The Pet Pig Podcast

Autumn Whitacre
  • 4.9 (34)
  • 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. Jul 7

    The Truth About Multiple Pigs: Introducing a New Pig Without Losing Your Mind

    Thinking about adding another pig to your family? Or are your pigs suddenly fighting after years of living together peacefully? In this episode, Autumn breaks down the fascinating social dynamics of multi-pig households and explains why conflict between pigs is often completely normal.            Learn why pigs don't instantly become friends, how hierarchy shapes their behavior, and why food competition can become a serious problem if it's not managed correctly. Autumn shares practical tips for introducing a new pig safely, including slow introductions, scent swapping, supervised interactions, and setting up your environment to help pigs succeed.           She also explains why pigs that have lived together for years may suddenly begin fighting, what role fear and scent changes can play after veterinary visits or hoof trims, and how to help rebuild their relationship without making the situation worse.          Whether you're introducing a rescue pig, managing an established herd, or simply trying to better understand pig behavior, this episode will help you set realistic expectations and create a safer, more peaceful home for everyone.           Remember, success doesn't always mean your pigs become inseparable best friends. Sometimes peaceful coexistence is the greatest victory of all. 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

  2. Jun 23

    Vet Care for Pet Pigs

    https://mikkoschoice.com/    https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/the-complete-pet-pig-resource-library            Finding quality veterinary care for a pet pig can be one of the biggest challenges pig owners face. In this episode, Autumn discusses why it can be difficult to find veterinarians who are experienced and comfortable treating pet pigs, and what pig parents can do to prepare.           Autumn explains how pet pigs often fall into a unique category between livestock and pets, leaving many veterinary professionals with limited training and experience in pig-specific care. She shares practical tips for finding and evaluating a veterinarian, including important questions to ask, how to assess a clinic's comfort level with pigs, and why building a relationship with a veterinarian before an emergency occurs is so important.           Whether you're a new pig parent or have shared your life with pigs for years, this episode provides valuable guidance to help you advocate for your pig's health, build a strong veterinary partnership, and feel more confident when unexpected situations arise. 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

  3. Jun 2

    5 Things I Always Do with My Pigs Before Summer Hits

    In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn shares five important things pig owners should do to prepare their pigs for summer weather and prevent heat-related problems.           She explains that pigs struggle with heat because they cannot sweat efficiently, making shade and cooling areas essential. Autumn recommends checking pig areas throughout the day to ensure shade remains available as the sun moves, and suggests options like trees, tarps, shade cloths, lean-tos, and covered porches.           She also stresses the importance of reliable water access, noting that pigs often flip or spill water bowls. Dehydration can become dangerous quickly in hot weather and may contribute to salt toxicity, so owners should make sure pigs always have access to cool, shaded water.           Another major topic is mud and cooling zones. Autumn explains that pigs use mud to regulate body temperature, protect their skin from the sun, repel bugs, and satisfy natural instincts. She shares ideas such as kiddie pools, shallow bins, sprinklers, gentle hose spraying, and homemade mud areas to help pigs stay cool.            The episode also covers spring and summer grazing. While pigs enjoy grass, especially sugary spring grass, too much grazing can lead to rapid weight gain. Autumn explains how she carefully manages grazing access and adjusts pellet feeding to maintain healthy body condition and reduce the risk of overheating.           Finally, she discusses enrichment during hot weather. Since pigs tend to become less active outside in extreme heat, boredom can lead to destructive behavior indoors. She recommends enrichment activities like rooting boxes, treat hunts, frozen snacks, snuffle mats, cardboard boxes, and blankets to keep pigs mentally stimulated and happy.           The episode closes with important heat safety reminders, including warning signs of overheating such as panting, lethargy, weakness, and refusing food. Autumn also explains the dangers of salt toxicity and emphasizes that overheated or dehydrated pigs should be cooled and rehydrated slowly, not all at once. 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

  4. May 19

    Why Your Pig is Bored (and How Real Enrichment Helps)

    https://mikkoschoice.com/           In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn dives deep into one of the most important aspects of pig care: enrichment.           This conversation goes beyond simply "keeping your pig busy" and explores how true mental and physical stimulation directly impacts a pig's behavior, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. Autumn breaks down what enrichment really means, highlighting how it allows pigs to express natural behaviors like rooting, foraging, exploring, and problem-solving.           Backed by research, she explains how enrichment reduces stress, improves learning ability, and prevents destructive and aggressive behaviors—while the lack of it can lead to frustration, anxiety, and behavioral issues.           You'll also walk away with a wide range of practical, easy-to-implement ideas, including: Indoor enrichment setups like rooting boxes, snuffle mats, ball pits, paper activities, and blanket piles Outdoor enrichment like walks, tarp play, straw bales, and dedicated rooting areas Simple strategies like rotating toys and environments to keep your pig's world engaging without overwhelming them           Autumn also connects the dots between enrichment and common behavior problems, explaining how a mentally fulfilled pig is calmer, less destructive, and easier to live with.            If you want a happier, healthier pig—and a more peaceful home—this episode is packed with real-life insight and actionable ideas to help your pig truly 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: https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs

  5. May 5

    5 Essential Trainings Your Pig Should Know

    In this episode, Autumn of Autumn Acres Mini Pet Pigs explores the foundational training and behaviors every pet pig should know to create a calmer, safer, and more enjoyable life for both pigs and their families.           Autumn introduces her "pig training blueprint," focusing on five key areas that help prevent common behavioral challenges that can lead to frustration, stress, and even rehoming. She begins with the importance of reliable recall, teaching pigs to come when called using consistent "magic words" paired with positive reinforcement and food rewards. This builds trust, communication, and critical safety response in everyday life and emergencies.           Next, she discusses the importance of teaching pigs to remain calm before meals, emphasizing that pigs must learn emotional regulation rather than reacting in panic or demand-based behavior. Autumn explains how consistency and timing help pigs understand that calm behavior earns food, not chaos.           Building on that concept, she introduces the idea of pigs working for their food. Simple training behaviors like "touch" and "spin" are used to encourage focus, impulse control, and respect for guidance while reinforcing the human-pig relationship in a positive and structured way.           Autumn also highlights cooperative care—helping pigs become more comfortable with handling, grooming, and basic medical checks through regular, low-stress practice. This early desensitization can make essential care tasks significantly easier and less stressful over time.           Throughout the episode, Autumn emphasizes consistency, leadership, and clear communication as the foundation of successful pig ownership. Her approach focuses on building trust and structure so pigs can thrive emotionally and behaviorally in a home environment. 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

  6. Apr 28

    From Lost in the Mountains to a Miracle at Home: Alana's Pig Story

    https://www.facebook.com/reel/1936685963728239/      In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn sits down with Alana, a first-time pig owner whose unexpected journey into pig ownership quickly turned into a full-fledged learning experience—and ultimately, a passion.           Alana shares how what started as a simple plan to add a single mini pig to her homestead turned into adopting two adult pigs—one of whom was unknowingly pregnant. From there, her story takes a dramatic turn, including a two-month search for her escaped sow, Bonnie, who gave birth to her piglets while living in the wild. Alana recounts the challenges of tracking, capturing, and eventually reuniting the entire pig family, offering a raw and honest look at the realities of pig ownership.            Throughout the conversation, Alana and Autumn discuss the steep learning curve that comes with pigs—from their strength and intelligence to their unique emotional needs and social behaviors. Alana reflects on the importance of research, proper fencing, building trust, and establishing leadership as the "top hog."           Despite the challenges, Alana also shares the deeply rewarding side of pig ownership, describing the strong bonds she's formed—especially with her affectionate boar, Enzo—and how pigs have completely changed her perspective.            This episode is filled with real-life lessons, practical advice, and heartfelt moments, making it a must-listen for anyone considering bringing a pig into their life or wanting to better understand these intelligent, complex animals. 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

  7. Apr 21

    Spring with Your Pig: Mud, Parasites, Shedding, and Everything Else You Should Know

    https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/autumnacresminipetpigs_tickprotocol https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/the-complete-pet-pig-resource-library           Spring is finally here—and while the warmer weather and green grass are exciting, this season also brings a whole new set of challenges for pig parents.           In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn from Autumn Acres walks you through everything you need to know to confidently care for your pig during the spring months. From muddy paddocks and messy hooves to parasites, ticks, and sudden diet changes, this is your complete guide to navigating the season without stress.           You'll learn practical, real-life strategies to manage mud (without losing your sanity), how to prevent and handle common spring parasites, and what to watch for when ticks start appearing. Autumn also breaks down how spring grass can impact your pig's weight and digestion—and how to safely transition into grazing.           Plus, she covers seasonal changes like coat blowing, hydration needs, and temperature swings so you can keep your pig comfortable, healthy, and thriving.           Whether you're a new pig parent or have years of experience, this episode will help you stay prepared, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of springtime with your pig.   ⸻   🎧 In this episode, you'll learn:     •    How to manage mud and keep your home cleaner     •    Simple and effective parasite awareness and prevention tips     •    What to do about ticks (and how to stay calm about them)     •    How spring grass affects your pig's health and weight     •    Seasonal changes like shedding, temperature regulation, and hydration 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

  8. Apr 7

    Can Pigs Sense Our Emotions?

    In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn explores the powerful and often overlooked connection between pigs and human emotions. Blending scientific insight with real-life experience, she explains how pigs are incredibly sensitive animals that can pick up on subtle cues such as scent, body language, tone of voice, and even physiological changes linked to stress.           Autumn walks listeners through emerging research that suggests pigs may detect emotional states in both humans and other animals, and how their own behavior and stress levels can shift in response. She shares how this sensitivity can sometimes lead to confusion or reactivity—especially when pigs are interacting with humans who feel anxious, fearful, or unpredictable.           Through personal stories and practical examples, Autumn highlights a common pattern she's observed: pigs often respond differently depending on the emotional energy of the person interacting with them. She explains how calm, confident, and consistent behavior can help pigs feel safe and secure, while tension or uncertainty can unintentionally trigger defensive responses.           Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of how their own emotional state plays a role in their pig's behavior, along with simple, actionable strategies to create more positive, predictable interactions. This episode is a thoughtful reminder that pigs are not only intelligent, but deeply perceptive—and that building trust starts with the energy we bring into the relationship. 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

See All (154)

Trailer

4.9
out of 5
34 Ratings

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
    154
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    The Pet Pig Podcast

You Might Also Like