| Description | Codes of Recomendations for the welfare of Pigs |
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| ISBN | 0 7559 1177 |
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| Official Print Publication Date | |
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| Website Publication Date | July 18, 2005 |
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NOTE
This Code is produced in terms of Section 3 of the
Agriculture (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1968 (1968
c.34).
This Section allows the Scottish Ministers, after
consultation, to prepare codes of recommendations for the
welfare of livestock.
This Code was laid before Parliament as is required
by Section 3 of the above Act.
The power to produce these codes was transferred to
the Scottish Ministers by virtue of Section 53 of the
Scotland Act 1998 (1998 c.46).
Any reference in this Code to advisory publications
is for information only and does not form part of this
Code.
contents
Preface
Introduction
SECTION 1 - RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ALL PIGS
Stockmanship
General
Inspection
Handling
Transport off-farm
Marking
Health
General
Biosecurity
Condition scoring
Lameness
External parasites
Internal parasites
Equipment for vaccination and treatment
Notifiable diseases
Sick and injured animals
Record keeping
Accommodation
General
Floors
Ventilation and temperature
Lighting and noise levels
Automated and mechanical equipment
Fire and other emergency precautions
Feed, Water and other
Substances
Management
General
Environmental enrichment
Castration
Tail docking
Teeth clipping/grinding
Natural service
Artificial insemination, vasectomy and
electro-ejaculation
SECTION 2 - SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS
Farrowing sows and piglets
Weaners and rearing pigs
Dry sows and gilts
Boars
Pigs kept in outdoor husbandry
systems
General
Biosecurity
Accommodation
Feed and water
Fences
Farrowing sows and piglets
Nose ringing
Appendix
Useful publications
APublications related to pig
welfare
B Legislation related to pig
welfare
preface
This preface is not part of the Code, but is intended to
explain its purpose and to indicate the broad
considerations upon which it is based. Similarly, the
legislation quoted in the boxes throughout the document is
not part of the Code but is intended to highlight the
relevant legal requirements. The law, as quoted in these
boxes, is that in force on the date of publication or
reprinting of the Code (please turn to the back cover for
this inf\ormation). You should be aware that any of the
legal requirements quoted might be subject to change - you
should seek confirmation before assuming that these are an
accurate statement of the law currently in force. (
See the Appendix for a list of
relevant legislation.)
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442),
Regulation 10, provides that: - Any person who employs or engages a
person to attend to animals must ensure
that the person attending to the
animals:
- is acquainted with the provisions of
all relevant Statutory Welfare Codes
relating to the animals being attended
to;
- has access to a copy of those Codes
while he is attending to the animals;
and
- has received instruction and guidance
on those Codes.
|
- Any person who keeps animals, or who
causes or knowingly permits animals to be
kept, must not attend to them unless that
person has access to all relevant Statutory
Welfare Codes relating to the animals while
that person is attending to them, and is
acquainted with the provisions of those
Codes.
|
In Regulation 2 it states that "Statutory
Welfare Code" means a Code for the time being
issued by the Scottish Ministers under Section
3 of the Agriculture (Miscellaneous Provisions)
Act 1968. |
To cause unnecessary pain or unnecessary
distress to any livestock on agricultural land
is an offence under Section 1(1) of the
Agriculture (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act
1968. The breach of a Code provision, whilst
not an offence in itself, can nevertheless be
used in evidence as tending to establish the
guilt of anyone accused of causing the offence
of causing unnecessary pain or unnecessary
distress under the Act (Section 3(4)). |
In Regulation 3(1), it states that owners
and keepers of animals must take all reasonable
steps: - to ensure the welfare of the animals
under their care; and
- to ensure that the animals are not
caused any unnecessary pain, suffering or
injury.
|
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442),
Regulation 3(3), states that: - In deciding whether the conditions
under which animals are being bred or kept
comply with the requirements set out in
Schedule 1 of the Regulations, the owner
and keeper of the animals must have regard
to their species, and to their degree of
development, adaptation and domestication,
and to their physiological and ethological
needs in accordance with established
experience and scientific knowledge.
|
In Regulation 11, it states that: - Where an authorised person considers
that animals are being kept in a way which
is likely to cause unnecessary pain,
suffering or injury, or in any other way in
contravention of any provision of these
Regulations, he may serve a notice on the
person appearing to him to be in charge of
the animals requiring that person within
the period stated in the notice, to take
any action that the authorised person
considers to be reasonably necessary to
ensure compliance with these Regulations
and the authorised person shall give his
reasons for requiring that action to be
taken.
|
In Regulation 13(2), it states that: - In any proceedings against an owner or
keeper of animals for a failure to comply
with Regulation 3(1) or 3(2), as read with
Regulation 3(3), the owner or keeper as the
case may be, may rely on his compliance
with any relevant recommendations contained
in a Statutory Welfare Code as tending to
establish his compliance with the relevant
Regulation.
|
The Code aims to encourage all those who care for farm
animals to adopt the highest standards of husbandry.
Without good stockmanship, animal welfare can never be
adequately protected. If stock-keepers follow this Code, it
will help them to meet the necessary welfare standards. No
matter how acceptable a system may be in principle, without
competent, diligent stockmanship, the welfare of the
animals cannot be adequately catered for.
The welfare of pigs is considered within a framework
that was developed by the Farm Animal Welfare Council and
known as the "Five Freedoms". These form a logical basis
for assessing animal welfare within any husbandry system,
together with the actions necessary to safeguard animal
welfare within the limitations of an efficient livestock
industry.
The Five Freedoms are:
1.
Freedom from hunger and thirst - by ready
access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health
and vigour.
2.
Freedom from discomfort - by providing an
appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable
resting area.
3.
Freedom from pain, injury or disease - by
prevention or by rapid diagnosis and treatment.
4.
Freedom to express most normal behaviour -
by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and
company of the animal's own kind.
5.
Freedom from fear and distress - by
ensuring conditions and treatment to avoid mental
suffering.
In acknowledging these freedoms, those people who care
for livestock should demonstrate:
- caring and responsible planning and
management;
- skilled, knowledgeable and conscientious
stockmanship;
- appropriate environmental design (for example, of
the husbandry system);
- considerate handling and transport;
- humane slaughter.
The Protection of Animals (Scotland) Act
1912 contains the general law relating to
cruelty to animals. Broadly it is an offence
(under Section 1 of the 1912 Act) to be cruel
to any domestic or captive animal by anything
that is done or omitted to be done. |
Section 11(2) of the 1912 Act empowers a
police constable to place, in safe custody,
animals in the charge of persons apprehended
for an offence under the Act until the end of
proceedings or the court orders the return of
the animals. The reasonable costs involved,
including any necessary veterinary treatment,
are recoverable by the police from the owner
upon conviction. |
Under Section 1 of the Protection of Animals
(Amendment) Act 1954, as amended by the 1988
Act, the court has the power to disqualify a
person convicted under those Acts from having
custody of any animal. The ban can specify a
particular kind of animal or all animals for
such period as the court thinks fit. |
This Code applies in Scotland only and has been issued
by the Scottish Ministers (following its approval in draft
by the Scottish Parliament). It replaces (also only in
Scotland) the existing Code, which was issued in 1983.
Similar Codes are being produced in England, Wales and
Northern Ireland. Until these new Codes are issued, the
existing Code will continue to apply in England and Wales.
Separate arrangements exist in Northern Ireland.
THIS WELFARE CODE WAS ISSUED ON *** *****
2004.
introduction1 This Code (which only applies in
Scotland) covers all pigs. The word "pigs" refers to all
porcine stock, and includes wild boar kept for farming
purposes. A piglet refers to a pig from birth to
weaning.
2 The Code's recommendations apply to pigs
under all husbandry systems. Section 1 of the Code gives
the recommendations that apply to all ages and types of
pig. Section 2 covers the recommendations that apply to
specific categories of pigs (such as boars or pigs kept
outdoors). If these recommendations are followed, they will
help to protect the stock's welfare. The Code's
recommendations are not a complete list and they are not
meant to replace expert advice such as from a veterinary
surgeon.
3 The husbandry system that is used, and
the number of pigs kept at any one time, should depend
on:
- the suitability of the farm environment;
- how many animals the farm can accommodate at one
time;
- the competence of the stock-keeper; and
- how long the stock-keepers have to carry out their
duties.
4 Organic pig farming is conducted
according to additional, legally enforced standards.
However, nothing in those standards affects the legal
responsibilities of organic farmers regarding positive
animal welfare. Any matters which appear to conflict with
organic standards should be discussed with your organic
certifying body. In addition, you should seek expert
advice, such as from a veterinary surgeon.
