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Author(s): T.D. Parsons
Publication Date: June 10, 2013
Reference: Advances in Pork Production, Volume 24, 2013
Country: Canada

Summary:

As the end of gestation stalls seems to be occurring, it is important to consider different setup options and management needs. Gestation stalls were initially used to ensure individual animals received nutrition and care, and to avoid negative social interactions. One thing to consider when switching to group housing is group size. Small groups can be best if similar age and size sows are together, whereas large groups can avoid strict social hierarchy from occurring. Group structure can be static or dynamic. Static structure is all-in all-out and may not utilize space efficiently, and dynamic structure utilizes space, but works better in a large group without social hierarchy. The timing of formation of the group can be pre-implantation, and will result in most of the gestating sows housed in groups. Post-implantation minimizes the effect of negative social interactions on pregnancy, and results in fewer sows being in groups at any one time. Feeding system has a large impact on competition between sows, and can result in varying body conditions if the non-dominant sows are not able to eat their full amount. Systems that can be used include floor feeding with or without stalls, trickle feeding, cafeteria style, free access stalls, or electronic sow feeding (ESF). Electronic sow feeding has a lot of potential since it will allow individual sow nutrition to be determined. Some considerations to have if switching to ESF include parity segregation, group structure, timing, pen design, training both of sows and stockpeople, and how to provide individual animal care. ESF can be an effective feeding system in group housing, but retraining and proper management are essential for its success.

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