people with special needs and events. She said it's been such a wonderful experience educating people about pigs and sharing Gilbert with them. In this episode we talk all about Gilbert the Party Pig. Michelle's links: https://www.facebook.com/pigsarepetstoo https://galleries.page.link/ieQCL
Autumn's links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter:
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| Why are so many Pigs Rehomed? | 07 Jun 2022 | 00:17:53 | |
In this episode, Autumn discusses the reasons why so many pigs are rehomed. The number of pigs rehomed within their first year of life is pretty high. Why is this? Find out in this episode!
Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| Why Pigs Love Food: Appetite, Taste & the Gut-Brain Connection | 12 Aug 2025 | 00:15:56 | |
https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/free-body-condition-chart
In this episode of the Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn explores one of the most common (and misunderstood) pig behaviors: their obsession with food. If your pig begs constantly, roots endlessly, or always acts hungry—there's science behind it! You'll learn: • That pigs have 15,000–20,000 taste buds and how that makes food even more rewarding for them • How their gut-brain connection differs from ours, making them feel less full—even after eating • How food activates the pig brain's reward system and why begging often becomes a learned behavior • Why pigs are natural foragers and how feeding enrichment meets their biological and psychological needs • Practical tips for using treats strategically and making mealtimes more stimulating and less stressful Autumn also shares simple enrichment ideas, safe feeding tips, and how to avoid common mistakes like emotional or mindless treating. Whether you're raising a piglet or managing a full-grown pig's appetite, this episode will help you feed both body and brain. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs
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| Living with Pickles | 31 May 2022 | 00:59:00 | |
In this Episode of The Pet Pig Podcast we talk with Maddie Johnson. Maddie is an Emmy-winning producer and animal rescuer living in the San Francisco area with what she calls her "farm-ily"(her dogs, pigs, chickens, and a llama) alongside a constant rotation of foster animals. Maddie specializes in animal and rescue rehabilitation and uses her following to find these orphaned animals loving forever homes. She has managed to help save 100 animals last year which included puppies, kittens, dogs, lambs, piglets, bunnies, alpacas and even a baby cow. Maddie has appeared on Good Morning America, The Today Show, The Dodo, Animal Planet, and People Magazine to talk about her "farm-ily" and rescue work. She has raised over $100+ for various animal rescues. In discussing her mission, Maddie says, "My passion is creating tanimal-centric content that is genuine, wholesome, charming, uplifting, and often educational. I'm equally as passionate about using my large platform to connect people with animals or sanctuaries in need, fundraise on their behalf, and then track/celebrate the outcomes of those donations with our followers." By sharing their rescue transformations and silly animal antics, Maddie and her farm-ily hope to spread joy and foster a kind, caring community to their 100K+ followers. The following episode is meant for educational use only. If your pig gets a hold of and eats rat poison, please consult your vet as soon as possible for the best solution. Not every treatment is acceptable, available, or appropriate for every pig parent. Please work closely with your vet. Maddie grew up with animals and horses and got her love of animals and rescuing animals from her dad. She rescued Pickles as a very young piglet and has learned so much since getting him. The rescue of Pickles has turned into so much more and led to Maddie writing a book of Pickles story and has now made her farm-ily her full time job. She has grown her social media platform and that enabled her to do even more for animals in need. She loves to share her stories and let people take away the lesson they want from her stories. Help with our rescue work here: www.Patreon.com/livingwithpickles https://www.instargram.com/livingwithpickles/ http://facebook.com/livingwithpickles
Autumn's Links Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| What is it Like Having Three Pigs? | 17 May 2022 | 00:36:16 | |
Nicki is a wife, mother, pigrent to 3 pigs and business owner of Hold onto Your Hooves. Besides her husband and son, pigs consume her whole world, and she loves it. She first found her love of pigs in high school doing FFA. Autumn talks with Nicki about the process of what it was like when she got her first pig. She tells us the biggest challenges she has had with owning three pet pigs. Nicki shares her biggest challenges and how she was able to overcome them. She also gives advice for anyone who is thinking about having multiple pet pigs. Nicki's links: Hoof Trimmer: https://americanminipigassociation.com/uncategorized/sedation-free-mini-pig-hoof-trimmere-directory/ Nicki's email: holdontoyourhooves@gmail.com Nicki's Instagram: https://instagram.com/hold_onto_your_hooves Nicki's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holdontoyourhooves/ Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/
Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com
Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/
Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs
Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve
YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA
Newsletter:
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| Pros and Cons of Pet Pigs | 03 May 2022 | 00:14:04 | |
In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast Autumn will discuss the pros and cons of pet pigs. If you were to ask me what the best pet in the world is, i'm going to say a pig. I love pigs. But let's be real, a pet pig is not for everyone. They are so cute, and have great personalities but they can be a difficult pet. It is up to each individual to decide if a pig is a good pet for them or not. The only way we can make that decision is by knowing the facts. So let's talk about some of the facts of pigs.
Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/
Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com
Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/
Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs
Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve
YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA
Newsletter:
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| The Story of Olive Garden the Pig - Part 2 | 26 Apr 2022 | 00:54:46 | |
In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast we discuss, Why Zoning Laws Matter, with Anne. Anne lives in Long Beach, CA and is a radio DJ for a 90's show on 99.1 KLBP. She is a vegetarian and has been a passionate animal welfare advocate for many years. She also has a podcast named, "Off with Her Head History Podcast." She had an emotional support dog, Sophie, but she passed away after 11 years. She inherited Olive Garden, her pig, while Sophie was still alive but when her dog passed away Olive took over that role. Olive now serves as a support companion to Anne and helps her deal with everything that comes at her on days that she is struggling. She has a senior dog Inga, 2 chickens and Olive Garden the pig. Inga, her 3lb senior dog, is the head of the pack in her home and everyone is totally fine with that. The dynamics of her home work very well for everyone. Anne tells us stories about Olive Garden and challenges that she has experienced with zoning laws in her city and how she was able to overcome them. She also tells us about Olive becoming an emotional support animal for her and what that means for her day to day life with a pet pig. Instagram links: https://instagram.com/TheHitchcockBrunette https://instagram.com/olivegardenthepig https://instagram.com/20thcenturyanne Autumn Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter:
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| The Story of Olive Garden the Pig - Part 1 | 19 Apr 2022 | 01:06:30 | |
In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast we discuss, The Story of Olive Garden the Pig, with Anne. Anne lives in Long Beach, CA and is a radio DJ for a 90's show on 99.1 KLBP. She is a vegetarian and has been a passionate animal welfare advocate for many years. She also has a podcast named, "Off with Her Head History Podcast." She had an emotional support dog, Sophie, but she passed away after 11 years. She inherited Olive Garden, her pig, while Sophie was still alive but when her dog passed away Olive took over that role. She watched Olive rise to the task amazingly. Olive now serves as a support companion to Anne daily and helps her deal with everything that comes at her on days that she is struggling. She has a senior dog Inga, 2 chickens and Olive Garden the pig. Inga, her 3lb senior dog, is the head of the pack in her home and everyone is totally fine with that. The dynamics of her home work very well for everyone. Anne tells us stories about Olive Garden and challenges that she has experienced with zoning laws in her city and how she was able to overcome them. She also tells us about Olive becoming an emotional support animal for her and what that means for her day to day life with a pet pig. Instagram links: https://instagram.com/TheHitchcockBrunette https://instagram.com/olivegardenthepig https://instagram.com/20thcenturyanne Autumn Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: | |||
| Pigs and Herd Hierarchy | 05 Apr 2022 | 00:21:00 | |
In this episode of the Pet Pig Podcast Autumn explains pigs and herd hierarchy. What does it mean that pigs are herd animals? And how does understanding this allow us to be successful with our pet pig? When it comes to pigs there is a hierarchy and they need strong leadership. Autumn will discuss everything we need to know about herd hierarchy and how to successfully keep our pig at the bottom of our family hierarchy. She explains how a pig works its way up and why they may suddenly become mean. She will also explain what feeding and teaching tricks has to do with the hierarchy. A pig needs to learn, from the day we bring them home, where they stand in our family hierarchy and that they will never be the top hog in our family. If we do this we will be successful in having a relaxed and happy pet pig in our family. Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/
Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com
Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/
Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs
Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve
YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA
Newsletter: | |||
| Sunday Short Farm Update | 27 Mar 2022 | 00:08:31 | |
In this Episode of the Pet Pig Podcast, we talk to Autumn's son Preston, to get some behind the scenes info on the farm. Preston gives us an update on the family farm and what they have been up to lately. Preston's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitacre_heritage_homestead/ Preston's YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCPC2MdZtHRDDP1BjWvwhm8w
Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/
Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com
Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/
Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs
Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve
YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA
Newsletter: | |||
| What Should I Look for in a Good Breeder or Rescue? | 15 Mar 2022 | 00:48:08 | |
Sabrina is from the Bay area in California and has 3 pigs Leonard, Lola, and Louie. Each one of her pigs play a special role in her family. Her animals are her motivators to be a better and understanding person. They also help teach her how to be more patient with herself and with others. She feels like she needs them more than they need her. In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast Sabrina explains her passion for rescuing pigs, traveling with pigs, her favorite thing about owning pigs and also her biggest challenges of owning a pet pig. Sabrina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leonardspiglife/ Sabrina Website Coming Soon: https://www.Lululela.com/ Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/
Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com
Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/
Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs
Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve
YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA
Newsletter: | |||
| Is a Pet Pig for Me? | 01 Mar 2022 | 00:24:33 | |
How can you know if a pet pig is for you? What about a pig can make it a challenging pet?
