Jiglu: Farmtalking: Discussion: RE: Tools for Maintaining Pig Health

Originally from: Mike

I was horrified to see that the livestock health equipment company that Burkie recommended is only selling wire-noose pig restrainers. I think these should be banned – they do so much damage to the snout, leaving wounds that easily get infected – risking carcase abscesses, joint infections and meningitis.

It is also so much harder to catch a pig next time if you traumatise it this time! In the case of blood sampling, excessive stress can affect the blood analysis results.

Much better are the humane pig catchers that use a rope snare. The rope can be dipped in disinfectant between pens. Unfortunately they are more expensive, but we have one coming up for auction later this week.

These tools are brilliant for

For photos of this more welfare friendly instrument and a description of its use, see..

www.pighealth.com/offers/item/equipment.htm

Mike