News - Prairie Swine Centre

A preliminary analysis of the risk factors for weaned piglets during transport suggests trailer type, distance travelled and temperature are among the key factors that will influence death loss during transport.

New swine transport trailer design guidelines under development by the Prairie Swine Centre are expected to help improve the cleanability, safety and animal welfare aspects of equipment used to transport pigs.

Research conducted at the Prairie Swine Centre indicates the offspring of higher parity or older stall housed sows have a higher rate of survival when those sows receive regular exercise.

A research Scientist with the Prairie Swine Centre says understanding the behavioral motivations of the sow will enhance success in group housing systems.

Research underway at institutions and on highways across eastern and western Canada will help swine transporters reduce the level of stress on pigs during transport.

Research aimed at improving transport trailer design is expected to improve animal welfare and reduce losses associated with transport.

An engineer with the Prairie Swine Centre says the materials from which swine transport trailers are made, the roughness of their surfaces and the presence of gaps, nooks and crannies will play a role in their cleanability.

Scientists working in partnership with Swine Innovation Porc are looking to identify the management practices that will improve the productivity of sows housed in groups and improve the vitality and health of their piglets.

A swine nutritionist with the Prairie Swine Centre says giving the weaned pig the best possible start will result in higher productivity through it’s entire development.

A research scientist with the Prairie Swine Centre says the size of the group can effect the level of aggression demonstrated by gestating sows.