pigs happiness

Question
thanks for your time in advance.  
-have had my pot belly for four years.   for the last two years he has not been able to see for the fat on his head, though he is NOT overweight.  he won't go outside, is too big to move (200+) and sleeps 98% of the time.  he adores me and when not in his own bed sleeping he comes into whatever room i am in a lays downs for a rubbing/nap.  his hooves are WAY too long.  i was away for a bit and they got out of control during that time so now i am able to just get a 1/4 inch off at time with big clippers.  the vet comes to see him and last time unsuccessfully tried to knock him out to clip his nails.  she is coming back on monday.  so the question is-  should i let him go live on a farm?  would he be happier?  i just want him to be happy and i know he is just barely surviving here but worry that he'll not be ok without me on a farm, even though i could visit lots.  what to do???  was told this pig would weigh more than 35 pounds and caring for a 200+ pig is way different.  my vet has mentioned the farm he can go to but don't know much about it yet save that there are two pigs already there.  help!  i love my man and know he deserves better.

Answer
Breeders often misrepresent the size of a full grown pot-bellied pig.
If the pig can not see from fat on his head, then he is overweight. It's difficult to sedate overweight animals, it requires much higher - and much more dangerous - dosages. That's probably why the vet was unable to sedate him on the last visit.
Sometimes it is necessary for responsible adult to play the role of "bad cop" - we must make our pets and children do things they'd rather not. Children must receive vaccinations and attend school. Pot-bellied pigs need to exercise and eat right. As the pig's owner, it's your responsibility to see to it that piggie gets only what he is supposed to eat.
Start by putting piggy on a diet. "Full" or "satisfied" pigs lay around and sleep. "Hungry" pigs are active, they walk around and investigate their world. Give him 3/4 cup of pellets twice a day, and for dinner 3/4 cup of diced vegetables. Set aside 1/4 cup of raisins per day for treats and training.
Piggy will probably be angry at first, but in a few weeks you'll see some weight loss and more activity. Getting his hooves back in shape will help him be more active. Teach piggy a few simple tricks.
I strongly recommend Priscilla Valentine's Pig Training book. She explains exactly what a pig is thinking, and how to work with the pig to get the results you want. Her website is www.valentinesperformingpigs.com
You're lucky to have a vet that's willing to come to your home and work with you. It's pretty easy to immobilize a pig without sedation (but the humans might need ear plugs!). Information on how to do this, and more, is available to veterinarians through the Duchess Fund at www.duchessfund.org