Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Your Piglets with the AKKPS

How to register AKKPS piglets, including litter notification, required details, and DNA notes.

Registering your Kunekune piglets with the American Kunekune Pig Society (AKKPS) not only recognizes their lineage but also requires the submission of DNA samples. This guide will help you navigate the process, noting that all steps can be completed online and that registration is free, aside from the cost of DNA testing.

Step 1: Submit a Litter Notification

Before registering your piglets, you must submit a litter notification to the AKKPS. This can be done online through the AKKPS website. This step is essential as it informs the society of the birth of your piglets and the details of the litter.

Step 2: Verify Eligibility

Ensure your piglets are eligible for registration by confirming that they are purebred Kunekune pigs from registered parents. Check the lineage documents if available.

Step 3: Gather Required Information

You will need the following information for each piglet:

Name of the piglet (must follow AKKPS naming conventions)
Birthdate
Gender
Markings and color patterns
Sire’s (father’s) registration number
Dam’s (mother’s) registration number

Step 4: Collect DNA Samples

Since DNA submission is a requirement for registration:

Collect a minimum of 15 hairs from each piglet, ensuring that the hairs have roots attached. This is crucial for accurate DNA analysis.

Step 5: Submit DNA Samples Online

All information for the UCDavis DNA analysis can be submitted online. After collecting the required hair samples, you will use the UCDavis portal to upload the necessary details related to the DNA submission. Make sure to follow the instructions for packaging and submitting the hair samples as per UCDavis guidelines. Note that only the DNA testing will have a cost associated with it.

Step 6: Fill Out the Online Registration Form

Complete the online registration form for each piglet on the AKKPS website. Make sure that all information is accurate and corresponds with the details from the litter notification. Registration is free, so there will be no fees incurred for this step.

Step 7: Prepare Payment for DNA Testing

Check the costs associated with the UCDavis DNA testing. Payments for testing will be handled directly through the UCDavis portal. Make sure to complete this step while submitting your DNA samples.

Step 8: Submit Your Registration Application

Once you have completed the online registration forms, submit your application through the AKKPS website. Confirm that all information is correct to prevent processing delays.

Step 9: Await Confirmation

After submitting your application, wait for confirmation from the AKKPS. You will receive a registration certificate for each of your piglets once processing is complete and the DNA samples have been analyzed.

Step 10: Keep Records

Once your piglets are registered and the DNA samples have been processed, keep copies of their registration certificates and any DNA-related documentation in a safe place. This information is important for future breeding and participation in events.

Step 11: Connect with the AKKPS Community

Consider joining the AKKPS forums or social media groups to connect with other Kunekune pig owners. This community can provide invaluable support, advice, and opportunities to share experiences.

Conclusion

Registering your piglets with the AKKPS now involves a straightforward online process, including the required submission of DNA hair samples. Aside from the cost of DNA testing, registration is free. By following these steps, you will ensure your Kunekune pigs are officially recognized and that you are verifying their genetic health. Happy pig raising!

About the Author

BF Farm raises registered Kunekune pigs with attention to temperament, structure, bloodlines, and long-term breed quality. Our articles are based on real experience with breeding decisions, farrowing, piglet care, buyer education, and helping families choose Kunekunes that fit their farm or homestead.