The Pet Pig Podcast

Autumn Whitacre
  • 4.9 (35)
  • PETS & ANIMALS
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

What is it really like having a pet pig? What is the best way to prepare of 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 do 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 had 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 step 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 tips 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 pig families.

  1. 15H AGO

    Why So Many Pigs Are Rehomed (And What We Can Do Instead)

    In this heartfelt episode of the Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn talks about a difficult but important topic in the pig community: how often pet pigs are rehomed. If you spend any time in pig groups online, you see it constantly—families looking for a new home for a pig they can no longer keep. While life circumstances can change, Autumn shares that after more than two decades of working with pigs and pig owners, she has noticed several common patterns behind these situations.           Autumn discusses some of the most frequent reasons pigs end up needing new homes, including divorce or relationship changes, aging owners who can no longer manage daily care, and behavior challenges that families don't know how to address.  Autumn shares the story of a pig who after being separated from the only home and people he had ever known, the pig struggled deeply with the transition and ultimately passed away shortly after. The experience was a powerful reminder of how deeply pigs bond with their families and how difficult rehoming can be for them.           Throughout the episode, the importance of education before bringing a pig home is emphasized. Pigs are incredibly intelligent animals that require structure, training, and a real understanding of their behavior. Too often, people fall in love with the idea of a cute piglet without realizing the long-term commitment that pigs require—often 15 to 20 years of care.           Autumn encourages anyone considering a pig to spend time visiting rescues, sanctuaries, or responsible breeders, interacting with adult pigs, and asking lots of questions before making the decision. She also shares alternatives that may help pigs stay with their families when challenges arise, such as temporary boarding, transitioning pigs to outdoor living spaces, or providing companionship with another pig.           This episode is not about judging or shaming anyone. Instead, it's about helping pig owners and future pig families better understand these incredible animals so that fewer pigs have to lose the only home they've ever known. If you love pigs, have a pig, or are thinking about bringing one into your life, this conversation is an important one to hear. 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

    21 min

  2. MAR 3

    Why Pigs Shouldn't Eat Acorns (Especially Small Pigs)

    https://mikkoschoice.com/           In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn dives into a topic that creates a lot of confusion for pig owners every year: acorns and their potential danger to pet pigs. While the issue comes up most often in the fall, Autumn explains why it's important to understand the risks before pigs are exposed and misinformation starts circulating.           Autumn breaks down why acorns and oak leaves can be harmful, explaining how tannins—natural plant compounds—affect a pig's digestive system and kidneys. She discusses why toxicity depends on the amount eaten relative to a pig's size, making piglets, young pigs, and smaller mini pigs especially vulnerable. The episode also explains the difference between green (immature) and brown (mature) acorns and why green acorns and fresh oak leaves pose a higher risk.           Listeners learn what happens inside a pig's body after consuming too many acorns, why symptoms may be delayed, and how pigs often hide signs of illness. Autumn walks through the warning signs of acorn toxicity, including changes in appetite, behavior, stool, urine color, and overall demeanor, helping owners know what to watch for.           The episode also provides practical guidance on what to do if a pig has access to acorns, when removal and monitoring may be enough, and when it's important to contact a veterinarian. Autumn addresses the common belief that "my pig eats acorns and is fine," explaining why tolerance varies and why lack of immediate symptoms doesn't always mean there's no harm.           Throughout the episode, Autumn emphasizes education over fear, encouraging pig owners to make informed, confident decisions to protect their pigs' long-term health. This episode is a valuable resource for pig owners who want to stay ahead of seasonal hazards and better understand how to keep their pigs 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: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs

