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Pigs

Guidance for farmers

Plain English guides on all aspects of farming, from animal welfare to the Single Payment Scheme, are available on the Business Link website.

Guidance for smallholders

If you’re thinking of keeping pigs in your garden, you’ll find support and practical advice at Directgov.

Keeping pigs

Before you move pigs onto your land, you will need a county parish holding (CPH) number. This is an identification number for the land and buildings where your pigs will be kept. To apply for a CPH number, contact the Rural Payments Agency on 0845 603 7777. This applies anyone keeping pigs.

Pigs ID and movements

There are rules about the movements of pigs you must follow; these help to prevent the spread or outbreak of animal diseases. You need a licence and a particular form whenever pigs are moved from one place to another, including bringing them to your land.

Welfare

The way we treat animals is an important reflection of the values of our society. This means we all have a stake in improving the national level of animal health and welfare.

Health and diseases

Disease outbreaks and the measures to control them can have a huge impact on public health, the economy and the environment. Monitoring animals for signs of disease, and following good farming practices are essential ways of reducing the risk of disease and preventing the spread of disease.

Good hygiene practice can keep new disease away from your herd.

Publications

Page last modified: 17 April 2012