In this podcast I will share tips that you should know about a pig to decide if they are a good fit for your family. Did you know these facts about pigs listed below? Pigs are herd animals. They are prey animals. They are similar to a toddler. And last, pigs are extremely food driven. What does all of this mean for you and your family? I explain what each of these mean for you and your pet pig.
Remember, if you prepare ahead of time and talk to pig owners you can have a happy home with your pet pig. Never stop educating yourself. Another way I can help you is through my Educational Membership group where I share EVERYTHING you need to know about your pet pig. (See link below.)
Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/
Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com
Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/
Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs
Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve
YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA
Newsletter: | |||
| A Chat with an Experienced Vet | 01 Mar 2022 | 00:49:11 | |
On today's episode we are talking with Dr. Tricia M. Pugh, DVM, CVA, CVMMP, Owner Red Star Veterinary Clinic. Dr. Tricia Pugh, owner of Red Star Vet Clinic has been practicing veterinary medicine for the past 13 years on both small and large animals. In both categories, she treats pigs. Pigs have become enormously popular pets and require similar veterinary care that is given to dogs and cats. Dr. Trish enjoys treating pigs on a regular basis at the clinic and on the farm. In the clinic she performs spay and neuter surgeries as well as vaccines and wellness appointments. On the farm, she will administer vaccinations and wellness exams. Pigs are a growing category in family pets and Dr. Trish has embraced them offering the highest quality care for them. In this episode Dr. Trish gives her opinion on some highly debated topics in the pig world. For example: deworming, how often should it be done? What vaccines are needed with a pig, anesthesia, and what warning signs you need to know to get your pig to the vet.
Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: Dr Trish links Website: Instagram: https://instagram.com/redstarvet?utm_medium=copy_link Facebook: | |||
| Thinking Pigs: What Science Says About Your Pig's Mind, Emotions and Personality | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:21:55 | |
https://escholarship.org/uc/item/8sx4s79c In this episode of the Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn dives into groundbreaking research from the paper Thinking Pigs: A Comparative Review of Cognition, Emotion, and Personality in Sus domesticus by Dr. Lori Marino and Christina M. The study compiles decades of scientific research and confirms what pig parents have known all along—pigs are highly intelligent, emotionally complex, and deeply individual animals. Autumn breaks down the most powerful findings from the review, exploring: • Cognition: Pigs are strategic thinkers who can understand symbols, solve multi-step problems, plan ahead, and remember locations and experiences—sometimes better than primates. • Numerosity: Pigs can recognize differences in quantity and make decisions based on past outcomes. They even sense fairness in food and attention distribution. • Emotion: Pigs anticipate events, mirror the emotions of others, and experience judgment bias—pessimistic or optimistic responses depending on their environment. Their ability to feel stress, joy, boredom, and empathy is backed by science. • Personality: Just like people, pigs have stable personality traits that influence how they interact, learn, and respond to training. Knowing your pig as an individual is key to building a strong bond. This episode is a call to action for all pig families to recognize and respect their pigs not just as pets, but as emotional, thinking beings. It's a science-backed reminder that pigs deserve compassionate, informed care—and that understanding their minds makes us better pig parents. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| What's the Deal with Teacup Pigs? | 01 Mar 2022 | 00:14:23 | |
Today we are talking about a controversial topic in the pig world. TEACUP PIGS What are teacup pigs? Probably fifty percent of the phone calls I receive are people asking me if I have teacup pigs. Is there a such thing as teacup pigs? NO Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a pixie pig, a nano pig, a micro pig or a micro mini pig. These words have been created by brilliant marketers and advertisers. So, when it comes to teacup pigs, let's try to gently, and kindly educate others. No healthy pig stays tiny. My hope with this podcast is to empower the pig community with correct information. I want those interested in a pet pig to have the tools to make an informed decision. I also want to support those who already have a pet pig to help them understand them so they can enjoy them even more. Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hDNizT | |||
