As soaring household bills continue to squeeze family budgets, an increasing number of Britons are turning to an unlikely alternative to traditional pets – pigs.

While dogs remain the nation's favourite companion animal, rising veterinary fees, insurance premiums, grooming costs and pet food bills are prompting some animal lovers to think outside the kennel.

According to industry estimates, the average dog can cost owners around £250 a month once food, insurance, routine healthcare, toys and other essentials are taken into account. Veterinary treatment costs have also risen sharply in recent years, with some emergency procedures running into thousands of pounds.

By contrast, miniature pigs can cost as little as £40 a month to keep, making them an increasingly attractive option for households feeling the pinch.

At Buckinghamshire-based Kew Little Pigs, owner Olivia Mikhail says enquiries for piglets have risen as the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite.

The farm, which specialises in miniature pet pigs, currently has several litters expected this summer and says demand remains strong despite the challenging economic climate.

Olivia said: "We have definitely seen an increase in people looking at pigs as an alternative to dogs. The cost of living is affecting everybody and people are looking very carefully at what they can realistically afford.

"With fuel prices rising again because of the conflict involving Iran, many families are finding that every penny counts. Pigs can be much more affordable to keep than dogs, while still offering companionship, intelligence and personality in abundance.

"People are often surprised when they discover just how trainable pigs are. They can learn to sit, stay, walk on a lead and even take part in agility-style activities."

Indeed, pigs are proving so capable that some are now competing in activities traditionally reserved for dogs.

One devoted owner, Victoria Wiseman, an actor and children's entertainer from Colchester, says she would not swap her pigs Peanut and Basil for anything.

The pair, adopted from Kew Little Pigs, have become beloved members of her family, with Peanut developing an impressive collection of skills.

"I gave up on humans a long time ago," Victoria jokes. "I have found that pigs are so intelligent.

"When I was growing up there were pigs that lived at a property near me, and I loved to go visit them, chat to them and give them little treats.

"There is something about them. I would say they are a cross between a dog and a cat. They can be aloof at times but they are also so affectionate."

Peanut has even taken part in Hoopers, a popular dog sport involving hoops, barrels and tunnels that tests an animal's focus, teamwork and agility.

While dogs traditionally dominate the world of pet training, Victoria says pigs are more than capable of keeping up.
"Pigs are less demanding than dogs, but they still train like a dog," she says.

Peanut has also tackled agility equipment including seesaws, although his increasing size means younger pig Basil is now taking over some of the more energetic activities.

Victoria's love affair with pigs began years before she became an owner. She first contacted Kew Little Pigs four years before bringing home Peanut and her late pig Noodle, ensuring she was fully prepared for the responsibility.

That preparation is something Olivia insists upon for every prospective owner.

Unlike many pets, Kew Little Pigs operates a rigorous screening process before any piglet leaves the farm. Owners pay around £850 for a piglet and must demonstrate they have adequate outdoor space, suitable facilities and a long-term commitment to the animal's welfare.

Prospective owners are also required to complete a comprehensive pig-keeping course and are encouraged to spend time with pigs before making a decision.

"We work incredibly hard to make sure our pigs go to the right homes," Olivia said.

"They are intelligent, sensitive animals and they deserve owners who understand their needs. We won't place a pig unless we are confident the family can provide the right environment.

"Our pig-keeping course covers everything from feeding and healthcare to behaviour and legal requirements."

Those legal requirements include DEFRA regulations governing the movement of pigs. Owners wishing to take their pigs for walks on public land must comply with strict rules, including obtaining the necessary permissions and notifying authorities of walking routes.
For many owners, however, the extra paperwork is a small price to pay for the companionship pigs provide.

Following the death of her beloved pig Noodle from a brain tumour earlier this year, Victoria noticed Peanut showing signs of grief. She subsequently welcomed Basil into the family and the pair quickly formed a close bond.

Now, whether they're tackling Hoopers courses, enjoying a walk or simply relaxing at home, Victoria says she has never regretted her unconventional choice of pet.

"People say, 'Why pigs?' and I say, 'Why not?'" she said.
"A lot of people still don't realise how clever they are. Once you get to know them, they completely win you over."

Find out more at www.kewlittlepigs.com