This archive report was first published on 14 August 2019.
Published on August 14, 2019, piglet management is crucial to ensure the health and well-being of young pigs. Weaning can be a stressful event for piglets, but with proper handling and care, the chances of costly events during their growth can be minimized.
When handling piglets, it's essential to remember that they are only babies and should be treated with care. One of the most common mistakes made when handling piglets is picking them up by their front legs, which can damage their shoulder. Instead, it's recommended to pick them up by both of their back legs or, if necessary, by one leg while supporting the chest to take any strain off their leg joints.
Another critical aspect of piglet management is movement and treatment. When moving piglets, it's essential to use a clean, disinfected trolley with bedding to prevent the spread of diseases. The choice of treatments used can also have a significant impact on the amount of stress the piglets are subjected to. Choosing a one-shot combined vaccination can reduce the extent of handling time and the number of injections each pig receives, minimizing the risk of injection reactions and abscess formation.
By following these tips, pig farmers can minimize piglet stress at weaning and reduce the chances of costly events during their growth. Proper piglet management is essential to ensure the health and well-being of young pigs.
