About the Pig: General Information

The kind of pig shown in Dr. Rosie is a domesticated pig. Its scientific name is Sus domesticus. Pigs were domesticated in China over 8,000 years ago. They are often kept on farms but sometimes people have them as pets! They are considered one of the smartest of all of the domesticated animals. Pigs have been taught to help people including moving and interacting with computer cursors.

Pigs and Stomaches: Do pigs REALLY get stomach aches?

FACT

Yes! According to Dr. Carlos Gradil, “Pigs really do get stomach aches! There are several causes for pig stomach aches.Together they are called gastritis. Gastritis is a general term for a group of conditions with one thing in common: Inflammation of the lining of the stomach. The inflammation of gastritis is most often the result of infection with the same bacterium that causes most stomach ulcers. There are several things that can cause gastritis: Sometimes, the lining of the stomach can get inflamed if the pig eats the wrong kind or amount of food. Or, if they are under stress.”

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of gastritis in pigs include: bloated appearance, pale skin, breathless, not eating, a tucked up appearance, weak, dehydration

Treatment

There are several treatments depending on the cause. One of them is to move the affected animal from its existing housing into a loose, bedded, peaceful environment. .

FICTION

Veterinarians don’t kiss pigs to help them feel better.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THERAPY PIGS:
https://americanminipigassociation.com/owners/helpful-owner-articles/therapy-mini-pig

Image Credit: iStock.com/Fotosmurf03