Sow Housing
Alternative farrowing options in the swine industry
Publish Date: May 6, 2015
Over the past decade there has been increased awareness from the public on animal welfare issues related to commercial swine. More specifically, in the United States, much time and discussion has focused on housing conditions of sows during farrowing and lactation. Restricted sow movement in the traditional farrowing stall has been identified as a significant concern with growing pressure towards the elimination of this system. Recognizing changes in consumer demand and the desire to improve sow welfare by meeting her biological needs during farrowing, alternative farrowing options need to be assessed. The purpose of this factsheet is to identify alternative farrowing options and discuss the impacts of these facilities on the biological needs of the sow, piglet welfare and impact on worker safety, efficiency and labor costs.
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Confinement Sow Gestation and Boar Housing
Publish Date: June 3, 2006
A major concern in a swine production system is proper management of the pregnant sow. In the past, sows usually have been sheltered in open-front buildings, barns or portable houses on pasture or dry lot. Only a relatively small percentage of breeding herds have been continuously confined.
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Sow Housing Options for Gestation
Publish Date: June 3, 2006
Housing for gestating sows is very important to promote productivity, longevity and welfare of sows. There are many options for the housing of sows which must adhere to environmental needs, space and animal movement considerations, and feeding and watering systems. This fact sheet focuses specifically on those needs and then describes a variety of housing.
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Economics of Gestation Housing
Publish Date: June 3, 2006
The economics of various methods for housing gestating sow has received very little attention by the pork industry. The most common method for housing gestating sows is indoors in individual stalls. The major reasons for using individual gestation stalls are: (1) a worker can more easily manage a larger number of sows with respect to…
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