Grown & Shown by Harper Jean: A 4H Journey
Join me as I learn about raising and showing quality 4H pigs
Meet Harper Jean!
Hi, I'm Harper Jean. I'm 11 years old. This is my 5th year in 4H, and my 2nd year showing Swine. I have a lot to learn and I'm excited to share my journey with you!
All things swine
Preparing for the Piglets
Preparing for the Piglets
Preparing for the Piglets
Last year my Dad, Uncle, brother, myself, and many friends helped build our pig pen/shelter. It's been referred to as the "Piggy Palace." We worked really hard on it, and I'm proud of it!
First things first, everything will be sanitized with a bleach/water solution. New pine shavings will be added, and sprayed with a solution to ensure there are no mites that could infect the piglets.
Heat lamps will be checked and installed.
New grooming brushes, skin conditioner, and pig whips will also be purchased.
It's important to buy whatever food the breeder has been feeding that way it doesn't cause gastrointestinal issues. It's okay to change feed, but it must be done gradually.
Picking Piglets
Preparing for the Piglets
Preparing for the Piglets
My 4H Swine leader has taught us about what to look for when choosing a piglet.
Feet First! - Look for two toes spread a little apart, that are flat and stand on it's pad. Pastern strength- look for a 45* angle.
WALK! Watch for a smooth gait. Make sure the pig picks up its foot and steps straight out, not criss-crossing.
Chest! Look for a nice flat chest. When looking at the pig from the front, it should make a rectangle shape between their front legs, chest and ground.
HIPS! Again, look for a straight walk. Good flex, the back leg should kick out and step straight forward. No shake when walking. Look for a long stride.
Side profile!
Back legs! Big legs are better.
Settling in
Preparing for the Piglets
Settling in
When we get the piglets home we offer them fresh cool water and food. I like to sit in the pen with them and let them get used to my voice, touch, and smell. They tend to be a little nervous at first, but as they get used to me I start gently brushing them, since that will be part of our daily routine.
After a week or so I will start walking them and whip training them, which takes lots of patience. Pigs often get "zoomies" when they're let out of their pen, which is funny, but must be corrected so they learn the proper way to perform.
At this point, it's about keeping the pigs healthy by monitoring their eating habits, potty routine, putting them on a worming schedule, and keeping them warm and dry. Because, I've learned from my leader that a wet and cold pig equals a sick pig.