The basics of managing gilts for optimum pig production and longevity are well known. But successfully applying them requires meticulous attention to details, according to Jake Schwartz, DVM, Swine Vet Center.
Environmentally controlled hog facilities eliminated most swine parasites. But roundworm continues to persevere on some conventional farms and frequently on farms for niche markets.
Markets for pork produced without antibiotics continue to grow. But this method of production is not for every farm, cautions Michael Pierdon, VMD, veterinarian with Four Star Veterinary Service.
Ventilation systems need regular check-ups to prevent environmental issues that can compromise pig health. Winter audits are especially important, with ventilation running at low levels with little room for error.
No matter how many times you think you know all the diseases, new diseases pop up and remind you, ‘Oh, there’s stuff out there you’ve never seen before,’ says Daniel Gascho, DVM.
A field trial evaluating iron supplementation for baby pigs found the typical 200 mg iron shot at birth is not enough. Here’s what Brittney Scales, DVM, learned when a client wanted to compare different methods.
High wean-to-finish mortality continues to trouble the pork industry. While lowering rates is possible, it’s not easy, reported Ryan Strobel, DVM, and Chris Sievers, DVM, with Swine Vet Center, St. Peter, Minn.
While their schooling focused on pigs, veterinarians spend a lot of time working with clients and members of their staff. After all, they must carry out a veterinarian’s health or production plan for the pigs.