| What are the Biggest Challenges with a Pet Pig? | 01 Mar 2022 | 00:24:03 | |
Amy lives in Columbus area with her husband of 11 years, two kids, Jace (7) and Addie (4) and a Jack Russel Terrier named Remi. They have had their pig, Annie, for about a year. Amy tells us about how her love of pigs was formed and what the experience of bringing home a piglet was like for her. She also shares what the biggest challenges have been for her. Email:
Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs
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| An Introduction to Autumn | 28 Feb 2022 | 00:14:12 | |
Who am I? What do I do? Where did I come from? What do I do now to support the pig community and help pigs all over the world?
My Name is Autumn Whitacre. I live in Minerva Ohio with my husband and two boys. We have a small homestead in the country. I have loved pigs since I was a little girl. I was a newbie pig owner 19 years ago, and the internet wasn't around so I did a lot of research at the library but there was not much info available. So, I did the best I could. I learned so much from having our first 2 pigs in our life.
My true passion is education. So, I try to step up and provide that information. I try to provide quality education all in one place. Consultations are my absolute favorite thing to do because I get to help people understand their pet pig, so they all thrive together and have less chance of being rehomed or given away.
This podcast is one way that I'm trying to get the word out there that pigs really do make amazing pets, but you have to have the knowledge to understand how to take care of them. My hope is that this podcast will help you understand your pig better so that you can enjoy your pig even more. Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hDNizT
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| The Pet Pig Podcast | 23 Jan 2022 | 00:01:10 | |
Welcome to The Pet Pig Podcast! What is it really like having a pet pig? What is the best way to prepare for a new piglet? How can I be sure a pet pig is for me? How can I care for my pet pig with confidence? What mistakes should I avoid and how can I do that? And the biggest question of all, can I really be successful with a pet pig? Whether your childhood dream is to have a pet pig, you are preparing for a pet pig, or you have a pet pig and would like to learn why they act the way they do, this show is for you! The Pet Pig Podcast is a live - workshop style education podcast packed with actionable steps by step tips that are helping thousands understand and enjoy their pet pig so much more. You can dig in, do the work and train your pig like an expert. Host Autumn Whitacre brings you two decades of experience and expertise with pet pigs. She shares everything she has learned from the best ways to prepare for a piglet to her tops to untrain bad habits and enable your pig to live a fulfilled life. Along with her best kept secrets to understanding pig behavior, she interviews pig experts and families from all over the country. With this new endeavor, she has a deep passion for supporting the pig community and bringing awareness to important issues that face pet pigs. On March 1, 2022, The Pet Pig Podcast will be launching! Every family should have the tools to be successful with a pet pig! Subscribe today to The Pet Pig Podcast and learn the steps to pig care with confidence. Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/Email: Autumn@autumnacresminipetpigs.com Educational Membership Group: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/support-group-subscription/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Mighty Networks: https://autumn-acres-mini-pet-pigs.mn.co/share/EPW2Ie5isMX4T0Ve YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hDNizT | |||
| Piglets & Toddlers: More Alike Than You Think | 29 Jul 2025 | 00:10:08 | |
In this insightful and entertaining episode of the Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn explores the many ways that pet pigs behave like toddlers—and why understanding these behaviors is crucial for any current or future pig parent. Drawing from her two decades of experience, Autumn breaks down common pig traits like tantrums, selective eating, curiosity, and emotional expression, highlighting their parallels to young children. Listeners will learn why pigs need supervision, structure, routine, and social interaction just like toddlers, and why pig-proofing a home is as important as childproofing. Autumn emphasizes the importance of patience, consistency, and education in raising a happy, healthy pig. She also reminds prospective owners that while toddlers grow up, pigs remain in this toddler-like state for life—making pig ownership a long-term commitment. Whether you already have a pig, are thinking about getting one, or just love learning more about these amazing animals, this episode offers valuable insights into the daily realities of life with a pet pig. Key Topics Covered: • Tantrums and emotional expression • Curiosity, mischief, and boundary testing • The importance of routine and supervision • Social needs and separation anxiety • Intelligence, learning, and mental stimulation • Lifelong commitment and realistic expectations Adopting a pig means making a promise—for life. This episode helps you decide if you're truly ready for that responsibility. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| Hot Days, Cool Pigs: Why Summer Hydration Is Critical | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:13:08 | |