5 No changes should be made to husbandry,
equipment or production until the possible effects on
animal welfare have been considered. The possible effect on
animal welfare should be considered before installing more
complex or elaborate equipment than has previously been
used. In general, the greater the restriction imposed on
the animal and the greater the complexity of the overall
system, the less the animal is able to use its instinctive
behaviour to modify the effect of unfavourable conditions.
Systems involving a high degree of control over the
environment should only be installed where conscientious
staff skilled in both animal husbandry and the use of the
equipment will always be available.
6 The relevant animal welfare legislation
applies to owners as well as to anyone looking after pigs
on their behalf, wherever the pigs are - either on the farm
or during transport. A written contract can be useful in
making sure that everyone involved is clear about his or
her animal welfare responsibilities. However, the
obligations imposed by law will still apply, whether or not
a contract exists. Certain aspects of livestock husbandry
can present hazards to the health and safety of the
stock-keeper (such as the level of dust in the
environment). Advice on such matters is available from the
local Agricultural Safety Inspector of the Health and
Safety Executive.
section 1 - recommendations for all
pigsstockmanship
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442) define a
"keeper" as "any person responsible for, or in
charge of, animals whether on a permanent or
temporary basis". |
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442),
Schedule 1, Paragraph 1, states that: Animals must be cared for by a sufficient
number of staff who possess the appropriate
ability, knowledge and professional
competence. |
General
7 The stock-keeper has the most
significant influence on the welfare of pigs. In general,
the larger the size of the unit the greater the degree of
skill and care needed to safeguard welfare. The size of a
unit should not be increased, nor should a large unit be
set up, unless it is certain that the level of stockmanship
will be sufficiently high to safeguard the welfare of each
individual pig.
8 The stock-keeper should
draw up a written health and welfare plan with the herd's
veterinary surgeon and, where necessary, other technical
advisers. You should review and update your health and
welfare plan at least once a year. This plan should set out
health and husbandry activities that cover the cycle of
production and include strategies to prevent, treat or
limit existing disease problems. The plan should include
enough records for you to assess the basic output of the
herd and monitor the welfare of the pigs.
9 Those responsible for managing the farm
should make sure that the pigs are cared for by enough well
motivated and competent staff. These staff need to be aware
of the welfare needs of pigs and be capable of protecting
them from all expected problems before they are given any
responsibility. This means that the staff need specific
knowledge and skills, which they should develop on-farm by
working with a skilled stock-keeper who is experienced in
the relevant system. Wherever possible, staff should also
attend relevant courses run by a suitable training
organisation. Ideally, the training should lead to formal
recognition of competence. Any contract or casual labour
used on the farm should be trained and competent in the
relevant activity.
10 Stock-keepers should be knowledgeable
and competent in a wide range of animal health and welfare
skills, which should include:
If the stock-keeper is expected to perform specific
tasks on-farm (for example, artificial insemination or
teeth clipping/grinding), then they should be trained and
competent.
Inspection
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488) Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraph 2, requires
that: All pigs shall be inspected by the owner or
keeper of the pigs at least once a day to check
that they are in a state of well-being. |
11 The health and welfare of animals
depends on them being regularly inspected. Adequate
lighting must be available to enable thorough inspection of
the stock. All stock-keepers should be familiar with the
normal behaviour of pigs. Badly managed and unhealthy pigs
will not thrive, and it is essential that the stock-keeper
should watch for signs of distress, disease or aggression
towards an animal by other pigs in the group. To do this,
it is important that stock-keepers have enough time to:
(a) inspect the stock;
(b) check equipment; and
(c) take action to deal with any problem.
12 The stock-keeper should always be
looking out for signs of ill health in pigs, which
include:
(a) separation from the group;
(b) listlessness;
(c) swollen navel, udder or joints;
(d) rapid or irregular breathing;
(e) persistent coughing or panting;
(f) shivering;
(g) discolouration or blistering of the skin;
(h) loss of body condition;
(i) sneezing;
(j) lameness (inspection of the feet and legs is
particularly important);
(k) lack of co-ordination;
(l) constipation;
(m) diarrhoea
(n) poor appetite; and
(o) vomiting.
13 You should be able to anticipate
problems or recognise them in their earliest stages, and,
in many cases, they should be able to identify the cause
and put matters right immediately. Always consider the
possibility that the pigs may be affected by a notifiable
disease (
see Paragraphs 36-37). If
the cause is not obvious, or if your immediate action is
not effective, a veterinary surgeon or other expert should
be called in immediately - failure to do so may cause
unnecessary suffering.
Handling
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442),
Schedule 1, Paragraph 30, states that: No person shall apply an electric current to
any animals for the purposes of
immobilisation. |
14 Pigs should be moved at
their own pace. You should encourage them gently -
especially around corners and where it is slippery
underfoot. You should avoid too much noise, excitement or
force. You must not hit the animals, or put pressure on any
particularly sensitive part of the body. Anything you use,
such as pig boards, to guide the animals should only be
used for that purpose and must not have a sharp or pointed
end. The use of electric goads on adult pigs should be
avoided as far as possible. If goads are used, you should
ensure that there is sufficient space for the pigs to move
forward.
15 You should make sure that all floors
and walkways are well maintained and provide a non-slip
surface without putting too much pressure on the animals'
feet. The floor should not slope too steeply as steeper
slopes can cause leg problems.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraphs 4 and 5
state that: |
4 No person shall tether, or cause to be
tethered, any pig except while it is undergoing
any examination, test, treatment or operation
carried out for any veterinary purpose. |
5(1) Where the use of tethers is permitted
in accordance with Paragraph 4, they shall not
cause injury to the pigs and shall be inspected
regularly and adjusted as necessary to ensure a
comfortable fit. |
(2) Each tether shall be of sufficient
length to allow the pigs to move as stipulated
in Paragraph 6(2) below and the design shall be
such as to avoid, as far as possible, any risk
of strangulation, pain or injury. |
16 All stock-keepers must have access to
easy to use and efficient handling systems. This is to
allow you to routinely manage and treat the animals, and
make sure that they are quietly and firmly handled.
Transport off-farm
The Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997 (S.I. 1997
No. 1480), Schedule 2, Part II,
Paragraph 15, states that: 1 Animals shall not be suspended by
mechanical means, nor lifted or dragged by the
head, horns, legs or tail. 2 No person shall use excessive force to
control animals. 3 No person shall use: (a) any instrument which is capable of
inflicting an electric shock to control any
animal; (b) any stick (other than a flat slap stick
or a slap marker) non-electric goad or other
instrument or thing to hit or prod any
pigs. 4 The prohibition in Paragraph (a) above
shall not apply to the use of any instrument on
the hindquarters of adult pigs which are
refusing to move forward when there is space
for them to do so, but the use of any such
instrument shall be avoided as far as
possible. 5 Nothing in this provision shall prevent
the suspension by mechanical means of a
receptacle in which an animal is being
carried. The Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order
1997, Schedule 2, Paragraph 10 states that: - Animals shall be loaded and unloaded in
accordance with this paragraph.
- Save as provided in Sub-paragraphs (6)
and (7) below, they shall be loaded and
unloaded using suitable ramps, bridges,
gangways or mechanical lifting gear,
operated so as to prevent injury or
unnecessary suffering to any animal.
- The flooring of any loading equipment
shall be constructed so as to prevent
slipping.
- Subject to Sub-paragraph (6) below,
ramps, bridges, gangways and loading
platforms shall be provided on each side
with protection which is -
(a) of sufficient strength, length and
height to prevent any animal using the loading
equipment from falling or escaping; and (b) positioned so that it will not result in
injury or unnecessary suffering to any
animal. 6 An animal may be loaded or unloaded by
means of manual lifting or carrying if the
animal is of a size that it can be easily
lifted by not more than two persons and the
operation is carried out without causing injury
or unnecessary suffering to the animal. 7 An animal may be loaded or unloaded
without equipment or by manual lifting or
carrying provided that, having regard to the
age, height and species of the animal, it is
unlikely to be caused injury or unnecessary
suffering by being loaded or unloaded in this
manner. |
17 You must have the facilities on-farm to
load and unload pigs onto and from a vehicle, with as
little stress as possible. Stock-keepers should know how to
handle animals during loading and unloading, including when
and how to use pig boards to guide the animal.
Marking
18 Permanent marking of pigs by, for
example, ear or body tattooing or ear tagging, should be
carried out only by a trained and competent operator using
properly maintained instruments and under hygienic
conditions. Ear tags should be suitable for use in pigs.
Slapmarking is an acceptable method where identification is
required immediately prior to transporting the pigs to
slaughter. Where, for herd management purposes, ear marking
is by notching or punching, you should use appropriate
equipment.
