https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/8-lessons-i-learned-from-temple-grandin

In this deeply insightful episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn shares the lessons that have shaped her understanding of pig behavior, pig emotions, and what it truly means to care for them well—through the lens of pioneering animal behaviorist Temple Grandin.
Drawing from Grandin's influential work in animal welfare and livestock handling, Autumn breaks down eight powerful principles that every pig parent can apply at home. These lessons reveal how pigs think, how they perceive the world, and how small changes in their environment and handling can dramatically improve their confidence, comfort, and behavior.

Listeners will learn:

• Why pigs "think in pictures," and how sensory details—shadows, reflections, dangling objects—can startle or overwhelm them.

• How understanding the flight zone and point of balance can reduce stress and build trust during interactions or training.

• The importance of eliminating visual distractions and creating calm, predictable environments.

• How gradual acclimation can transform fearful behaviors into confident exploration (including Autumn's personal ramp-training breakthrough!).

• Why the caretaker's attitude, consistency, and presence are the core of good pig welfare.

• How genetics and temperament play a meaningful role in a pig's behavior and stress response.

• Why enrichment isn't optional—pigs require rooting, exploring, and mental stimulation to truly thrive.

• And finally, how empathy, patience, and understanding a pig's inner world are essential to building a strong, healthy relationship.
Autumn also reflects on the difference between livestock and pets, emphasizing that ethical treatment is a universal responsibility. No matter a pig's role, their emotional experience matters. This episode is perfect for anyone who wants to better understand their pig, improve training success, reduce fear-based behaviors, and deepen their bond.

Autumn's Links:

Website:

https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/

Email:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs

Educational Membership Group:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group

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https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/

Facebook:

HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs

Free Community:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community

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https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA

Stan Store:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs

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https://www.piggear.com/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/piggear

https://joyofpigs.co/porcine-home/

https://www.amazon.com/Adjustable-Harness-Metal-Front-Buckle/dp/B071J9GPX8

In this episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn answers a very common question pig parents have—how do I leash train my pig! Walking your pig can be one of the most rewarding (and sometimes frustrating) parts of pig ownership, and Autumn breaks it all down step by step.

You'll learn the difference between harness training and leash training, how to choose the right harness, and what to expect when your pig experiences that strange new feeling of being on a leash for the first time. Autumn also shares her favorite harness brands, tips for introducing your pig to the leash slowly and positively, and a simple reward-based method to build confidence and trust.

Whether you're starting with a young piglet or helping an older pig get used to walking, this episode will give you the tools and patience to turn leash time into one of your pig's favorite activities.

Key takeaways:

• Don't rush the process—comfort comes before control.

• Always use positive reinforcement (treats like Cheerios work wonders!).

• Make every training session a positive experience for your pig.

Autumn's Links:

Website:

https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/

Email:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs

Educational Membership Group:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/

Facebook:

HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs

Free Community:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA

Stan Store:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs

Newsletter:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs

www.burrennaturesanctuary.ie

In this heartwarming episode of The Pet Pig Podcast, Autumn speaks with Mary from Burren Nature Sanctuary ( Kinvara, Co Galway, Ireland). Mary shares her inspiring journey from growing up in London to running a 50-acre conservation farm on Ireland's west coast — a place where people reconnect with nature through joyful experiences with animals, especially pigs.

Mary introduces listeners to Amelia, her beloved Juliana pig who leads woodland walks that have become one of Ireland's most unique and beloved eco-tourism experiences. Amelia has even been featured on the news, earned hundreds of 5-star Airbnb reviews, and helped countless visitors — including children overcoming fears — discover the healing magic of pigs and nature.

Together, Autumn and Mary discuss the emotional and therapeutic power of spending time with pigs, how animals help people relax and reconnect, and the importance of teaching healthy boundaries through animal interactions. Listeners will also hear touching rescue stories!

This conversation is filled with laughter, learning, and shared passion for conservation, enrichment, and the joy pigs bring into people's lives. It's a celebration of nature, compassion, and connection!

Autumn's Links:

Website:

https://www.autumnacresminipetpigs.com/

Email:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs

Educational Membership Group:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-educational-membership-group

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/autumnacresminipetpigs/

Facebook:

HTTP://Facebook.com/autumnacresminipetpigs

Free Community:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs/p/autumn-acres-free-community

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/channel/UCGue5Kp5AwOXkReCGPUyImA

Stan Store:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs

Newsletter:

https://stan.store/autumnacresminipetpigs