My first litter questions

[3kidsomy]

Do i worm her before she farrows, is it necessary? Are there any immunizations i need to give her before or after, and at what age do i give the piglets their iron shots/immunizations(which ones)? I have looked and looked, just can't seem to find the info. She is due June 9th, can't wait!! Thanks!

[Ronney]

You will no doubt get many different answers to your questions but yes, I always worm two weeks before farrowing as sows will pass on any worms to their piglets. I worm the piglets as they're sold (8 weeks) and for any that I keep to raise through to porkers, that is usually the first and last worming they have.

I don't give iron as they are usually in a free-range situation and will get their requirements out of the soil. For those in a penned situation, I dig up a sod of earth, complete with grass and weeds, and throw it in the pen on a daily basis. It keeps them occupied for hours and they make a horrible mess while they're at it.

I don't immunise for anything but that may not apply to the area you live in. Have a chat to your vet who should have good local knowledge and can advise you on this.

Enjoy your piglets, they are great time wasters.

Cheers,
Ronnie