19 When ear tagging, notching or
tattooing, you must properly restrain the animals. Take
care to position and insert tags correctly by following the
manufacturer's instructions, avoiding main blood vessels
and ridges of cartilage.
20 If you are using aerosols or paints for
temporary marking, make sure only non-toxic substances are
used.
health
General
21 Maintenance of good health is the most
basic requirement affecting the welfare of the pig.
Measures to protect health include good hygiene, good
husbandry and effective ventilation. Vaccinations may be
appropriate against certain diseases. You should ensure
that only authorised veterinary medicinal products,
including vaccines, are used. Useful information on the
health status of the herd can be obtained from feedback at
meat inspection in the abattoir.
22 The written health and welfare plan (
see Paragraph 8) should also,
as a minimum, look at:
(a) biosecurity arrangements on-farm and during
transport;
(b) purchased stock procedures;
(c) any specific disease control programmes, such as
salmonella, erysipelas, E. coli, mycoplasma and parvo
virus;
(d) vaccination policy and timing;
(e) isolation procedures;
(f) mixing and grouping of pigs;
(g) external and internal parasite control;
(h) lameness monitoring and foot care;
(i) routine procedures, such as ear tagging; and
(j) prevention and control of vices such as tail
biting.
The health and welfare plan should make sure that
animals get any necessary medical treatment at the correct
time and in the correct dose.
Biosecurity
23 Biosecurity means:
(a) keeping farm units secure from the introduction of
infectious diseases;
(b) minimising the spread of any diseases on the
unit; and
(c) preventing the spread of disease off the
farm.
If you and your stock-keepers take proper precautions
when you move within the farm or you move animals and
equipment, you can greatly reduce the chance of spreading
any disease.
24 Incoming stock presents the greatest
risk to the health of the herd as regards infectious
disease. You should ask the vendor to provide you with
information on the health of the herd and routine
vaccination. You should have isolation facilities so that
you can isolate and test incoming stock for a period when
they arrive, before they join the rest of the herd.
25 Only essential visitors should be
allowed onto the unit and they should follow cleansing and
disinfection procedures and wear unit clothing and
footwear. A visitor book should be provided and visitors
asked to sign to say they have not been near other pigs or
livestock for an agreed period, as stipulated in your herd
health and welfare plan. A system should be provided to
alert staff of visitors at the gate.
26 Loading facilities and, where possible,
feed bins should be sited at the unit perimeter. Vehicles
should be kept off the unit wherever possible but where
entry is essential they must be cleansed and disinfected
thoroughly.
27 A programme of pest control should be
in place for rodents etc. Every effort should be made to
make housing proof against birds, such as starlings.
Domestic pets, feral cats and other wild animals should be
discouraged.
28 It is not possible to prevent all
airborne infections from entering a unit but when planning
new units these should be sited as far as is practicable
from other pig units as this will reduce the risk of spread
of airborne infectious diseases. Further detailed guidance
on biosecurity can be found in Codes of Recommendations for
the Welfare of Livestock: Animal Health and Biosecurity (
see the appendix). This
document also includes guidance for official visitors and
recreational users of farmland. There is also a biosecurity
website:
www.scotland.gov.uk/about/ERADRA/LAH/00015721/BIOSECURITY.aspx).
Condition Scoring
29 Body condition scoring can contribute
greatly to good husbandry and help to avoid costly welfare
problems. Condition scoring is an easy technique to learn.
Basically, it means that you can quickly assess the body
reserves (
i.e. fat) of individual animals. The technique
will be of benefit if you use it as a routine management
tool to check that sows are in the target body condition
for the various stages of the breeding cycle. This will be
particularly useful at:
(a) mid-pregnancy;
(b) farrowing/early lactation; and
(c) at weaning/drying off.
You should adjust feeding as necessary for animals that
are too fat or too thin. You will find more information in
the
DEFRA booklet "Condition scoring of
pigs" (
see the Appendix).
Lameness
30 Lameness in any animal is usually a
sign that they are in pain. Lameness in pigs is a sign of
ill health and discomfort. It clearly affects an animal's
welfare, as well as their performance and production. If a
significant percentage of your pigs have severe lameness,
this is a sign of disease or poor overall welfare standards
within the herd. In these circumstances, you should seek
urgent veterinary advice. You can find more information in
DEFRA's booklet "Lameness in pigs" (
see the Appendix).
31 If lame pigs do not respond to
treatment, you need to call a veterinary surgeon
immediately. Lameness can have a number of causes and early
and accurate diagnosis of the specific type of lameness
affecting the herd will enable you to take rapid and
appropriate action.
32 If a lame animal does not respond to
the veterinary surgeon's treatment, you should have it
culled rather than leave it to suffer. If you cannot
transport lame animals without causing them more pain, you
should slaughter them on the farm (
see Paragraphs 40-42). Also,
you must not transport any pig off-farm that cannot stand
up unaided or cannot bear their weight on all four legs
when standing or walking.
External Parasites
33 You should control diseases caused by
external parasites - especially where the animal's skin is
irritated and it is rubbing the area - with the appropriate
parasiticides. You should treat your animals for parasites
in accordance with veterinary advice and ensure that
control and treatment regimes form part of your herd health
and welfare plan.
Internal Parasites
34 You should control internal parasites
by using effective anthelmintics or vaccines. You have to
base your treatment on the life cycle of the particular
parasites you are tackling. You should treat your animals
for parasites in accordance with veterinary advice. Organic
producers in particular should seek veterinary advice on
this aspect of their herd health and welfare plan.
Equipment for Vaccination and
Treatment
35 You must make sure that all the
equipment you use for vaccinating and treating the animals
is in good working order. You should regularly clean and
sterilise any equipment you use for injections, to avoid
infections and abscesses and, ideally, use disposable
needles. Any dangerous objects should be disposed of
safely.
Notifiable Diseases
36 If you suspect that any animal is
suffering from a notifiable disease, you have a legal duty
to notify a Divisional Veterinary Manager (
DVM) as soon as possible.
37 The following are the main notifiable
diseases which affect pigs (please note that this is not a
complete list):
African swine fever
Anthrax
Aujeszky's disease
Classical swine fever
Foot and mouth disease
Rabies
Swine vesicular disease
Teschen disease
Vesicular stomatitis
For more information on these diseases contact your
veterinary surgeon or local Animal Health Divisional
Office.
Sick and Injured Animals
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland) Regulations
2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), Schedule 1, Paragraph 5 states
that:
any animals which appear to be ill or injured:
- must be cared for appropriately without delay;
and
- where they do not respond to care, veterinary
advice must be obtained as soon as possible.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488) Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraph 3 states
that: |
Where necessary, sick or injured pigs shall
be temporarily isolated in suitable
accommodation with dry comfortable bedding,
where appropriate. |
38 You should take action
immediately if any pigs are injured or appear ill or
distressed. It is important to exclude the possibility of
notifiable diseases. If you are in any doubt about the
cause of the ill health or the most effective treatment
consult your veterinary surgeon. Likewise, if an animal you
have treated does not respond to treatment, seek your
veterinary surgeon's advice.
39 Your health and welfare plan should
specify a procedure for isolating and caring for sick or
injured animals. Hospital pens should be available for each
category of pig on the unit. These pens should be easily
reached so that you can regularly check on the animal. When
moving sick or injured pigs to the hospital pens, you
should ensure that unnecessary suffering does not occur. In
these hospital pens, you should make sure that drinking
water is freely available, and that there are feeding
facilities. Particular care is needed where recumbent
animals are isolated to ensure that there is easy access to
water and feed and that the animals are eating and
drinking.
40 If an unfit animal
does not respond to treatment, it should be culled or
humanely killed on-farm. You should cull any animals
suffering from painful and incurable conditions (such as
severe lameness), as soon as possible after diagnosis. You
should not leave them to become extremely thin and too weak
to stand.
The Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order
1997 (S.I. 1997 No. 1480), Articles 4(1) and 6
respectively, provide that: - No person shall transport any animal in
a way which causes or is likely to cause
injury or unnecessary suffering to that
animal.
- No person shall transport any animal
unless:
- it is fit for the intended journey;
and
- suitable provision has been made for
its care during the journey and on arrival
at the place of destination.
For these purposes an animal shall not be
considered fit for its intended journey if it
is ill, injured, infirm or fatigued, unless it
is only slightly ill, injured, infirm or
fatigued and the intended journey is not likely
to cause it unnecessary suffering, likely to
give birth during transport, has given birth
during the previous 48 hours or is a new born
animal in which the navel has not completely
healed. |
41 You can only transport an unfit animal
if you are taking it to a veterinary surgeon for treatment
or diagnosis, or to the nearest available place of
slaughter - and then, only provided they are not likely to
be subject to unnecessary suffering during the journey by
reason of their unfitness. More information can be found in
DEFRA's booklet, "Guidance on the
transport of casualty farm animals" (
see the Appendix).
