Behaviour of Pigs in Large Group Auto-Sort
A concern for having larger groups of pigs together is a possible rise in aggressive behaviours, however previous research shows the aggression levels are similar in small and large groups. Eating behaviour may change, especially as new technology such as large group auto-sort (LGAS) systems...
Free Space Utilization of Sows in Free Access Stalls
Group housing systems can produce more active and social sows, leading to a healthier pigs. It will increase muscle strength and decrease lameness with stronger bones from the ability to move around. An example of a group housing system is free access stalls. The degree...
Comparative Evaluation of Infrared Radiant and Forced-air Convection Heating Systems for Hog Barns
Heating costs in pig production rooms can be expensive. A gas-fired infrared radiant heating system was compared to a conventional forced-air convection heater, which heats the air by the ceiling that is then moved with fans. Heat is transmitted to the surfaces with a radiant...
Nutritional Value Of Flaxseed For Swine and Its Effects On Carcass Fatty Acid Profile
Western Canada is the worlds largest producer of flaxseed. Flaxseed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Using flaxseed in swine diets could be a low-cost feeding protocol that enriches the carcass with omega-3. It is comparable to canola meal other than its low lysine...
The Plant Extract Micro-Aid‚ has Unexpected Effects on Litter Size
Micro-Aid® helps reduce ammonia emission and odours from livestock production facilities and is a natural plant extract. When sows are fed Micro-Aid®, their colostrum has increased levels of immunoglobulins. This may help piglets gain weight. The impact on their piglets is that litter size increased...
Feeding the 2009 Crop
Western Canadian Prairies had a late harvest due to a wet and cold spring delaying sprouting and seeding. A prediction of immature, sprouted or frozen grain is expected which may lower the overall cost for swine producers feed. Grain provide amino acids, protein and energy....
Ractopamine Hydrochloride and the Environmental Sustainability of Pork Production
Ammonia has odour and environmental implications so the excretion of nitrogen is problematic as this is the main form. Paylean® with ractopamine hydrochloride as its active ingredient improves average daily gain, carcass lean growth and feed efficiency when added to finishing swine diets. Ractopamine may...
Transportation of Pigs in Western Canada: Temperatures Within Trucks During Winter and Summer Months
One of the major stressors to pigs is transportation as it involves physical exertion, an unfamiliar environment and psychological and social stress. Death losses occur and are of higher incidence in the summer months. Temperatures vary in seasons and also in the compartments of the...
Net Energy Content of Canola Meal and Full-Fat Canola Seeds in Swine
Canola meal is often outcompeted with other protein sources as it is perceived to be a poor energy source due to its high protein and fibre content and low oil and starch content. Full-fat canola seeds have a higher oil content and therefore may have...
Evaluating Energy Usage and Various Energy Conservation Strategies for Swine Barns
In temperate regions like Canada, swine production requires substantial energy input. Costs for energy have been rising so that now, utilities are the third greatest expense. Energy conservation measures were examined to look at possible cost reductions. Each barn varies greatly in energy consumption. By...