    19 min

  3. FEB 24

    Biosecurity - What Every Pet Pig Owner Needs to Understand

    In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn explores the importance of biosecurity for pet pigs—a topic that is rarely discussed but critically important for keeping pigs healthy and safe.           Autumn explains what biosecurity is and why it applies to pet pigs just as much as it does to farm animals. She shares how simple, everyday choices—such as footwear, visitor management, and exposure to public spaces—can significantly impact a pig's health. Drawing from real-life practices on her own homestead, Autumn discusses how she handles boarding, training, and introducing pigs from different environments to reduce the risk of disease, parasites, and bacterial exposure.           The episode also highlights often-overlooked risks found in public spaces, including dog parks, farm stores, and parks where pigs may be exposed to harmful bacteria, parasites, or toxic substances. Autumn emphasizes that biosecurity is not about fear, but about prevention and responsible pig ownership.           This episode encourages pig owners to be more intentional about where their pigs go, what they're exposed to, and how to create a safer, more controlled environment—helping ensure a long, healthy life for the pigs they love. 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

    20 min

  4. FEB 10

    Screaming for Meals: Why Pigs Do It and How to Stop It

    https://mikkoschoice.com/           In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn tackles a common and overwhelming challenge pig owners face: pigs screaming for meals.           This behavior is one of the top reasons pigs are rehomed and one of the most requested help topics in the pig community. Autumn breaks down what's really happening in a pig's brain when they scream for food, why this behavior develops, and how it's often unintentionally reinforced by humans. You'll learn: • Why pigs scream for meals • How screaming becomes a learned behavior • The difference between communication and manipulation • Why giving in even once makes the problem worse • How to retrain food behavior using structure, consistency, and leadership • Practical tools to stop the screaming long-term • How changing routines and environments reduces food anxiety • Why patience and consistency create calm, stable pigs           This episode focuses on long-term solutions, not quick fixes—teaching pig owners how to build calm mealtime routines, reduce stress, and create healthy behavioral patterns that make life better for both pigs and their families.           If you're dealing with food screaming, mealtime anxiety, or demanding behavior, this episode gives you a clear, realistic, and proven path forward. 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

    37 min

  5. 12/23/2025

    Zoning Laws & Pet Pigs: What You Need to Know and How to Advocate

    https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/are-pigs-legal-in-your-city           In this episode, Autumn talks about an important question pig owners face: Are pigs legal in my area? Whether you're already a pig parent or thinking about becoming one, understanding your city or county's zoning laws is critical to keeping your pig safe and your family protected from unexpected legal trouble.           Autumn explains why zoning ordinances matter, how municipalities typically classify pigs, and what can happen if a pig is kept in a zone where they aren't permitted. From neighbor complaints to fines, forced removal, or even animal seizure, she breaks down the real-world consequences pig owners need to be aware of.           Listeners are guided step-by-step through the process of finding their local rules—including how to search municipal codes, which offices to call, what exact questions to ask, and what documentation to request and save. Autumn provides clear scripts to help owners get written confirmation of the law so they're protected if a complaint ever arises.           The episode also explores why pigs are sometimes banned, touching on nuisance concerns, public health regulations, and animal control limitations. Autumn then outlines how many pig owners have successfully changed outdated ordinances, using model zoning packets, community support, and respectful advocacy to propose fair and enforceable solutions.           Practical, detailed, and empowering, this episode gives pig owners the knowledge they need to understand their local laws, navigate issues confidently, and advocate for pet pigs in their communities. 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

    17 min

  6. 12/16/2025

    Payton Moran: Life with Mabel the Pig

    https://mikkoschoice.com/ mabel_theminipig paytonmoran—              In this heartfelt episode, Autumn welcomes Payton from Alabama, to share the story of her pig, Mabel, and the winding, emotional path that led her to becoming a confident and dedicated pig parent.           Payton opens up about her love for pigs and how her first pig ownership experience didn't go as planned. After bringing home her first pig during a difficult time in her life, she quickly realized she wasn't fully prepared, and her life circumstances made proper care nearly impossible. Making the responsible decision to re-home that pig was heartbreaking—but it also reshaped her understanding of what pigs truly need and prepared her to do things right in the future.           Years later, with stable housing, a supportive husband, and a clearer understanding of pig behavior, Payton felt ready to try again. That's when Mabel entered her life. Payton shares how she researched carefully, prepared her home, and committed to doing everything with intention—this time making sure her new pig would have the environment, enrichment, structure, and family she deserved.          Listeners will hear about Mabel's sassy personality, the joy she brings to Payton's home, and how the slow, thoughtful bonding process helped build a deep, trusting relationship.          This episode is a beautiful reminder that being a good pig parent sometimes means learning hard lessons, trying again with more knowledge, and giving a pig a loving forever home when the time is truly right. 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