42 In an emergency, you may have to
slaughter an animal immediately to prevent its suffering.
In such cases, you should destroy the animal humanely and,
where possible, it should be done by someone who is
suitably trained and competent both in slaughter methods
and use of the equipment. Under these emergency
circumstances, a slaughter licence is not required.
It is a general offence under the Welfare of
Animals (Slaughter or Killing) Regulations 1995
(S.I. 1995 No. 731) as amended by the Welfare
of Animals (Slaughter or Killing) (Amendment)
Regulations 2001 (S.S.I. No. 610), to cause or
permit any avoidable excitement, pain or
suffering to any animal during slaughter or
killing (Regulation 4(1)). |
The general offence applies in all cases,
but the detailed provisions in respect of the
method of slaughter or killing do not apply
when an animal has to be killed
immediately for emergency
reasons (Regulation 13(2)). |
43 If you have to slaughter the animals
on-farm in a non-emergency situation, you must do so using
a permitted method that is in line with current welfare at
slaughter legislation (see box below).
The Welfare of Animals (Slaughter or
Killing) Regulations 1995 (S.I. 1995 No. 731)
as amended by the Welfare of Animals (Slaughter
or Killing) (Amendment) Regulations 1999 (S.I.
1999 No. 400) states that when an animal is
slaughtered or killed on-farm, this must be
done using a permitted method. The animal could
be: - stunned using a captive bolt pistol,
concussion stunner or electrical stunner
after which it must be followed by bleeding
- or pithed - without delay (Regulation 14
and Schedules 5 (Part II) and 6). If the
animal is stunned and bled, the operation
must be carried out by a slaughterman
licensed for these operations (Schedule 1),
unless the owner is slaughtering an animal
for his own consumption; or
- killed by a free bullet (Regulation 15
and Schedule 5 Part III).
|
44 After slaughter, you must dispose of
the carcass by a suitable method (see box below).
Article 5 of the Animal By-Products Order
1999 (S.I. 1999 No. 646) requires that fallen
stock are disposed of by: - despatch to a knackers yard, hunt
kennel or similar premises;
- incineration;
- rendering; or
- in certain circumstances, burial in
such a way that carnivorous animals cannot
gain access to the carcass, or
burning.
This provision applies to the disposal of
stillborn piglets and foetuses, as well as to
older pigs. The Dogs Acts 1906-28 include provisions
making it an offence for a person knowingly to
permit a carcass to remain unburied in a place
to which dogs could gain access. |
At present, burial or burning is only permitted in very
limited circumstances. If you plan to bury the carcase
on-farm, you should first check that the local authority
allows this under the Animals By-product Order 1999 (S.I.
1999 No. 646). However, from 2003, new
EU legislation, the Animal By-products
Regulation, will ban the on-farm burial of animal carcases,
other than in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.
Record Keeping
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442),
Schedule 1, Paragraph 7 states that: A record shall be maintained of - (a) any medicinal treatment given to
animals; and (b) the number of mortalities found on each
inspection of animals carried out in accordance
with any of the following provisions. |
Schedule 1, Paragraph 8 states that: - The record referred to in Paragraph 7
must be retained for a period of at least 3
years from the date on which the medicinal
treatment was given, or the date of the
inspection, as the case may be, and must
be, made available to an authorised person
when carrying out an inspection or when
otherwise requested by such person.
|
45 Only authorised veterinary medicinal
products should be used. You must keep full records of all
medicines used, including where it was bought. You must
also keep records for at least 3 years of:
- • the date you treated the
animals;
- • the identity and quantity of
medicine used; and
- • which animal or group of animals you
treated.
It is a requirement under the Animals and Animal
Products (Examination for Residues and Maximum Residue
Limits) Regulations 1997 (S.I. 1997 No. 1729), Part V,
Paragraph 32, that you keep a record of:
The name and address of the supplier of the veterinary
medicinal product.
You will find more information in the Code of Practice
on responsible use of animal medicines on the farm (
see the Appendix).
46 In terms of individual animal
management, you may find it useful, as part of the health
and welfare plan, to note specific cases of mastitis,
lameness and other disorders, and where appropriate, the
relevant treatment given.
accommodation
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraphs 6 and 7
state that: 6(1) A pig shall be free to turn round
without difficulty at all times. (2) The accommodation used for pigs shall be
constructed in such a way as to allow each pig
to - (a) stand up, lie down and rest without
difficulty; (b) have a clean, comfortable and adequately
drained place in which it can rest; (c) see other pigs, unless the pig is
isolated for veterinary reasons; (d) maintain a comfortable temperature;
and (e) have enough space to allow all the
animals to lie down at the same time. 7(1) The dimension of any stall or pen used
for holding individual pigs in accordance with
these Regulations shall be such that the
internal area is not less than the square of
the length of the pig, and no internal side is
less than 75% of the length of the pig, the
length of the pig in each case being measured
from the tip of its snout to the base of its
tail while it is standing with its back
straight. (2) Sub-paragraph 7(1) does not apply to a
female pig for the period between 7 days before
the predicted day of her farrowing and the day
on which the weaning of her piglets (including
any piglets fostered by her) is complete. |
General
47 You should seek appropriate welfare
advice when new buildings are to be constructed or existing
buildings modified. Some specialised buildings use complex
mechanical and electrical equipment which require
additional technical and management skills to ensure that
husbandry and welfare requirements are met.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442),
Schedule 1, Paragraphs 11 and 12 state
that: - materials used for the construction of
accommodation, and, in particular for the
construction of pens, cages, stalls and
equipment with which animals may come into
contact, must not be harmful to them and
must be capable of being thoroughly cleaned
and disinfected.
- accommodation and fittings for securing
animals shall be constructed and maintained
so that there are no sharp edges or
protrusions likely to cause injury to
them.
|
48 The internal surfaces of housing and
pens should be made of materials that you can easily clean
and disinfect regularly, and easily replace when
necessary.
49 If you are going to treat these
surfaces, use paints or wood preservatives that are safe to
use with animals. There is a risk of lead poisoning from
old paintwork, especially if you use second-hand building
materials.
Floors
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraphs 12 and 13
state that: 12 Where pigs are kept in a building, floors
shall - (a) be smooth but not slippery so as to
prevent injury to the pigs; (b) be so designed, constructed and
maintained as not to cause injury or suffering
to pigs standing or lying on them; (c) be suitable for the size and weight of
the pigs; and (d) where no litter is provided, form a
rigid, even and stable surface. |
13 When concrete slatted floors are used for pigs kept
in groups:
(a) the maximum width of the openings between the slats
must be:
(i) 11 mm for piglets;
(ii) 14 mm for weaners;
(iii) 18 mm for rearing pigs;
(iv) 20 mm for gilts after service and
sows; and
(b) the minimum width of the slats must be:
(i) 50 mm for piglets and weaners;
and
(ii) 80 mm for rearing pigs, gilts after
service and sows.
50 Good floor design and adequate
maintenance is essential. Poorly constructed floors, slats
that are not properly matched to the weight/size of pig and
surfaces that are worn and/or damaged, can cause injury to
the feet and legs of pigs. Excessive gaps should be avoided
as they can trap the feet/claws and may cause physical
damage. Damaged floors must be repaired immediately.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraph 11
requires: Where bedding is provided, this must be
clean, dry and not harmful to the pigs. |
51 The lying area should always be kept
dry and pen floors, including the dunging area, should be
drained effectively. Where bedding is provided, this must
be clean and dry, regularly topped up or changed, and not
detrimental to the health of the pigs.
Ventilation and Temperature
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442),
Schedule 1, Paragraph 13 states that: - Air circulation, dust levels,
temperature, relative humidity and gas
concentrations shall be kept within limits
which are not harmful to the animals.
|
52 All new buildings should be designed
with the animals' comfort in mind, and with the aim of
preventing respiratory diseases. The buildings should
provide enough ventilation throughout the year for the
type, size and number of stock to be housed in them. In
addition to meeting the ventilation requirements, the
system should be designed to avoid draughts affecting the
pigs' living space.
53 Effective ventilation is essential to
the well-being of the stock as it provides fresh air,
removes noxious gases and aids in controlling temperature.
Excessive heat loss should be prevented either by the
structural insulation of the external walls, roof and the
floor in the lying area, or by the provision of adequate
bedding. Heat gain to buildings in hot conditions will be
minimised by the insulation in the walls and roof.
54 Pigs have a very limited ability to
sweat and are acutely susceptible to heat stress. Possible
cooling methods including blowing air over the pigs in a
part of the pen, providing water spray/misting systems or
simply wetting floors with a hosepipe, can be used to
ensure that pigs in buildings do not become overheated in
hot weather. There should always be some dry lying area
available as a matter of choice so that the pigs can move
away from the cooler conditions.
