Yearly vaccinations are recommended for most potbellied pigs and miniature pigs.  There are several vaccines labeled for use in production/farm pigs, and your veterinarian will determine which are appropriate for your individual pet.  Several factors will be considered by your veterinarian, including your geographical area, the age and breeding status of your pig, and potential exposure to other pigs (directly or indirectly).

The most imporant diseases we vaccinate pot-belly pigs against are Erysipelas and Tetanus. Piglets should receive a series of 2 vaccinations. We recommend the first vaccination at about 8 weeks of age, with a booster vaccination 3 weeks later.  Most pigs should then receive vaccinations annually at the time of their yearly wellness exam. Breeding sows need to be vaccinated during pregnancy to reduce the risk of disease for the piglets.

There is no rabies vaccine labeled for pigs, and no vaccine for rabies has been tested for effectiveness or safety in potbellied pigs.  We don't recommend vaccinating pet pigs for rabies at this time.  If you live in a highly endemic area, where risk of exposure to rabies is known to be high, please discuss your options with your veterinarian.

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic (transmissible to humans) bacterial disease which can affect pigs and other pets.  Occurrence is rare in Arizona, so we do not currently recommend the Leptospirosis vaccine for pigs in our area.  Your veterinarian may recommend vaccinating your pig for Leptospirosis if you live in an area where it is a concern.

Common side effects of receiving a vaccination include lethargy, pain at the injection site, or a slight fever.  These symptoms usually resolve within 24 hours.  A dose of an NSAID may be recommended for your pig to relieve discomfort.  Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction to a vaccine, is rare in pigs, typically occurring within 30 minutes of receiving a vaccination.   If your pig develops diarrhea, trouble breathing, red patches or bumps on the skin after receiving a vaccination, seek veterinary treatment immediately.