03/09/2026
Rosie got delivered to our breeder yesterday to get ready for her big day. She’s due March 18th, but by the way she’s hanging low, we’re thinking these piglets might decide to come a little early.
I’ll be honest, seeing her in a farrowing pen tugs at my heart. Rosie spends about 90% of her life running, rooting, and playing in a big pasture with tons of space to just be a pig. This is the same barn where she was born, though, and she walked in calm as can be—like she knew the routine and why she was here.Farrowing pens are used for a short, very specific season: birth and nursing. They’re designed to greatly reduce the risk of piglets being accidentally laid on or crushed while they’re tiny and still figuring out how to move and nurse safely. For about 3 weeks, this setup gives Rosie and her babies a clean, controlled space so everyone gets the best start possible.
After that, she’ll be right back to her wide‑open, pasture lifestyle.When you look at it across her whole life, 3 weeks is a small trade‑off for healthier babies and a safer delivery for Rosie. Our daughter said it best: “Mommy, this is what is best for her and her piglets. It helps decrease loss and helps her bond.” Sometimes good stewardship on the farm means making choices that are a little hard on our hearts, but are ultimately best for the animals we love.
We are praying that Rosie will show signs early enough that Avery will be able to be present for the births. She is only a little excited!! We had puppies on my birthday and she is praying for piglets on hers!