55 Liveweight, group size, floor type, air
speed and feed intake markedly affect temperature
requirements and you must take these factors into account
when determining the minimum temperature appropriate in
each case. Slatted floors and low feed levels generally
increase temperature requirements whilst straw bedding,
high feed levels and higher body weights decrease
requirements. For most circumstances, an appropriate
temperature can be found within the range given below:
Category of Pig | Temperature |
|---|
| (°C) | (°F) |
|---|
Sows | 15-20 | 59-68 |
|---|
Suckling pigs in creeps | 25-30 | 77-84 |
|---|
Weaned pigs (3-4 weeks) | 27-32 | 81-90 |
|---|
Later weaned pigs (5 weeks+) | 22-27 | 71-80 |
|---|
Finishing pigs (porkers) | 15-21 | 59-70 |
|---|
Finishing pigs (baconers) | 13-18 | 55-64 |
|---|
56 You should avoid wide or abrupt
fluctuations in temperature in housing systems within any
24-hour period. Wide fluctuations in the daily temperature
regime can create stress that can trigger outbreaks of
vice, such as tail biting, or disease such as pneumonia.
You should maintain a higher than normal level of vigilance
at these times.
57 When pigs are moved to new
accommodation, the possibility of cold stress occurring as
a result of sudden changes in the thermal environment can
be reduced by the provision of bedding, such as straw, or
by preheating the building.
58 When you are removing slurry from under
slats, you must take special care to avoid fouling the air
with dangerous gases (such as ammonia), which can kill both
humans and animals. Buildings should be well ventilated
during this procedure.
Lighting and Noise Levels
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland) Regulations
2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442), Schedule 1, Paragraphs 3 and 16
state that:
3 Where animals are kept in a building, adequate
lighting (whether fixed or portable) must be available to
enable them to be thoroughly inspected at any time.
16 Animals kept in buildings shall not be kept without
an appropriate period of rest from artificial lighting.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraphs 8 and 18
state that: 8 Where pigs are kept in an artificially lit
building then lighting with an intensity of at
least 40 lux shall be provided for a minimum
period of 8 hours per day subject to Paragraph
16 of Schedule 1. 18(1) Pigs shall not be exposed to constant
or sudden noise. (2) Noise levels above 85dBA shall be
avoided in that part of any building where pigs
are kept. |
59 You should have enough fixed or
portable lighting available at any time if you need to
inspect any animals, for example, during farrowing.
60 The siting of machinery such as feed
milling units should be appropriate to minimise the noise
impact on housed stock. Any bell or buzzer which is likely
to occur erratically,
e.g. a visitor to the site, should be
sufficiently loud to attract human attention but without
causing undue alarm to the stock.
Automated and Mechanical Equipment
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442),
Schedule 1, Paragraphs 18-21, state that: 18 All automated or mechanical equipment
essential for the health and well being of the
animals must be inspected at least once a day
to check there is no defect in it. 19 Any defect in automated or mechanical
equipment of the type referred to in the
paragraph above is discovered, it must be
rectified immediately, or if that is
impossible, appropriate steps must be taken to
safeguard the health and well-being of the
animals pending the rectification of such
defects including the use of alternative
methods of feeding and watering and methods of
providing and maintaining a satisfactory
environment. 20 Where the health and well-being of the
animals is dependent on an artificial
ventilation system - (a) Provision must be made for an
appropriate back-up system to guarantee
sufficient air renewal to preserve the health
and well-being of the animals in the event of
failure of the system; and (b) An alarm system must be provided to give
warning of any failure of the system (which
will operate even if the principal electricity
supply to it has failed). 21 The back-up system must be thoroughly
inspected and the alarm system shall each be
tested at least once every seven days in order
to check that there is no defect in the system
and, if any defect is found (whether when the
system is inspected or tested in accordance
with
this paragraph or at any other time),
it must be rectified immediately. |
61 All mains electrical equipment should
be properly earthed, safeguarded from rodents and out of
the pigs' reach.
62 All equipment, including feed hoppers,
drinkers, ventilating fans, heating and lighting units,
fire extinguishers and alarm systems, must be cleaned and
inspected regularly and kept in good working order.
63 All automatic equipment used in
intensive systems must be inspected by the stock-keeper, or
other competent person, not less than once each day to
check that there are no defects. Any defect must be
rectified immediately.
Fire and Other Emergency Precautions
64 There should be plans in place to deal
with emergencies at your farm, such as fire, flood or
disruption of supplies. The owner should make sure that all
the staff are familiar with the appropriate emergency
action. You will find more information in the
DEFRA booklets, "Emergencies on
livestock farms" and "Farm fires: advice on farm animal
welfare" (
see the Appendix).
65 It is important that you get advice
about design when you are building or modifying a building.
You need to be able to release and evacuate livestock
quickly if there is an emergency. You should consider
installing fire alarms that can be heard and responded to
at any time of day or night.
66 You can get expert advice on all fire
precautions from fire prevention officers at your local
fire brigade and from the Fire Prevention Association.
feed, water and other
substances
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442),
Schedule 1, Paragraphs 22-23 state that: 22 Animals must be fed a wholesome diet
which is appropriate to their age and species
and which is fed to them in sufficient quantity
to maintain them in good health and to satisfy
their nutritional needs and to promote a
positive state of well-being. 23 Animals must not be provided with food or
liquid in a manner, nor shall such food or
liquid contain any substance, which may cause
them unnecessary suffering or injury.The
Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442),
Schedule 1, Paragraph 26 states that: - Feeding and watering equipment must be
designed, constructed, placed and
maintained so that contamination of food
and water and the harmful effects of
competition between animals are
minimised.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488) Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraph 14 states
that: 14(1) All pigs must be fed at least once a
day. (2) Where pigs are housed in a group and do
not have continuous access to feed, or are not
fed by an automatic feeding system for feeding
the animals individually, each pig must have
access to the food at the same time as the
others in the feeding group. |
67 All pigs need a balanced daily diet to
maintain full health and vigour. You should plan any
changes in the diet and introduce them gradually.
68 When introducing pigs to unaccustomed
housing, you should make sure that the animals are able to
find the feed and water points. When newly weaned piglets
are moved to pens where water is provided through nipple
drinkers unfamiliar to the piglets, it is good practice to
provide alternative water sources for the first few
days.
69 Where pigs are fed on a rationed feed
level to control intake, you should ensure that adequate
trough space is provided to ensure that all pigs can
receive their allocation. The following guidelines for
trough space per pig apply:
WEIGHT OF PIG (
KG) | TROUGH SPACE (
CMS) |
|---|
5 | 10 |
|---|
10 | 13 |
|---|
15 | 15 |
|---|
35 | 20 |
|---|
60 | 23 |
|---|
90 | 28 |
|---|
120 | 30 |
|---|
70 Good hygiene is necessary for storage
and feeding systems as moulds can develop in stale feed
which can have a detrimental effect on pigs. Feed bins
should be cleaned out regularly.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraph 15 states
that: All pigs over 2 weeks of age must have
permanent access to a sufficient quantity of
fresh drinking water. |
71 There are several factors you should
take into consideration when looking at the provision of
water to pigs:
- the total volume required;
- the total volume available;
- the flow rate (pigs will not spend a long time
taking water);
- the method of provision
e.g. the type of drinker; and
- its accessibility to all stock.
The following is a guide to minimum daily water
requirements for various weights of pig:
Weight of pig (kg) | Daily requirement
(litres) | Minimum flow rate through nipple
drinkers
(litres/ min) |
|---|
Newly weaned | 1.0-1.5 | 0.3 |
|---|
Up to 20 kgs | 1.5-2.0 | 0.5-1.0 |
|---|
20 kgs-40 kgs | 2.0-5.0 | 1.0-1.5 |
|---|
Finishing pigs up to 100 kgs | 5.0-6.0 | 1.0-1.5 |
|---|
Sows and gilts - pre-service and in-pig | 5.0-8.0 | 2.0 |
|---|
Sows and gilts - in lactation | 15-30 | 2.0 |
|---|
Boars | 5.0-8.0 | 2.0 |
|---|
72 Waste water and excessive flow rates
can be detrimental, particularly for sows in farrowing
accommodation and very young pigs.
73 You should carefully consider the
height at which water nipples and bowls are placed. All
pigs must be able to access the drinking point so this
might require several different drinkers at various heights
when groups of pigs of a range of weights are housed
together or when pigs are housed in a pen for a long
period.