In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, host Autumn highlights the life-or-death importance of keeping pigs cool and hydrated during hot summer months. Whether a pig lives indoors or outside, summer heat poses real dangers—especially since pigs don't sweat and can't regulate their body temperature like humans. -Cooling methods: Reliable shade (not just patches that move with the sun)/ Mud wallows (cooling and protective against sunburn and bugs) / Kiddie pools (kept clean and refilled) / Fans, especially in humid climates where water evaporation isn't effective. -Water Bowl Solutions: Heavy-duty rubber or concrete bowls / Fence-mounted or anchored buckets / Automatic livestock waterers / Frozen water bottles or ice blocks to keep water cooler longer. Warning Signs of Heat Stress or Dehydration: Panting (an emergency sign), Lethargy, confusion, or staggering/ Hot skin, especially behind ears / Refusal to eat or drink / Vomiting or diarrhea. Emergency Actions: Move the pig to a shaded, cool area / offer cold water, and cool them gradually with a damp cloth—not ice-cold water / Contact a vet immediately if symptoms are present. Quick Checklist: Always offer cool, clean water / Refresh water at least 3x/day / Ensure shade and/or cooling areas / Use fans in humid environments / Check on pigs frequently / Have backup water in case of outages! Summer heat can be deadly for pigs if not properly managed. Proactive hydration and cooling strategies are key to keeping them healthy and safe! Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| From Hollywood to Hay: Lena Dunham on Life with Her Pigs | 15 Jul 2025 | 01:02:59 | |
In this heartwarming and hilarious episode, Autumn welcomes actress, writer, and director Lena Dunham to share her deeply personal and refreshingly honest journey into the world of pig parenting. From childhood dreams of being a pig farmer (without knowing what that truly meant) to life with her two beloved pigs, Victor and Cherry, Lena brings humor, insight, and an immense love for pigs to the mic. Lena recounts the magical — and messy — experience of bringing Victor home for the first time, learning how different pigs are from dogs, and the eye-opening lessons about boundaries, bonding, and behavior that raising pigs has taught her (including some that surprisingly apply to human relationships). She also shares how discovering The Pet Pig Podcast helped her navigate those early days of confusion and joy, and how Cherry, who came from Autumn's program, became the perfect companion for Victor. Together, Autumn and Lena explore what it really takes to be a good pig parent, from respecting pigs as pigs — not dogs or babies — to understanding their intelligence, emotional complexity, and social needs. Whether you're already living with pigs or dreaming of the day, Lena's story is a charming, honest, and educational ride from the red carpet to the pig pen. Lena reminds us that pigs have a way of changing our lives — not by fitting into our world, but by inviting us into theirs. This episode is a celebration of that transformation, of embracing imperfection, and of learning to meet our animals where they are. It's a must-listen for anyone who's ever loved a pig — or been surprised by how much a pig could teach them about life, love, and letting go. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| Piggy Playlists: How Music Influences Pig Behavior | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:06:42 | |
In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, titled "Piggy Playlists: How Music Influences Pig Behavior," host Autumn explores the surprising connection between music and pig behavior. Drawing from her own experiences at Autumn Acres Mini Pet Pigs, Autumn shares how classical music helps calm pigs during labor and reduces anxiety in weaning piglets—often leading to relaxed, curious, and even playful behavior. She dives into scientific research that supports these observations: -A 2022 study in Nature found that pigs respond emotionally to music. Calming, harmonious music encouraged positive behaviors like playfulness, while dissonant sounds triggered fear and unease. -A 2024 study revealed that music-based enrichment reduced stress in pigs, lowering cortisol and salivary alpha amylase levels and decreasing aggression. Autumn offers practical advice for pig owners: -Choose harmonious, calming music (classical is a great starting point) -Keep the volume low, as pigs have sensitive hearing. -Observe and adjust based on your pig's reactions. -Use music consistently to create positive associations. She encourages listeners to experiment with music in their pigs' environments and share their experiences via Instagram. Autumn emphasizes that music isn't just enjoyable for humans—it's a powerful tool to enhance pig welfare and emotional health. A thoughtful piggy playlist can improve your pig's mood, reduce stress, and create a more peaceful environment—proving that music truly speaks to all species. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| Pig Ears: Why Gunky Isn't Gross | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:09:08 | |
