Change city code. Allow miniature pigs within city limits for pets.
Pigs are intelligent, very clean and loving animals. They make amazing pets for dedicated and responsible owners. Currently, city code (in countless cities across the nation) have laws prohibiting pigs within city limits. In fact, the actual wording is "hogs" in most codes, which are by definition swine that reach 120 lbs + in weight.
It is understandable that outdoor 'farm' pigs should not be allowed within city limits to prevent unsightly pens and odors from invading our neighborhoods, due to unsatisfactory dwellings for pigs made by man. However, micro and mini potbelly pigs (aka teacup pigs, miniature pigs etc) should be the exception to the rule, and the laws should be updated to reflect the difference between 'livestock' and 'domestic pets'.
Obviously, pet pigs would have to abide by the same codes and regulations as other domestic pets like dogs (kept on a leash when being walked, spayed and neutered and maintained with proper vet care etc).
Sign this petition to change the city code so domestic miniature pigs can be kept as pets for responsible owners. People are allowed to keep dangerous predatory dogs that reach over 100 lbs but most miniature pigs, like micro breeds, never exceed 30 to 75 lbs. Pigs are excellent alternatives to people who have allergies to dogs and cats, they do not carry fleas like other domestic pets, and they are excellent therapy animals for special needs individuals.
According to Professor Donald Broom of the Cambridge University Veterinary School, "[Pigs] have the cognitive ability to be quite sophisticated. Even more so than dogs and certainly [more so than human] 3-year-olds."
In his book The Whole Hog, biologist and Johannesburg Zoo director Lyall Watson writes, "I know of no other animals [who] are more consistently curious, more willing to explore new experiences, more ready to meet the world with open mouthed enthusiasm. Pigs, I have discovered, are incurable optimists and get a big kick out of just being."
The world could use more pigs! Smile, and sign this petition!