74 Where nipple drinkers are used, a
drinking point should be available for each ten pigs on
rationed feeding. On unrestricted feeding, one nipple
drinker should provide adequate supply for 15 pigs given
sufficient flow rates. Where trough systems are used, the
following guidelines should be applied:
WEIGHT OF PIG (
KG) | TROUGH SPACE PER HEAD (
CM) |
|---|
Up to 15 | 0.8 |
|---|
15 - 35 | 1.0 |
|---|
75 If you use a wet feeding system, pigs
must have access to a separate fresh water supply.
76 Feed and water should not be completely
withdrawn from sows which are being dried off.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442),
Schedule 1, Paragraph 27 states that: No other substance, with the exception of
those given for therapeutic or prophylactic
purposes, or for the purpose of zootechnical
treatment, shall be administered to animals
unless it has been demonstrated by scientific
studies of animal welfare or established
experience that the effect of that substance is
not detrimental to the health or welfare of the
animals. |
management
General
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.S.I. 2000 No. 442),
Schedule 1, Paragraph 17 states that: Animals not kept in buildings must, where
necessary and possible, be given protection
from adverse weather conditions, predators and
risks to their health and, at all times, have
access to a well-drained lying area. |
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraph 10 states
that: 10(1) Housing, pens, equipment and utensils
used for pigs must be properly cleaned and
disinfected as necessary to prevent
cross-infection and the build-up of
disease-carrying organisms. (2) Faeces, urine and uneaten or spilt food
must be removed as often as necessary to
minimise smell and avoid attracting flies or
rodents. |
77 You should keep all buildings, fields
and paddocks should be kept clear of debris, such as wire,
plastic and sharp objects, that could injure the pigs or
rip out their ear tags and damage their ears.
78 You should take all practical measures
to remove all pigs from areas that are in imminent danger
of flooding.
Environmental Enrichment
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraph 16 states
that: To enable proper investigation and
manipulation activities, all pigs must have
permanent access to a sufficient quantity of
material such as straw, hay, wood, sawdust,
mushroom compost, peat or a mixture of such,
which does not adversely affect the health of
the animals. |
79 Environmental enrichment provides pigs
with the opportunity to root, investigate, chew and play.
Straw is an excellent material for environmental enrichment
as it can satisfy many of the pigs' behavioural and
physical needs. It provides a fibrous material which the
pig can eat; the pig is able to root in and play with long
straw; and, when used as bedding, straw can provide the pig
with physical and thermal comfort.
80 Objects such as footballs and chains
can satisfy some of the pigs' behavioural needs, but can
quickly lose their novelty factor. The long-term use of
such items is not, therefore, recommended unless they are
used in conjunction with materials such as those listed
above, or are changed on a weekly basis.
Castration
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraphs 22 and
23(2) state that: 22 Male pigs may be castrated provided the
means employed do not involve tearing of
tissues. 23(2) If castration is carried out after the
seventh day of life, it shall only be performed
by a veterinary surgeon in accordance with the
provisions of the Protection of Animals
(Anaesthetics) Act 1954. |
81 Stockkeepers should consider carefully
whether castration is necessary. Castration is a mutilation
and should be avoided wherever possible. If it cannot be
avoided, it must be carried out in accordance with the law
by a trained and competent operator, or a veterinary
surgeon.
Tail Docking
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraphs 21 and
23(1) state that: 21 The following procedures shall not be
permitted routinely but only where there is
evidence that injuries to sows' teats or to
other pigs' ears or tails have occurred: - docking of a part of the tail
but no tail docking may be carried out
unless other measures to improve environmental
conditions or management systems have been
taken in order to prevent tail biting or other
vices. 23(1) If docking of tails is carried out
after the seventh day of life, it shall only be
performed under anaesthetic and additional
prolonged analgesia by a veterinary
surgeon. |
82 Tail biting and other vices, such as
ear and flank biting, are associated with some form of
stress. They can be triggered by a wide range or
combination of factors, including: overstocking, feed
deficiencies, incorrect temperature levels, fluctuating
temperature levels, inadequate ventilation, draughts, high
levels of dust and noxious gases (
i.e. ammonia) and lack of environmental
enrichment. Sometimes changes in external weather
conditions can also trigger an outbreak.
83 If tail biting does occur, it can
spread quickly through the pen and the degree of injury
increases very quickly. You should ensure that affected
pigs are removed to a hospital pen and treated without
delay. If possible, you should try to identify the
instigator and remove the animal to a separate pen.
84 Routine tail docking is not permitted.
Tail docking is only permitted as a last resort after
improvements to the pigs' environment and management have
proved ineffectual. Where it is necessary to tail dock, it
must be carried out in accordance with the law by a
veterinary surgeon or by a competent, trained operator. All
equipment used must be cleaned and disinfected between
pigs.
85 As part of your herd health and welfare
plan (
see Paragraphs 8 and
22), you must have a strategy
for dealing with outbreaks of vice such as tail biting.
Although much has been learnt from research and practical
on-farm experience, it is not possible to produce a
definitive solution for all cases. A thorough assessment
and planned approach is therefore recommended to identify
the particular cause of an outbreak on the unit and to find
the appropriate solution to the problem.
• Quantify the problem
- Note the position of pens and numbers of pigs
affected, check records of previous incidents.
• List possible causes
- Such as interruption or inadequate supply of feed
or water, lack of environmental enrichment, inadequate
ventilation, draughts, incorrect temperature levels,
overstocking, competition at feeding, excessive light
levels, elevated dust/noxious gas levels. Different causes
may be found in different pens on the same unit.
• Modify health and welfare plan
- Having identified areas for improvement, in
consultation with the herd's veterinary surgeon and other
technical advisers, modify your health and welfare plan to
implement the necessary changes with a view to preventing
future outbreaks of tail biting.
Teeth clipping/grinding
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraph 21 states
that: The following procedures shall not be
carried out routinely, but only where there is
evidence that injuries to sows' teats or to
other pigs' ears or tails have occurred: - uniform reduction of corner teeth of
piglets by grinding or clipping not later
than the seventh day of life of the piglets
leaving an intact smooth surface;
but no tooth reduction may be carried out
unless other measures to improve environmental
conditions or management systems have been
taken in order to prevent tail biting and other
vices. |
86 Routine clipping or grinding of teeth
is not permitted. Tooth reduction to the upper and lower
corner teeth ("eye" or canine teeth) of piglets should only
be used as a last resort. Your health and welfare plan
should identify circumstances where tooth reduction may be
necessary. These might include large litter size, cross
fostering, gilts and poor milk let down such as
mastitis.
87 Where tooth reduction is to be carried
out, it may not always be necessary for the whole litter.
Where it is necessary, it should be carried out before the
seventh day of life, in accordance with the law, by a
trained and competent operator or by a veterinary surgeon.
Suitable sharp, clean clippers or an appropriate grinder
should be used. All equipment used should be cleaned and
disinfected between pigs. Teeth grinders are recommended as
there is a reduced risk of shattering the teeth.
Natural Service
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000 No. 442) Schedule
1, Paragraph 28, states that 28(1) Subject to sub-paragraph (2), natural
or artificial breeding or breeding procedures
which cause, or are likely to cause, suffering
or injury to any of the animals concerned must
not be practised. (2) Sub-paragraph (1) does not preclude the
use of natural or artificial breeding
procedures that are likely to cause minimal or
momentary suffering or injury or that might
necessitate interventions which would not cause
lasting injury. |
88 All boars should have good and safe
service conditions. Slatted floors and slippery conditions
underfoot are not suitable for mating animals. As part of
your health and welfare plan, you should discuss with the
herd's veterinary surgeon how to avoid injury to boars and
sows through excessive mating activity.
Artificial Insemination, Vasectomy and
Electro-ejaculation
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraph 7(3) lists
certain exemptions from the requirement that a
pig shall be free to turn round without
difficulty at all times, including: - for the purposes of service, artificial
insemination or collection of semen;
provided that the period during which it is
so kept is not longer than necessary for that
purpose. |
89 You should keep the sows in their
groups until insemination, at which time they can be moved
to an appropriate stall or pen and inseminated. Sows should
be allowed time to settle down in the stall or pen, and
then exposed to a boar in order to encourage the standing
reflex before artificial insemination takes place.
90 Sows should be left undisturbed, to
allow uterine contractions, for up to thirty minutes after
artificial insemination (and natural service), but they
should then rejoin their group in order to minimise
bullying within the group hierarchy. When double
insemination is used, sows may be penned separately until
30 minutes after the second insemination, but pens must
allow the animal to turn round easily.
