I Think Dave Is Lonely - Honest Advice Please

[Lindabelle]

Hi all, I joined the forum about three weeks ago having adopted Dave the rescue piggy. Hes already had a hutch upgrade as I the one I bought was too small, and it has always been my intention to get him a companion. Having been advised initially that boar to boar introductions can be tricky I opted to keep him on his own and have him neutered when hes old enough and then after the 6 weeks of waiting for him to be infertile, get him a wife-pig.
However, over the last 3 weeks hes been squeaking and chattering, and laying in his cage sleeping and I feel so sorry for him being on his own. Its going to be late September before he will be able to have a wife, so I'm wondering if I did the right thing or should I try and find a boar that is younger and smaller than him and try an introduction?
I really am open to all suggestions, his welfare is my main concern.

 

[Deleted member 114675]

I know Dave isn't bereaved but, I'm sure advice in this thread will help ...

Looking After A Bereaved Guinea Pig

 

[tabelmabel]

I can't offer any expert advice as such - this is only my personal experience
I had 2 baby boars (stan and Benson) who lived together for almost 4 yrs til stan died. For the entire 4 years i got used to their noises and activity level round the cage.

They lived in my kitchen and weren't at all shy, happy to sleep in the open etc.

Then stan got ill. Benson was ok and still rumbling away at stan who kept getting in his way
then stan died.


Benson carried on eating but fell silent and spent his entire day in his box asleep. He would come out for a little potter and food and then go back into his box. Worst of all he was silent.

Only 48hrs later, i put a baby boar in and benson was transformed! Initially there was a lot of chasing and so forth but a month later they have settled very nicely. Benson just looks happier.

He is wheeking again and he is just back to normal



So - maybe the fact that your boy is making noises at all is a good sign?

(I'm sure someone who actually knows a thing or two will put me right!)

Generally, pigs are happier with a friend but it might be that your extra attentions are sufficient in the meantime.

i think if you will be happy with 2 pigs and happy to take on another boar (bearing in mind you will be in this position again when one dies) then it'd be best to pair him up asap.

If you want a few pigs (or might want more in time) then the neutering option is best.


but I'm certainly not one of the more experienced people on here, I'd be first to admit!