Mr Darcy



Rates: George Orwell's Animal Farm, truffles and fine wine sorry swine.

Slates: The derogatory depiction of pigs in the media, Swine Flu and Mark Wright.

Did you know: Pigs were domesticated around 7,000 BC. They were the first animals to ever be used domestically.

Guide for keeping a healthy pig

TOWIE has been working alongside a range of 'official' pig associations in the UK to ensure Mr. Darcy is kept happy and healthy at all times.

For anyone who is looking for their very own Mr. Darcy you must first be:  Before taking your Mr. Darcy home you need to take into consideration: Before taking your first steps into pig ownership your first port of call should be www.defra.gov.uk. They can give you a great deal of useful and necessary information about owning your very own little pig!
 * Caring
 * Responsible
 * Skilled and knowledgeable in the care of livestock.
 * Habitat – where will you keep your new best friend? Don’t forget you can get both indoor and outdoor pet pigs.
 * Diet – a pig’s good health is founded on exercise and good food.
 * Medical care – make sure you have a vet in your area who knows about pigs.
 * Pet restrictions – you will need to check with your local council as different jurisdictions have different rules.
 * Finance – like any other pet a pig doesn’t come cheap, taking into consideration food, toys, and medical bills.

The Farm Animal Welfare Council has developed the Five Freedoms to help you get started.

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst – by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour;

2. Freedom from discomfort - by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area;

3. Freedom from pain injury or disease - by prevention or by rapid diagnosis and treatment;

4. Freedom to express most normal behaviour - by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animals’ own kind;

5. Freedom from fear and distress - by ensuring conditions and treatment to avoid mental suffering.

A couple of useful links:
 * http://www.defra.gov.uk/foodfarm/farmanimal/welfare/onfarm/documents/pigcode.pdf
 * http://www.defra.gov.uk/foodfarm/farmanimal/movements/pigs/documents/new_owner_guide.pdf
 * http://micropigsuk.co.uk/