1. What do you look for in a piggy? Do you prefer the ones that are running all over the place or the shy ones?
One of each
2. For those who have had females and males.. do you see a difference in character between the two?
Not something that is definate. My girls are hyper and my boy is more layed back, but it is not always this way. It depends on the pig.
3. Do you prefer a younger one (months vs.)than an older one(years)? I ask this because I would think that the younger ones would be easier to tame vs the older ones who hardly got any affection. Opinions please?
I have (2) 1 year old pigs and (2) 3 year old pigs. The male 3 year old is the calmest.. Followed by one of the 1 year olds, than the other 3 year old, and finally my hyper alpha girl (also 1 year). It really depends. The more time you spend with the, the better. Age is just a number, really.
4. Do you touch their fur and their skin for any skin problem? What are the common symptoms for skin problems?
Any new pet that you get should see a vet. Even small animals such as guinea pigs, hamster, rats, etc.. A vet will be able to tell you any problem he/she has. Veggies with high-vit c will help keep them healthy.
5. Does the shelter give you a cage of some sort to bring home your piggies in? Or should we have a cage for the ride home?
Some do, but you should still have your own for vet trips and emergency evacuation situations.
6. Long distance shelters/rescues... whats the furthest (miles?) you have traveled to pick up your piggie from a shelter.
We recently traveled 4 hrs (one way) to pick up Divinci and Do.