Need info regarding raising pigs :=)

We're thinking about getting three little pigs to raise for meat, so I have a few questions and would appreciate any help or wisdom you may care to share with me...

1. Where is the best place to find out: what their needs are, what has to be done for them, what they eat, what equipment is needed, etc.?

2. Is there a good book, or a good website, on raising pigs??

3. What breed of pig is best for meat? What's the difference between breeds of pigs?

4. Do you know of any other great books or websites on raising other farm animals?

Thanks for your help!!
:) Glenda

Try googling Storey's books. They have guides for nearly every animal. Good luck with the pigs.

Thanks Cajun! I went right out to Tractor Supply and bought Storey's book on raising pigs. While there, I also found out that (at this time) it is cheaper to buy a full grown pig at the stock sale and drive it directly to the processor than to raise your own and buying hog feed. But I will keep an eye on the market here in Michigan, and if the price goes back up to where it's cost effective to raise your own, I be good to go!

I appreciate your help!
:) Glenda

You are welcome. It's the same here with the prices. We are thinking of buying us a pig and taking it to the processor. With the price of feed it's the only way to come out ahead. I know about feed prices. We have 11 horses. LOL

Glenda, there are a couple of things you should consider before buying a full grown pig and butchering it.
Has the animal ever been sick and given antibiotics.
What has the animal been fed: good wholesome foods or slop. Pigs are like people feed them fatty processed food(donuts, breads ect) and they end up with alot of fat on them.

We only feed our pigs non-medicated feed and vegetables from our garden-it is the best tasting pork you can find!

hope this helps :-)

Sue