The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, as amended
by the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 (Schedule 3
Amendment) Order 1988 (S.I. 1988 No. 526)
prohibits the performance of a vasectomy or the
carrying out of electro-ejaculation by anyone
other than a veterinary surgeon. |
91 Semen collection and artificial
insemination should only be carried out by a trained,
competent and experienced operator. Vasectomy or
electro-ejaculation may only be carried out by a veterinary
surgeon.
section 2 - specific
recommendationsFarrowing sows and piglets
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part IV, Paragraphs 30-35
state: 30 Pregnant gilts and sows shall, where
necessary, be treated against external and
internal parasites. 31 If they are placed in farrowing crates,
pregnant sows and gilts shall be thoroughly
clean. 32 In the week before the expected farrowing
time sows and gilts must be given suitable
nesting material in sufficient quantity unless
it is not technically feasible for the slurry
system used. 33 During farrowing, an unobstructed area
behind the sow or gilt shall be available for
the ease of natural or assisted farrowing. 34 Farrowing pens where sows are kept loose
must have some means of protecting the piglets,
such as farrowing rails. 35 In the week before the expected farrowing
time and during farrowing, sows and gilts may
be kept out of sight of other pigs. |
92 You should manage the feeding of sows
and gilts so that they are in a suitable body condition at
the time of farrowing. A target score of 3.5 - 4 should be
aimed at just prior to farrowing. You should then gear the
feeding regime to minimising any loss in body condition
during lactation.
93 Nesting material
should be provided, whenever possible, particularly in the
24 hours prior to farrowing to satisfy the sow's need to
nest build and therefore minimise stress.
94 The environmental requirements of the
sow and litter are considerably different. In an
environmentally controlled farrowing house a heated creep
area - up to 32°C - should be provided for the piglets.
This can be by artificial heating, for example, overhead
infra-red lamps, a heat pad or underfloor heating or
alternatively by providing a well-bedded lying area. The
sow, however, has different environmental requirements. The
temperature in the farrowing room as a whole should be
around 18°C-20°C. High temperatures for the sow can impair
feed intake and her milking ability.
95 Where overhead lamps/heaters are used
they should be securely fixed and should be protected from
interference by the sow or piglets.
96 Farrowing accommodation should be so
constructed and sufficiently large to allow the sow to rise
up and lie down again without difficulty. You should be
experienced and competent in the techniques of farrowing
and should pay particular attention to hygiene, especially
at assisted farrowings. Mechanical farrowing aids should
only be used by a trained, competent operator.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part V, Paragraphs 43-47
state: 43 If necessary, piglets shall be provided
with a source of heat and a solid, dry and
comfortable lying area away from the sow where
all of them can rest at the same time. 44 A part of the total floor where the
piglets are and which is large enough to allow
the animals to rest together at the same time,
must be solid or covered with a mat or be
littered with straw or any other suitable
material. 45 Where a farrowing crate is used the
piglets must have sufficient space to be able
to be suckled without difficulty. 46 Piglets shall not be weaned from the sow
at an age of less than 28 days unless the
welfare or health of the dam or piglets would
otherwise be adversely affected. 47 Piglets may be weaned up to seven days
earlier if they are moved into specialised
housings which are emptied and thoroughly
cleaned and disinfected before the introduction
of a new group and which are separate from
housings where pigs (other than weaners) are
kept. |
97 Problems associated with weaning are
related to the age at weaning. Earlier weaning ages require
better systems of management and nutrition to avoid welfare
problems. Piglets should not be weaned at less than 28
days, except for orphaned, sick and surplus piglets
requiring special attention. The all-in-all-out system of
pig housing reduces the possibility of disease introduction
or spread on a unit. If at weaning, piglets are moved into
specialised housing which has previously been completely
emptied of pigs, cleaned and disinfected, piglets may be
weaned up to 7 days earlier.
98 It is particularly important that you
watch piglets carefully for signs of diarrhoea or
respiratory disease, such as coughing or rapid or laboured
breathing, both of which can spread rapidly. If the piglets
do not respond to treatment promptly or properly, you
should seek veterinary advice.
Weaners and rearing
pigs
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland) Amendment
Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No. 488), Schedule 6, Part
VI, Paragraph 52 states:
The unobstructed floor area available to each weaner or
rearing pig reared in a group shall be at least -
(a) 0.15m
2 for each animal where the average weight of
the animals in the group is 10 kg or less;
(b) 0.20m
2 for each animal where the average weight of
the animals in the group is more than 10 kg but less than
or equal to 20 kg;
(c) 0.30m
2 for each animal where the average weight of
the animals in the group is more than 20 kg but less than
or equal to 30 kg;
(d) 0.40m
2 for each animal where the average weight of
the animals in the group is more than 30 kg but less than
or equal to 50 kg;
(e) 0.55m
2 for each animal where the average weight of
the animals in the group is more than 50 kg but less than
or equal to 85 kg;
(f) 0.65m
2 for each animal where the average weight of
the animals in the group is more than 85 kg but less than
or equal to 110 kg;
(g) 1.00m
2 for each animal where the average weight of
the animals in the group is more than 110 kg.
99 The figures in the box above are
minimum requirements, the type of housing and its
management may mean that greater space allowances are
necessary. The total floor space should be adequate for
sleeping, feeding and exercising. The lying area, excluding
the dunging and exercise areas, should be of sufficient
size to allow all the pigs to lie down on their sides at
the same time.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.I. 2003 No. 488),
Schedule 6, Part VI, Paragraphs 48-51
state: 48 Weaners and rearing pigs shall be - (1) placed in groups as soon as possible
after weaning; and (2) kept in stable groups with as little
mixing as possible. 49 (1) If weaners and rearing pigs
unfamiliar with one another have to be mixed,
this should be done as at young an age as
possible, preferably before or up to one week
after weaning. (2) When weaners and rearing pigs are mixed
they shall be provided with adequate
opportunities to escape and hide from other
pigs. 50 The use of tranquillising medication in
order to facilitate mixing of weaners and
rearing pigs shall be limited to exceptional
conditions and only after consultation with a
veterinary surgeon. 51 When signs of severe fighting appear
among weaners and rearing pigs, the causes
shall be immediately investigated and
appropriate measures shall be taken. |
100 Your herd health and welfare plan
should include a strategy for managing mixing and
establishing groups of pigs. Plenty of space, sufficient
environmental enrichment and using shower sprays/sprinklers
can all help to minimise aggression at mixing. Wherever
possible, pigs for fattening should be in same sex groups
to avoid unnecessary sexual activity as gilts come into
oestrus.
Dry sows and gilts
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.I. 2003 No. 488),
Schedule 6, Part IV, Paragraphs 36-42
state: 36 Sows and gilts shall be kept in groups
except during the period between seven days
before the predicted day of farrowing and the
day on which the weaning of piglets (including
any piglets fostered) is complete. 37 The pen where the group is kept must have
sides greater than 2.8m in length, except where
there are less than 6 individuals in the group,
when the sides of the pen must be no less than
2.4m in length. 38 (1) The total unobstructed floor area
available to each gilt after service and to
each sow when such gilts or sows are kept in
groups must be at least 1.64m
2 and 2.25m
2 respectively. (2) When gilts after service or sows are
kept in groups of less than 6 individuals, the
unobstructed floor area must be increased by
10%. (3) When gilts after service or sows are
kept in groups of 40 or more individuals, the
unobstructed floor area may be decreased by
10%. 39 For gilts after service and pregnant sows
a part of the area required in Paragraph 38
equal to at least 0.95m
2 per gilt and at least 1.3m
2 per sow must be of continuous
solid floor of which a maximum of 15% is
reserved for drainage openings. 40 Sows and gilts kept on holdings of fewer
than 10 sows may be kept individually provided
that their accommodation complies with the
requirements of Paragraphs 6 and 7 of Part II
of this Schedule. 41 In addition to the requirements of
Paragraph 14 of Part II of this Schedule, sows
and gilts must be fed using a system which
ensures that each individual can obtain
sufficient food even when competitors for the
food are present. 42 All dry pregnant sows and gilts must be
given a sufficient quantity of bulky or high
fibre food as well as high energy food to
satisfy their hunger and need to chew. |
101 Innate
aggressiveness can present a severe problem where sows and
gilts are kept in groups. Much depends on the temperament
of individual animals. Adequate space is particularly
important at the time of mixing sows so that animals can
escape from aggressors. First parity sows and sows that
have lost body condition should be managed as separate
groups. Stock-keepers should ensure that persistent
bullying, which could lead to severe injury or deprivation
of food, does not take place. Separate penning may be
required for affected animals if persistent bullying
occurs.
102 Feeding facilities in which animals
can be fed individually and thereafter released are
recommended. However, if sows are fed using a system that
does not include some form of protection during feeding,
such as floor feeding, then feed must be distributed widely
and in such a way to ensure that all members of the group
can obtain their allocation.
103 Breeding sows and gilts should be fed
simultaneously wherever possible to avoid undue excitement.
