Failed bonding

[Jude]

Sadly, Prim and Pumpkin did not get along when I introduced them. It looked like it was ok for a bit but then Pumpkin kept pushing, getting into Prim’s space and eventually they were rolling around. Managed to separate them. Prim was really shook up - she has a small cut on her nose. She is fine now thankfully.

I think we will leave Prim on her own now (she is 8) - I don’t want to put her through that again. As Pumpkin is a foster pig, she will probably go back which is a shame as she is gorgeous and very cuddly. But I think she is too dominant for Prim who has always been boss pig.

 

[Wiebke]

Sadly, Prim and Pumpkin did not get along when I introduced them. It looked like it was ok for a bit but then Pumpkin kept pushing, getting into Prim’s space and eventually they were rolling around. Managed to separate them. Prim was really shook up - she has a small cut on her nose. She is fine now thankfully.

I think we will leave Prim on her own now (she is 8) - I don’t want to put her through that again. As Pumpkin is a foster pig, she will probably go back which is a shame as she is gorgeous and very cuddly. But I think she is too dominant for Prim who has always been boss pig.

I am very sorry; poor Prim!

Please separate promptly once you notice that things are going in the wrong direction. If the wrong set of signals are exchanged, the situation can escalate very quickly and piggies that are already on edge can over-react.

 

[Jude]

I am very sorry; poor Prim!

Please separate promptly once you notice that things are going in the wrong direction. If the wrong set of signals are exchanged, the situation can escalate very quickly and piggies that are already on edge can over-react.

Yes, I blame myself and should have realised that Prim was not interested. I now realise Pumpkin is a feisty girl and perhaps that’s why she ended up in her own in the first place.
Lesson learnt and hopefully Pumpkin can be matched with a suitable companion.

 

[Wiebke]

Yes, I blame myself and should have realised that Prim was not interested. I now realise Pumpkin is a feisty girl and perhaps that’s why she ended up in her own in the first place.
Lesson learnt and hopefully Pumpkin can be matched with a suitable companion.

Please don't blame yourself too much. I have learned most of what know from my own mistakes and from failed bondings of my own.

It takes quite a bit of practice and experience to read the often very subtle signs and body language to be able to anticipate events. That is not something you can just pick up from watching a few videos; every bonding is unique and different and often quite nerve-racking.

Prim will recover but it is highly likely that she won't be willing to accept another piggy except as a neighbour through the grids. Perhaps the rescue has got another unbondable oldie or a pair for you to foster in this capacity instead?