Behavioural Consideration in Animal Transport Design

Both genetics and previous experience will affect the ease of handling of pigs. Piglets that have never walked on concrete may balk and be difficult to move. Moving the animals will be easier if they are given an opportunity to explore the new floor surface prior to being driven over it.

The producer should walk through both grower and finishing pens to teach the pigs to quietly get up and flow around him. Pigs differentiate between a person in the aisle and a person in their pens. British researchers have reported that pigs from certain farms are more difficult to drive. Others report that pigs which have been walked in the aisles during finishing will be easier to drive. Moving the pigs out of the finishing pens a month prior to slaughter also improved their willingness to move.

One of the most important factors which determines if a pig is fit for transport is the condition of the pig that is loaded onto the truck. Sows should be marketed when they are still fit for travel. The National Pork Board advises that sows and pigs that are unable to walk should be euthanized on the farm. Stressor pigs which have temporarily become non-ambulatory must be allowed to recover before they are put on a truck. A combination of genetic selection for leaner pigs and poor management has resulted in increased sow mortality. Producers need to select sound animals with good feet and legs. The author has observed that some sows are lame due to poor leg conformation. Lame animals are more likely to go down and become nonambulatory.

Conclusion

To maintain an adequate level of animal welfare during transport requires having a fit animal that is carefully managed and handled.

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