Some feeding systems have been designed to feed animals
sequentially without interference from pen-mates. You need
to pay special attention to the proper functioning of such
equipment and also make sure that all members of the group
can obtain their allocation.
104 The provision of bedding in loose
housing systems for sows and gilts is strongly
recommended.
Boars
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.I. 2003 No. 488),
Schedule 6, Part III, Paragraphs 27-29 state
that: 27 Boar pens shall be sited and constructed
so as to allow the boar to turn round and to
hear, see and smell other pigs, and shall
contain clean resting areas. 28 The lying area shall be dry and
comfortable. 29 (1)The minimum unobstructed floor area
for an adult boar shall be 6m
2 save as set out in Sub-paragraph
(2). (2) When boar pens are also used for natural
service the floor area must be at least 10m
2 and must be free of any
obstacles. |
105 Walls between pens should be high
enough to prevent boars climbing and/or jumping into
adjacent pens. Pens should be sited so that boars can see
other pigs. You should not enter boar pens without a pig
board and they must be able to escape easily from the pen
if the boar becomes aggressive.
106 Boars are generally individually
housed and need either plenty of bedding material or a
closely controlled environmental temperature. Extremes of
temperature can lead to temporary infertility and may
affect a boar's willingness or ability to work
satisfactorily.
107 As a guide, individual accommodation
for an adult boar should have a floor are of not less than
7.5m
2 if used for living purposes only. Bedding
should be provided in the lying area. In a pen intended for
living purposes only, bedding should be provided in the
lying area. In a pen intended for mating purposes, the
whole floor area should be kept dry or sufficient bedding
provided to give adequate grip during service. The use of
small quantities of coarse sand on floors will reduce the
risk of slipping.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.I. 2003 No. 488),
Schedule 6, Part II Paragraph 24 states
that: Boars' tusks may be reduced in length where
necessary to prevent injuries to other animals
or for safety reasons. |
Pigs kept in outdoor husbandry
systems
General
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000 No. 1870), Schedule
1, Paragraph 17 states that: Animals not kept in buildings shall, where
necessary and possible, be given protection
from adverse weather conditions, predators and
risks to their health and shall, at all times,
have access to a well-drained lying area. |
108 Sites for outdoor pig enterprises must
be chosen carefully. Land prone to flooding, poorly drained
sites, stony (especially flinty) soils and sites with heavy
soils (especially in areas with high rainfall), are
generally unsuitable for outdoor systems. Free-draining
soils in low rainfall areas, with low frost incidence are
most suitable.
109 Field stocking densities must reflect
the suitability of the site and the system of management. A
guideline of 25 sows per hectare overall is reasonable for
suitable sites. You may need to reduce stocking densities
on less ideal sites or in extreme circumstances during
periods of adverse weather. More information can be found
in
DEFRA's booklet, "Site suitability for
outdoor pig farming" (
see the Appendix).
110 Stock selected for outdoor production
must be suitable for outdoor conditions. Most breeding
companies provide lines that have been developed for
outdoor use.
111 Your herd health and welfare plan
should include a strategy for dealing with emergency
situations such as, water provision in freezing conditions
and feed provision to the site and to the paddocks in snow
or severe wet weather.
Biosecurity
112 If you and your stock-keepers take
proper precautions when you move within the farm or you
move animals and equipment, you can greatly reduce the
chance of spreading disease (
see Paragraphs 23-28). As
stipulated in your herd health and welfare plan, you should
have isolation facilities so that you can isolate and test
incoming stock for a period when they arrive, before they
join the rest of the herd. Incoming replacement stock may
also need to be acclimatised to outdoor conditions as they
will often have been bred in indoor conditions. It is
especially important to provide warm comfortable
accommodation for these animals.
113 To prevent the build-up and transfer
of disease organisms, arks should be resited between
batches of pigs and the straw aftermath should be removed
or burned. Further detailed guidance on biosecurity can be
found in Codes of Recommendations for the Welfare of
Livestock: Animal Health and Biosecurity (
see the Appendix). There is
also a biosecurity website (
www.scotland.gov.uk/about/ERADRA/LAH/00015721/BIOSECURITY.aspx).
Accommodation
114 All arks and huts used for housing
outdoor pigs should be liberally provided with bedding and
have a warm, draught-free lying area. This is especially
important for the sow and litter at farrowing and during
the suckling period and for newly weaned pigs.
115 You should properly maintain arks and
huts, especially to ensure that damage through handling
does not produce sharp edges that may injure the
animals.
116 Adequate shelter must be provided to
protect the animals from extreme weather conditions. Arks
should be well fixed to the ground, particularly in cold
windy conditions and should be sited so that the doorways
can be adjusted to allow for changing weather
circumstances. Wet conditions create greater welfare
problems than the cold, as moisture is easily carried into
the arks on feet and bodies, causing chilling in small
piglets, and provides the ideal environment for
micro-organisms to flourish.
117 Adequate shelter must also be provided
to protect the animals from the sun in summer. Wallows
should be provided for breeding stock to allow them to cool
themselves and to produce mud which can prevent sunburn.
More information can be found in
DEFRA's booklet, "Heat stress in pigs" (
see the Appendix).
Feed and water
118 Food should be distributed widely and
evenly to minimise aggression between animals, unless an
alternative method is used to ensure even consumption.
119 You should carefully monitor the body
condition of pigs during extremes of weather and adjust
feed provision if necessary.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraph 15
requires: All pigs over 2 weeks of age must have
permanent access to a sufficient quantity of
fresh drinking water. |
120 Arrangements should be in place to
ensure the supply of water to stock in all weathers.
Particular attention is needed at times of freezing
conditions.
Fences
121 Electric fencing should be designed,
constructed, used and maintained properly, so that when the
animals touch them they only feel slight discomfort. All
power units for electric fences must be properly earthed to
prevent short circuits or electricity being conducted
anywhere it should not, for example, gates and water
troughs.
122 New breeding animals are unlikely to
have been trained to electric fencing. You should have a
training paddock with secure fencing, such as pig netting,
outside the electric fencing to help the animals see the
fencing and to ensure that they cannot escape from the
unit.
123 Every effort should be made to protect
pigs, particularly young piglets, from predation. Steps
such as a predator control programme and possibly fox
fencing should be considered.
feed and water
Farrowing sows and piglets
124 In hot conditions, lactating sows may
leave the ark to seek more comfortable conditions outside,
effectively abandoning her litter. Farrowing arks should be
insulated and have provision for some degree of extra
ventilation such as manually controlled flaps.
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part IV, Paragraph 34 states
that: Farrowing pens where sows are kept loose
must have some means of protecting the piglets,
such as farrowing rails. |
125 Farrowing arks should be sited on
level ground to reduce the risk of overlying. Suitable
restrainer boards should be used to prevent very young
piglets from straying during the post-farrowing period.
Nose ringing
The Welfare of Farmed Animals (Scotland)
Amendment Regulations 2003 (S.S.I. 2003 No.
488), Schedule 6, Part II, Paragraph 25 states
that: Nose rings may not be put in animals kept
continuously in indoor husbandry systems. |
126 Nose ringing is a mutilation and
should be avoided wherever possible. It is usually carried
out to deter excavation of the paddocks and damage to the
cover vegetation through excessive rooting. Nose ringing
can reduce the risk of environmental pollution where there
is a risk of soil erosion and leaching of nutrients from
faeces. Where it is necessary to nose ring pigs, it should
only be carried out by a veterinary surgeon or a trained,
competent operator. All equipment should be cleaned and
disinfected between pigs.
appendix
Useful Publications
A Useful publications related to pig welfare as at
September 2004
PB No. | Title |
0409 | Code of Practice - the welfare of animals in
livestock markets |
0621 | Farm fires: advice on farm animal
welfare |
1147 | Emergencies on livestock farms |
1148 | Lameness in pigs |
1316 | Heat stress in pigs - solving the
problem |
1387 | Guidance on the transport of casualty farm
animals |
2594 | Explanatory guide to the Welfare of Animals
(Slaughter or Killing) Regulations 1995 |
3480 | Condition scoring of pigs |
3575 | Assessment of practical experience in the
handling, transport and care of animals: guide
to employers |
3766 | Guidance on the Welfare of Animals
(Transport) Order 1997 |
4444 | Site suitability for outdoor pig farming |
--- | Guidance on the Transport of Animals
(Cleansing and Disinfection)(England)(No 2)
Order 2000 |
--- | Better biosecurity provides peace of mind,
healthy stock and a more viable business |
You can get copies of all these publications, free of
charge, from:
DEFRA Publications
Admail 6000
London
SW1A 2XXTelephone orders (for free publications): 0845 955 6000
Telephone enquiries: 0845 955 6000
Email: