How Much To: Buy A Pig

Old Man Miller leaned against the wooden gate of the weaning pen, a piece of straw tucked into the corner of his mouth. He watched the boy watch the pigs.

Miller spat out the straw and gestured toward the muddy, squealing crowd. "Well now, Leo, that depends on what kind of life you’re looking to manage. You see those little ones there? The weaners? You can take one of those home for about $50 to $150. They’re cheap to start, but they’ll eat you out of house and home before they’re done growing." how much to buy a pig

Leo nodded, his eyes fixed on a spotted piglet that was currently trying to climb over its sibling’s back. Old Man Miller leaned against the wooden gate

Leo opened his wallet. He had exactly two hundred and forty dollars. It was enough for a feeder, but he’d have nothing left for the high-quality grain Miller recommended. "Well now, Leo, that depends on what kind

"I’ll take the spotted weaner," Leo said, pulling out a hundred-dollar bill. "The $100 one. That way I can afford the best feed you’ve got. I'm not just buying a pig, Mr. Miller. I'm buying the blue ribbon."

Miller smiled, unlatching the gate. "Smart move, kid. A cheap pig with expensive care beats an expensive pig with no dinner every time."

"How much to buy a pig, Mr. Miller?" Leo asked, his voice steady despite the flutter in his chest.