Speak Up: Responses on pet pigs

A new regulation gives owners of potbellied pigs until Aug. 12 to apply for an invasive animal permit with the Delaware Department of Agriculture. Nonnative to Delaware, escaped or abandoned pet porkers can become nuisances. They reproduce early, become feral and can contract contagious and infectious diseases that can spread to people and other animals. What’s it like keeping a pet potbellied pig?

• This is a shame! It is discrimination and unfair to the farmers and agriculture people. The governor needs to veto this. — Ruth Hamilton
• It’s nothing but a taxation. What can we tax next? — Jeff Grzeszczak
• Thirty years ago, we had a small farm. We got a potbellied pig. It was a rescue, to be put down at 6 months. It was hidden in the dorms of some students. We had a big pen for him. He was neutered. He had a pool , mud pit. Lived for 12 years. Had a great outside life but, after his passing, never got another. He also had excellent vet care and all vaccines. — Denise Sloboda Deskiewicz
• You are a great example, then, of how these pigs should be raised. Unfortunately, there are awful people out there who breed them, can’t sell them, so they let them loose. This is a needed move by the state to protect Delaware’s swine industry. — Amanda Fabi
• Got those permits going out for duck, chickens, goats, sheep, llamas, emus, etc.? Seems most are not native to the First State. — Delmarva German Shepherd Dog Club