In recent years, keeping miniature pigs as pets has become increasingly popular in Taiwan. However, this trend has led to concerns about animal abandonment, particularly in New Taipei City.
Statistics and Fines
According to the New Taipei City Animal Protection Office, there were 14 reported cases involving pigs in 2024. A significant number of these cases involved the abandonment of young piglets. The Animal Protection Office is reminding the public that abandoning animals is a serious offense, punishable by fines up to NT$150,000 under the Animal Protection Act.
Case Details
The Animal Protection Office notes that approximately 80% of these cases involve miniature pigs. Incidents have been reported across various districts, including Sanzhong, Xinzhuang, Wugu, Taishan, Tucheng, Xizhi, Bali, Tamsui, and Shuangxi. These cases range from allowing pigs to roam freely and outright abandonment to the disturbing disposal of pig carcasses. Sadly, even piglets barely a month old are among those being abandoned.
In one instance, a three-month-old miniature pig, weighing 36 kilograms, was found wandering in Xizhi District. The Animal Protection Office took the pig to a shelter, and the owner was later fined NT$3,000 for failing to properly supervise the animal. In another case, a small miniature pig was discovered in Tamsui's Xinbin Park. After failing to locate the owner, the Animal Protection Office successfully found the pig a new home.
Challenges of Miniature Pig Ownership
Miniature pigs are appealing pets due to their charming looks and gentle personalities. However, the Animal Protection Office emphasizes that they are not suitable for every household. These pigs can grow to an average weight of 120 kilograms, sometimes exceeding 200 kilograms. They need considerable living space, specific diets, and dedicated health management. With a lifespan of over 10 years, potential owners must carefully assess their ability to provide appropriate long-term care.
Disease Prevention and Regulations
Veterinarian Li Yu-Yeh from the Animal Protection Office highlights the importance of disease prevention. Taiwan is actively working to prevent African swine fever and eradicate classical swine fever. To minimize the risk of disease transmission through contaminated food waste, pet pig owners are strictly prohibited from feeding their animals kitchen scraps and can only use commercial feed.
Owners must ensure their pigs are properly contained to prevent them from roaming freely. Those who disregard these regulations and allow their pigs to wander may face fines ranging from NT$3,000 to NT$15,000 under the Animal Protection Act. Furthermore, abandoning pigs carries a hefty fine of NT$30,000 to NT$150,000. If a pig is found to be infected with a disease that spreads to others, or if an owner disposes of an infected carcass improperly, they could face a fine of up to NT$1 million under Article 43 of the Animal Infectious Disease Control Act.
