Bertie always the first to greet us in the mornings 
was terribly excited to see us this morning,
very keen for his breakfast and completely oblivious to his frosty beard
and who can blame him with weather like this.
What with the pig's water being all iced up or even covered in snow most mornings I can't say as I blame them for not being very keen on drinking really, really cold water. Unfortunately due to the fact that they live in a derelict orchard far from an electric supply I'm unable to supply them with warm water, they do of course have fresh water everyday but it is cold, very cold from the oudoor tap. So to make sure that the pigs don't dehydrate (admittedly more of a problem in the summer than winter, but just to be on the safe side), I've taken to giving them a breakfast of well soaked beet.
We feed this to the horses as well and it soaks up lots and lots of water so I can be reasonably confident that everyone is fairly hydrated. This particular type contains molasses and as we all know pigs, like humans, have a sweet tooth so they are enjoying it.
CPH stands for COUNTY PARISH HOLDING and is a number issued by DEFRA that enables them to trace the movement of livestock, pigs, cows, sheep, goats, throughout the country. It is to help prevent the spread of disease and is required by law.
How do I get a CPH number?
To Obtain a CPH Number you must ring the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) Customer Service Centre on 0845 603 7777.
Is it difficult to get a CPH number?
No it's very easy anyone can get one, just phone the Rural Payments Agency, all they want to know is your name, address and the address where the pig (or other livestock) is going to be kept. Give them the details and the number will be sent through the post to you.
Will they want to inspect my home to see if it's suitable for a pig?
No the Rural Payments Agency just issue the numbers noone inspects your premises to see if it is suitable for livestock.
How much does a CPH number cost?
Nothing, it's free.
Snow fell Saturday night and the orchard has remained under it's snowy blanket ever since. Hugo and Florence the Kune Kune's seem unconcerned and carry on their days as usual. Lucy and Bertie the micro pigs do not like the snow and are currently only venturing out of their houses for food.