Pig Show Person Necessities and Expectations

I would like to welcome each and every one of you to Midway FFA. In this handout I will hope to describe my expectations, rules, and necessities for raising a swine project under the Midway FFA.

Swine projects are a very rewarding project in my opinion. I have raised and shown pigs all across the state of Texas and had various levels of success at the major, county, and local livestock shows. I bring an extensive knowledge base to the profession and hope to get to share that with each and every one of you. This project is one that will show rewards if the time and work is put in.

Here are a few of my expectations for raising swine. 1. Self-Feeders are an absolute no-no. Studies have shown that animals on self feeders actually grow at a slower pace than that of animals fed twice a day (morning and night). The rate of gain is slowed and cannot be controlled when self-feeders are used. By feeding twice a day we can clean pens and inspect our animals for disease, infections, fungus, etc. 2. Dry shavings need to be under these animals at all times. Dirt is ok but disease, fungus, and insects will be a constant problem. 3. Any disease, fungus, or sickness need to be reported immediately to prevent the spread of that ailment. 4. Feed types are up to the family but I will have suggestions that help to make your animal more marketable. 5. Daily walking/exercise is an absolute necessity. Going to shows means absolutely nothing unless you have yourself and your animal used to a show stick. Each animal will respond differently to each student. 6. This is a family project. 7. Making sure the animal has sufficient water twice daily. If nippled automatic waterers are available (preferable) then insure that the water is always set to the on position and that water is coming out of the nipples. 8. All barn policies will be followed (if at Ag Farm). All animals away from school will be held to similar standards and will be checked regularly.

If you ever have any questions you can email me at [email protected] or call my cell anytime at 281-389-6364.

Thanks

Jess Wheeler Agricultural Science Teacher Midway High School Necessities

Pig Feeder Acceptable: Clip on Feeder

Not Acceptable:

Pig Show Sticks Acceptable: Minimum 36” long – Maximum 48” long (smaller kids will need longer show sticks to reach the head)

Unacceptable: Anything with a flapper Brush A soft bristle brush is necessary to apply conditioners and remove excess materials from your animal. They are needed especially on show days.

Champions Choice

CHC Champions Choice Quart - Skin & Hair Conditioner for pigs. An excellent daily skin care.

There are various other optional materials that may help you all.

Showbox

Sprayer

FEEDS I will never push feeds on people but I have found most Mormon feeds to be very productive. I understand that you may have various other brands like Linder than may suit you better. I don’t have a problem with that. What I do have problems with is feeding cheap feeds or ineffective feeds that do nothing to promote the proper growth of your animals at their given time in their development.

Feed Additives that you will need to add at some point:

Oats More Body More Fat Explode (Palene)

There may be more or less depending on the needs of your particular animal.

What is not permitted to feed your animal? 1. Oreos 2. Apples 3. Etc.

Pigs eat prepared feeds not slop.