Pampered Suffolk micro pig making at home in Ipswich as pandemic fuels surge in popularity

This pampered pig is making herself right at home just like a puppy would - as the Covid pandemic pet boom has seen a surge in the popularity of micropigs.

Families around the country, including right here in Suffolk, have welcomed the tiny pigs into their homes over the last year, and the unusual pets seem to be fitting right in alongside other animals including dogs, cats, birds, and tortoises.

In fact, micro pigs can be house trained in much the same way as a dog, learning to eat from a bowl in the kitchen, go for walks on a lead - and even learning tricks like 'sit' or 'stay'

Micro pig farm Kew Little Pigs, say they have seen a huge number of applicants during the pandemic, keen to give a home to miniature or micro pigs.

Founder Olivia Mikhail said: "Everyone talks about the puppy boom, but there has also been a piggy boom.

"We always make sure that our little pigs go to a good home, and people should do their research before adopting a pig.

"But we think it’s wonderful that so many people are considering micro pigs."

Among the animals from Kew Little Pigs that have found a new home during the pandemic is Mavis - who was adopted in September 2020 by social media manager Demi Moore.

Mavis now lives in Demi's home in Ipswich, along with African grey parrot Walter, tortoises Albert and Ernest, and hairless cats Alfred and Mabel.

Committed vegan Demi, 28, said: "I have always wanted to adopt a micro pig, but then we went to Kew Little Pigs as a birthday day out for my friend and it went from wanting to feeling like I really needed one.

"She is so loving and affectionate and follows me wherever I go.

"She is very clever so it's important to give her lots of things to do - she has a paddling pool, ball pit, a little house with straw and also a dispensing treat ball to keep her entertained.

"In the evenings she comes and sits with me on the sofa and she loves a belly rub. She fits right in and we really love her.

"I wanted to adopt her because when people meet her they will see a different side to pigs that they don't think about normally.

"They will see that pigs are no different to their dogs and cats, and maybe think about things a bit more."

To find out more about Kew Little Pigs, visit: https://kewlittlepigs.com.

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