Dr. Gunther observes, that "the robust constitution of the pig causes it
to be less liable to fall sick than oxen and sheep. It would be still
less liable to disease, if persons manifested more judgment in the
choice of the animals to be reared, and if more care were shown in the
matter. With reference to the latter point, it is very true that the
voracity of the pig urges it to eat every thing it meets; but to keep it
in a state of health, it is, notwithstanding, necessary to restrict its
regimen to certain rules. The animal which it is proposed to fatten
should remain under the roof, and receive good food there, whilst the
others may be sent out for the greater part of the year, care being
taken to avoid fields that are damp and marshy, and that the pigs be
preserved from the dew. It is also of importance that they should not be
driven too hard during warm days.
"There are two other points which deserve to be taken into
consideration, if we wish swine to thrive: these are, daily exercise in
the open air whenever the weather permits, and cleanliness in the sty.
Constant confinement throws them into what may be called a morbid state,
which renders their flesh less wholesome for man. The manner in which
the animal evinces its joy when set at liberty proves sufficiently how
disagreeable confinement is to it. A very general prejudice prevails,
viz., that dung and filth do not injure swine; this opinion, however, is
absurd."