The Oldest Pet Vietnamese Pot-belly Pig

According to Valerie Wigglesworth of the Dallas Morning News, Oscar, the Vietnamese Pot-bellied pet pig is the world's oldest pig. Oscar the potbellied pig turned twenty years old in October 2009. The normal life span of a pot-bellied pig is fifteen to twenty years old. Oscar was named the World's Oldest Pig by the Guinness World Book of Records.

The 130 pound, pet pig lived with his owner Stacy Kimball in Far North Dallas, Texas since 1989. She originally bought the Vietnamese Pot Bellied Pig because her husband was allergic to traditional furry pets. He was a cute, tiny pig when Kimball brought him home but reached an all time high weight of 180 pounds as he grew.
The pet pig is an ideal watchdog for the family and continues to prove his loyalty every day. Kimball said that Oscar was intelligent, affectionate, and she can understand many of the sounds he makes.

About Vietnamese Pot-bellied Pigs

The Vietnamese Pot-bellied pig was bred as a domesticated pig and is smaller than the American and European pigs raised on farms. The pet pot-belly pig is also known as a mini pig or miniature potbelly pig. Although these pet pigs are called miniature, they grow to be approximately 15 inches tall and three feet long. They also weigh from seventy to one hundred and fifty pounds.

The Vietnamese Potbelly pig is adorable as a piglet but people considering raising a potbelly pig need to realize just how large the pet pig becomes. These mini pigs make wonderful pets with their friendly temperament, intelligence, and loyalty but they do not get along well with dogs. As long as the pig's adult size is taken into consideration, the potbellied pig makes a wonderful addition to the family.

Pet Potbelly Pig Care

Keep in mind that a pet potbelly pig will learn to do many things you may not want it to do, so pig proof your home. Many pet pigs can open refrigerator doors, and they love ripping up newspaper or even books for bedding. The Vietnamese pot belly pig can also be litter box trained just like a cat.

Remember that these pet pigs depend upon their owners for love and care. They are smart and caring animals that deserve a lifetime commitment from their owners. If you are planning on getting a mini pet pig, research pig care. Just like cats and dogs, pet pigs need the correct type of feed and vitamins. They also eat fresh fruits, vegetables, an even treats like popcorn and Cheerios.

Hundreds of these Vietnamese Pot-bellied pigs are abandoned each year because pet owner did not take the time to fully understand the care and responsibility of owning a pig. Take the time to understand the facts of owning a pet potbelly pig before bringing one home.

Resources: Valerie Wigglesworth, Dallas Morning News (Dallas, TX), March 2, 2010 pNA. Oscar the Oldest Pig

Pot Bellied Pig Care