Petting pig

Question
I have adopted a 3 month old male pig. He is so adorable and full of personality. But, he was never handled, and won't allow me to get close to him. I tried to ply him with his favorite treat, but will not approach close enough for me to touch him. I would be so gratefule if you could tell me how I can get close to him, to pet him.
Thanks so much,
Jenny

Answer
Pigs are very smart, and he will quickly warm up to you. Start by giving him a safe space, like a large crate, closet or small room with his litterbox and bed. Work with him just before meal time when he's hungry. Sit quietly on the floor, talk softly to him and let him approach you. Hold the treat out for him and let him take it. Let him go at his own pace.

Always tell him what you're going to do before you do it. When he's eating his meal, tell him you're going to touch him, then touch him gently. After a few meals, he'll let you gently touch him and scratch his belly.

When it's his nap time, sit in his space with him and talk softly to him. Eventually, as he's napping, tell him what you're going to do, and start touching him gently. Try to rub his tummy.

I highly recommend the book Pot-Bellied Pig Behavior and Training by Priscilla Valentine. Pris really understands pigs and how they think. Her book is available from Amazon.com Some other good resources are www.pigs4ever.com and www.farec.org