Executive Summary
This document provides a comprehensive analysis of managing housing and stocking density to optimize health, welfare, and production in pig herds. It covers various aspects including welfare and sustainability issues, fundamental housing requirements, behavioral traits, potential indicators for housing assessment, specific housing needs for different pig categories, and biosecurity measures. The document also discusses the importance of stockmanship and future trends in pig production.
Types and Examples
•Fundamental Housing Requirements: Includes climate control, ventilation, pen design, group size, feed systems, and flooring.
•Specific Housing Requirements: Differentiates needs for sows, suckling piglets, nursery pigs, and fattening pigs.
•Behavioral Traits: Considers natural behaviors such as foraging, social interactions, and resting.
Benefits
•Improved Welfare: Enhanced living conditions lead to better health and reduced stress.
•Increased Productivity: Optimal housing and management practices improve growth rates and feed efficiency.
•Environmental Sustainability: Adoption of eco-friendly practices reduces emissions and resource use.
Challenges and Risks
•Economic Costs: Implementing new housing systems and biosecurity measures can be expensive.
•Disease Management: Higher risk of disease transmission in extensive systems and during extreme weather events.
•Regulatory Compliance: Meeting diverse and stringent regulations across different regions.
Where to Go Next
•Further Information: EU Farm-to-Fork Strategy, One Health Action Plan against AMR, and various national and international resources on pig welfare and sustainable farming practices.
•Innovative Projects: EU Pig Innovation Group and other thematic networks supporting innovative practices in pig production.