    40 min

  7. 12/09/2025

    Winter Weather Tips for Pet Pigs

    In this week's episode, Autumn tackles a challenge that every pig parent in colder climates faces: winter. Cold temperatures, snow, rain, and icy ground can make even the most well-trained pig slam on the brakes at the door. But keeping your pig indoors all winter leads to boredom, destructive behaviors, potty accidents, and increased irritability.           Autumn breaks down a practical, compassionate approach to winter pig care with two major goals:     1.    Motivating your pig to go outside despite the weather, and     2.    Keeping them mentally and physically enriched indoors.          Listeners will learn why forcing a pig outside backfires, and how positive experiences—like feeding outdoors, strategic treat use, early desensitization to jackets or capes, and creating safe, walkable outdoor paths—help pigs stay confident and willing to venture out.           Autumn also shares her top indoor enrichment ideas to curb boredom and prevent behavior issues during long winter days. From heat sources and rooting boxes to treat-dispensing toys, licky mats, agility practice, cardboard destruction, and even tarps for sensory play, these activities keep pigs stimulated, happy, and calm when outside time is limited.            Whether you're preparing for your first winter with a pig or looking to make this season smoother than years past, this episode offers inspiration, actionable steps, and reassurance that with the right preparation, winter truly can be manageable for both you and your pig. 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

    19 min

  8. 12/02/2025

    What Temple Grandin Taught Me About Pigs: Eight Lessons Every Pig Owner Should Know

    https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/8-lessons-i-learned-from-temple-grandin           In this deeply insightful episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn shares the lessons that have shaped her understanding of pig behavior, pig emotions, and what it truly means to care for them well—through the lens of pioneering animal behaviorist Temple Grandin.          Drawing from Grandin's influential work in animal welfare and livestock handling, Autumn breaks down eight powerful principles that every pig parent can apply at home. These lessons reveal how pigs think, how they perceive the world, and how small changes in their environment and handling can dramatically improve their confidence, comfort, and behavior.           Listeners will learn:     •    Why pigs "think in pictures," and how sensory details—shadows, reflections, dangling objects—can startle or overwhelm them.     •    How understanding the flight zone and point of balance can reduce stress and build trust during interactions or training.     •    The importance of eliminating visual distractions and creating calm, predictable environments.     •    How gradual acclimation can transform fearful behaviors into confident exploration (including Autumn's personal ramp-training breakthrough!).     •    Why the caretaker's attitude, consistency, and presence are the core of good pig welfare.     •    How genetics and temperament play a meaningful role in a pig's behavior and stress response.     •    Why enrichment isn't optional—pigs require rooting, exploring, and mental stimulation to truly thrive.     •    And finally, how empathy, patience, and understanding a pig's inner world are essential to building a strong, healthy relationship.          Autumn also reflects on the difference between livestock and pets, emphasizing that ethical treatment is a universal responsibility. No matter a pig's role, their emotional experience matters. This episode is perfect for anyone who wants to better understand their pig, improve training success, reduce fear-based behaviors, and deepen their bond.  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

    28 min
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4.9
out of 5
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About

What is it really like having a pet pig? What is the best way to prepare of 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 do 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 had 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 step 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 tips 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 pig families.

Information

  • Creator
    Autumn Whitacre
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    145
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    The Pet Pig Podcast

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