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Pigs, Pot-bellied - Vaccinations
It is very important to vaccinate pot-bellied pigs to protect them against common dangerous infectious diseases. The vaccinations needed will vary depending on whether a pig is going to be used for breeding, if it will travel to shows, or if it has exposure to other pigs. If you travel to Mexico, this may also affect what vaccinations your pig may need. Certain vaccinations are also recommended to prevent diseases that humans can also get.
All pot-bellied pigs should be vaccinated against Erysipelas, Leptospirosis, Actinobacillus, Clostridium, and Rabies (which is considered "extra-label" use since the vaccine is not specifically produced for swine). Pot-bellied piglets and pigs that are routinely exposed to other pigs should also be vaccinated for Mycoplasma, Bordetella, and Pasteurella. Breeding pigs should be vaccinated for Parvovirus and Escherichia coli (E. coli) prior to farrowing. Pigs that go to shows routinely should be vaccinated for Swine Influenza.
If a sow has been properly vaccinated, her piglets are protected against many major diseases. Piglets should receive initial vaccinations at 8 weeks of age and receive boosters 3-4 weeks later. Vaccinations should then be boostered every 6-12 months depending on the vaccination. It is important to repeat this point: some pigs will need certain vaccines every 6 months in order to stay protected!
A vaccination stimulates the pig's immune system in order to "teach" it to recognize certain infections. This may cause a pig to become lethargic and it may have pain at the injection site. If this occurs, consult a veterinarian. We often recommend an appropriate dose of aspirin to help relieve a pig's discomfort. These vaccine side effects usually resolve in 24 hours.
Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction to a vaccine, is rare for a pig. If your pig has diarrhea, trouble breathing, red patches or bumps on the skin, immediate veterinary care is recommended.
Copyright 2010
Kevin Wright and Jay Johnson
Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital
744 N Center Street
Mesa, AZ 85201
info@azeah.com
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