Podcast Episode Summary: "Pig Ears: Why Gunky Isn't Gross" In this episode of the Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn addresses a common concern among pig owners: gunky pig ears. While dark, greasy earwax might seem alarming—especially to dog and cat owners—Autumn explains that in pigs, it's completely normal and actually serves as a natural defense mechanism. Pig ears are open to dirt and debris, so this thick wax helps protect the inner ear. Autumn emphasizes that unless a pig is showing signs of discomfort like head shaking, scratching, or head tilt, there's usually no cause for concern. She offers safe ear-cleaning tips—like gently wiping the outer ear with a warm cloth or a little coconut oil—while warning against deep cleaning or using liquids in the ear canal, which can lead to infection. The episode wraps up with reminders to start ear care early, be gentle, and embrace the fact that clean-looking ears aren't the goal—protected ears are. Gunky pig ears are not gross—they're protective. Skip the deep clean and let nature do its job. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| Piglet SCAMS for Sale Near Me | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:11:51 | |
https://americanminipigassociation.com/
In today's episode, we're tackling a serious and frustrating issue in the pig community—piglet scams. These scams are popping up all over Facebook and the internet, tricking people into thinking they're buying a piglet, only to steal their money with nothing to show for it. I break down the red flags to watch for, like fake photos, new social media pages, and suspiciously low prices. Scammers even steal real breeders' photos—including mine—and pretend to be us. I've had people contact me thinking they were working with me, only to find out they'd been talking to a scammer. I also share practical tips to protect yourself: ask for current photos or videos, request a FaceTime call with the piglet, check social media and reviews, and contact their vet. And most importantly, trust your gut—if it feels off, it probably is. I also recommend checking out the American Mini Pig Association for a list of registered, ethical breeders you can trust. Let's work together to keep our pig community safe and informed. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| Life with Chucky: Ariana's Pet Pig Story | 21 Oct 2025 | 00:58:13 | |
https://mikkoschoice.com/ https://www.facebook.com/p/Pigtube-With-Chucky-61571322991165/ Autumn sits down with Ariana, a passionate animal lover who took the leap into pig parenting after years of curiosity and research. As an adult, she decided to bring home her first pig — a miniature Juliana named Chucky — and her life hasn't been the same since. Ariana takes listeners through every stage of her journey — from months of careful preparation and reading to the day she finally met her pig. Despite all her research, she quickly learned that nothing can truly prepare you for the reality of living with a pig. With humor and candor, she talks about Chucky's early days: the high energy, stubbornness, and surprisingly human-like intelligence that make pigs both challenging and deeply rewarding companions. Autumn and Ariana discuss what many new pig parents experience but rarely talk about — the messy, emotional, and wonderful learning curve of pig ownership. They touch on topics like: 🐽 Training and boundaries: Why consistency and leadership matter from day one, and how Ariana established trust and respect with Chucky. 🐽 Behavior and socialization: How pigs communicate, test limits, and form strong attachments, and why patience and understanding go a long way. 🐽 Dippity Pig Syndrome: Ariana's experience recognizing and managing this temporary but alarming condition — and how she learned to stay calm and supportive through it. 🐽 Living with multiple pets: What it's really like to integrate a pig into a household with dogs, and how Chucky learned to coexist safely and confidently. 🐽 Pig intelligence vs. manageability: Why "smart doesn't mean easy" — and how that intelligence makes pigs both delightful and demanding companions. Through it all, Ariana's love and dedication shine through — as does Autumn's passion for educating, supporting, and connecting the pig-loving community. This episode is both educational and emotional, offering practical insights and heartfelt storytelling that every pig owner (or soon-to-be pig owner) will relate to. Owning a pig isn't just about having a pet — it's about forming a deep, respectful relationship built on communication, trust, and understanding. With preparation, structure, and compassion, that bond can become one of the most rewarding connections you'll ever experience. Whether you're already a pig parent, considering bringing one home, or just fascinated by these incredible animals, this episode will make you laugh, learn, and fall in love with pigs all over again. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| Hooves of All Kinds: From Pigs to Giraffes with Ben Pollak | 17 Jun 2025 | 01:14:55 | |
