Pork Insight Articles

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Author(s): P. Gill
Publication Date: April 3, 2007
Reference: London Swine Conference, 2007
Country: Canada

Summary:

Reaching 30 pigs weaned/sow/year (PSY) remains a goal of many producers, and is used as a comparison number between pig producing countries. It can be achieved through many strategies, but the basics are to have healthy, fertile sows, proper insemination, reduced non-productive days, and high weaning rates. Of all the variables involved in PSY, the length of weaning to conception to first oestrus usually has potential for reduction. By maintaining sow weight throughout lactation sows can be bred sooner, and have more success in their next pregnancy. Although little change has been made to the general sow reproductive cycle, the knowledge of the timing has improved which can aid technicians in knowing when to breed. Ensuring successful insemination relies on proper technician training, and proper storage of viable semen. Non-productive days can be minimized by keeping sows healthy and in good body condition, detecting heat, and aggressive culling strategies. The number weaned can be increased by increasing litter size through genetics, or by reducing pre-weaning mortality. Reducing pre-weaning mortality can be helped by providing proper nutrition and temperature control, and by intervening when necessary. Herd health through maintain strict biosecurity is important because a disease outbreak can greatly reduce PSY, and can take a significant amount of time to recover from. Climate change can have an impact on PSY as hotter conditions tend to reduce productivity. This is especially true for sows housed outdoors. Through proper management the 30 PSY goal is achievable for individual producers, and is expected to be reached by a country average in the future.

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