SHOW PIGS
Show Pigs
FOR SALE
**TAKING Reservations FOR January-March Born**
We begin our breeding program in the fall for early spring litters. Due to demand from Benton-Franklin County Fair, Walla Walla County Fair and Frontier Days and the Columbia County Fair, we aim to have piglets born between January 15 and March 15. We’ve relied on natural breeding up to this point and will continue with some of that, but are introducing artificial insemination for the first time this year. We hope the effort yields improved stock while also diversifying our genetic lines here at Biagi Farms.
Butcher Hogs
For Sale
**TAKING Reservations FOR January-March Born**
We begin our breeding program in the fall for early spring litters. Due to demand from Benton-Franklin County Fair, Walla Walla County Fair and Frontier Days and the Columbia County Fair, we aim to have piglets born between January 15 and March 15. We’ve relied on natural breeding up to this point and will continue with some of that, but are introducing artificial insemination for the first time this year. We hope the effort yields improved stock while also diversifying our genetic lines here at Biagi Farms.
Show pig reservation form
Current show pig Price: $300/Pig*
Show Pigs are sold in order of reservations and deposits. We can’t guarantee availability and will refund your deposit in the event of a shortage of pigs. We aim for birthdays between the beginning of January and the middle of March, but can’t guarantee birthdays either. If you have a request, please let us know and we’ll do what we can to accommodate.
* There is a $100 deposit that needs to be paid to secure your show pig reservation. We’ll send an invoice within a few days of receiving your order above, and a final invoice prior to your pickup date.
What you can expect leading up to pig’up day…
Perhaps you’re an old pro – you very likely know what we’re doing better than we do, but if you’re new to showing hogs or need a refresher, here’s how it goes…
Designate enough space for your pigs to grow and be comfortable.
Bedding
Bedding plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of show pigs raised by 4-H and FFA youth. Providing clean and comfortable bedding helps maintain proper hygiene and reduces the risk of illnesses.
Quality bedding material absorbs moisture and waste, ensuring a dry and clean environment for the pigs.
This not only promotes their physical comfort but also prevents skin issues and respiratory problems. In the competitive world of local fairs, healthy pigs with impeccable coats and skin are more likely to impress judges and secure top placements.
Shelter
A well-designed shelter is indispensable for the successful raising of show pigs from spring to fall.
It offers protection from extreme weather conditions, keeping pigs safe from scorching heat or chilly nights. Proper ventilation in the shelter ensures fresh air and regulates temperature, crucial for the pig’s overall health.
Additionally, shelter provides a space for feed and water, reducing stress during feeding and allowing easy monitoring of the pig’s development.
For 4-H and FFA youth participating in local fairs, a sturdy shelter is the foundation of their pigs’ comfort and performance.
Show Pig Food
Nutrition is a cornerstone of raising show pigs to their full potential.
A balanced and high-quality diet is essential for growth, muscle development, and overall vitality.
Show pigs require a carefully formulated diet that provides the right mix of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Feeding schedules and portion control are crucial to achieving the desired weight and body composition for exhibition.
Ensuring that show pigs receive the best possible nutrition is a key responsibility for 4-H and FFA youth as they prepare their pigs for local fairs where judges scrutinize the animal’s physique and muscle tone.
Water
Water is a lifeline for show pigs throughout their growth cycle from spring to fall.
Adequate hydration is essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, and body temperature regulation.
Clean and readily available water is a fundamental requirement for the well-being of pigs. Additionally, maintaining proper water quality ensures that the pigs remain healthy and free from waterborne diseases.
For 4-H and FFA youth exhibiting pigs at local fairs, access to clean water is not only a matter of pig welfare but also a critical aspect of preparing the animal to look its best in front of judges, as hydration directly affects the pig’s muscle tone and overall appearance.
TRANSPORTATION
Regardless of the transportation option you choose, prioritize the comfort and safety of the weaner pig during transit. Ensure proper ventilation, secure the pig to prevent injury or escape, and drive carefully to minimize stress.
Personal Vehicle: If you have a vehicle with enough space, you can transport a weaner pig in the back of a truck or SUV. Ensure that the pig is secured in a suitable crate or enclosure to prevent it from moving around during transit.
Trailer: A livestock trailer is an excellent option for transporting weaner pigs. These trailers are designed to safely carry animals and provide ample space for multiple pigs. Make sure the trailer is clean and well-ventilated.
We feed our pigs a mixed ration of local grains and legumes. Depending on their stage in life, we add necessary supplements like vitamins, minerals and added fats. We also change the ratio of certain grains/legumes per lifestage and size to reach macronutrient targets necessary for proper growth.
Typically our pigs do not receive antibiotics. However, we don’t allow our pigs to suffer from treatable illnesses, and will administer antibiotics if deemed necessary by us and our veterinarian.
Our pigs are housed with the sow in her weaning pen, until weaning (typically around 28 days). After that we will remove the sow and leave the piglets in the weaning pen to adjust to life without their mom. After a week or two of adjusment, we transfer them to an open pen with the automatic feeders.
Thus far, we have a wonderful relationship with Haun’s Meats in Walla Walla but are able to accommodate anything you need. If you’d like to pick up your butcher hog and deliver to your local butcher, have them come pick up here or farm kill, that works for us. We also have people who buy from us to DIY.
Prices vary because of the fluctuations we experience over the course of feeding a pigs over several months. Currently our hog prices are a little over $3.05 – $3.25/lb hanging.
Call, text or fill out the
form WITH any QUESTIONS
(509) 730-5818
Caring for your Show pig after you get home
When you get home
Raising show pigs from the time you pick them up to their final show weight of 230 to 300 pounds is a meticulous and rewarding process for 4-H and FFA youth. This journey typically spans several months, and it requires careful attention to nutrition, housing, and overall pig management to ensure that the animals develop into impressive show contenders.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of raising show pigs to their full potential. A well-balanced diet is essential for growth, muscle development, and overall pig health. As the pigs grow, their dietary requirements change. Initially, they need a diet with higher protein content to support rapid growth. Later, as they approach their target weight, the diet may be adjusted to promote muscle tone and leanness. Feeding schedules and portion control are critical, as overfeeding or underfeeding can have a significant impact on the pig’s development.
Housing and Environment
Providing a clean, comfortable, and stress-free environment is vital for the well-being of show pigs. Proper housing, whether it’s in a barn or a dedicated pig pen, should protect the animals from harsh weather conditions, ensure good ventilation, and allow for proper waste management. Adequate space for exercise and social interaction is also important to prevent stress-related issues and promote muscle development.
Healthcare
Regular health checkups and vaccinations are essential to keep show pigs in top condition. Monitoring for signs of illness, addressing any health issues promptly, and maintaining a vaccination schedule can help ensure the pigs stay healthy and ready for exhibition.
Grooming and Presentation
Show pigs must look their best when they step into the ring. This involves regular grooming, including washing, brushing, and trimming their coats. Attention to detail in presentation can make a significant difference in the judge’s assessment.
The process of raising show pigs from when you first acquire them to their final show weight is a labor of love, requiring dedication and commitment from 4-H and FFA youth. It’s not just about growing a pig; it’s about developing a strong bond with the animal, honing skills in animal husbandry, and showcasing the result of months of hard work and care in the competitive arena of local fairs and exhibitions.