Episode Title: Hooves of All Kinds: From Pigs to Giraffes with Ben Pollak In this episode, we welcome Ben Pollak, founder of The Farrier Group, for a fascinating conversation about hoof care, animal trust, and a truly unconventional journey into the world of pig wellness. From growing up in Brooklyn and working as a chef, to traveling across the world on a motorcycle and finding himself on a wildlife sanctuary in Australia, Ben's path to animal care is as inspiring as it is unexpected. His passion for animals—especially pigs—shines through as he shares his experiences working with livestock in the Australian outback, professional rodeos, and research universities. He brings a unique combination of hoof care expertise, natural handling methods, and deep empathy to his practice. Ben discusses how his diverse background (including ballroom dancing!) influences the way he handles pigs—focusing on body language, trust-building, and support rather than restraint. He explains the foundation of The Farrier Group and its mission to raise the standard of hoof care for pigs nationwide. Ben also offers valuable insights for pig owners about what to expect during trims, why restraint-free methods matter, and the importance of allowing pigs to feel safe and seen during care. If you've ever wondered what it takes to properly care for a pig's hooves, how to handle an anxious or untrained pig, or how far passion and compassion can take you in building a career that changes lives—this episode is for you. Topics include: • Ben's adventurous path to animal care • The problem with restraint-based hoof trimming • Why most pigs are overfed (and how that affects hoof health) • How The Farrier Group is setting new standards in the industry • What owners can do to prepare for successful trims • Why not to trim your own pig's hooves Whether you're a pig parent, sanctuary manager, or just love a good story of reinvention and purpose, this episode is packed with heart, humor, and hoof wisdom. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| The Damaging Myth of Teacup Pigs | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:15:55 | |
https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn debunks the myth of "teacup pigs," explaining that there is no such breed — the term is purely a marketing gimmick. She shares how pigs grow for up to five years, and even the smallest healthy adult pigs typically weigh 75 pounds or more.
Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||
| When Breeders Fail Families: Why Education Matters So Much | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:20:59 | |
https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/preparing-for-a-new-piglet In this episode, I'm getting honest about something I've seen far too often. Today, I'm sharing the story of a piglet and a well-meaning family who were set up to fail by a breeder who cared more about money than about the life they were helping to create. From overfeeding advice to a complete lack of vet history, this family was given none of the tools they needed to succeed—and their pig is now paying the price. This episode is not about blame or shame. If you've been in this situation, please hear me when I say: it is not your fault. You trusted someone you believed was a professional. This conversation is about raising awareness, sharing hard truths, and helping prevent future families from ending up in the same heartbreaking position. We'll talk about: • The dangers of backyard breeders • What families should be told before bringing home a pig • How to identify a reputable breeder • What to ask, what to look for, and how to prepare • The role of hormones, behavior, and unmet needs in pigs • And most importantly, how we can stop supporting unethical practices by voting with our dollars and educating ourselves If you care about pigs, want to be the best pig parent you can be, or just want to hear the truth behind some of the biggest issues in the mini pig world, this episode is for you. It's emotional, but it's necessary. Autumn's Links: Website: https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/ Email: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Educational Membership Group: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/ Facebook: HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs Free Community: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA Stan Store: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs Newsletter: | |||