When I let my potbellied pig out, she has to step off the deck several inches to an area that is often muddy. I need something to put there to make it easier for her to get on/off the deck. I was thinking of one of those metal grate type things, but I wasn't sure if her hooves could get stuck. I found these on Amazon but not sure they would work. Do you guys have any suggestions? I'm not sure if there is something commonly used for livestock that is inexpensive. It would need to be about 2 1/2 - 3 x 2 feet. She is about 170-180 pounds. Even some kind of small, non slip ramp would work.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E3Z4RUQ/_encoding=UTF8?coliid=I2L4YOE8OE29EY&colid=M07ESUTUOR72

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0150MDV0I/_encoding=UTF8?coliid=I1AGP677VFYBOP&colid=M07ESUTUOR72

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H3RMBGS/_encoding=UTF8?coliid=I19V2GX1Z27X2Y&colid=M07ESUTUOR72

get the one with the smallest holes possible........I would think as long as it wasnt a metal grate you would be fine.

Maybe something like
this.

http://www.hogslat.com/polypropylene-swine-flooring

I would line a border with some pavers (bricks), put down geotech fabric under, then fill with pea gravel. Pretty simple and cheap project.

Like this, but would be a small rectangle.

More info here

You really think now is the best time to kill my potty trained food source? Those shaved off strips sure won't heal over if she's dead. Be smart about it.

Those are good ideas! Thanks!

What Magnum said, but instead of pea gravel, I would use decomposed granite because it is compactable, stays in place, easier to maintain and you can sweep it clean.

Would it drain well? My water spigot is right there and part of the reason it's muddy.

ellebee said:

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Would it drain well? My water spigot is right there and part of the reason it's muddy.

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Yes, it drains great. You might have a little standing water if the ground is saturated after a heavy rain, but it goes away quickly. Trick is to layer it 4" deep or more, and pack it down. It holds up almost as well as pavers.

Thanks!

ellebee said:

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Would it drain well? My water spigot is right there and part of the reason it's muddy.

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Sounds like this is primarily a plumbing project, ie move the spigot.

The main thing I want to address is to shorten the distance she has to step, whether there is mud or not. The mud issue is secondary and whatever I use just needs to be able to drain.

Sorry, couldn't help myself when I saw those two threads side by side!

Old Town Ag said:

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Sorry, couldn't help myself when I saw those two threads side by side!

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I would've been disappointed in the OB if there were no comments about killing an/or eating her.

I'm sure you've complied before, but I think if you start a thread about your pet pig you're obligated to the first rule....

https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/anti-fatigue-interlocking-mat

88planoAg said:

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I'm sure you've complied before, but I think if you start a thread about your pet pig you're obligated to the first rule....

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Updated pictures of Dahlia, please!

Oh that might be a good option. Thanks!

Baby Dahlia!!




Lubed up with sunscreen (or is it bacon grease?) after blowing her coat.