Swine Behavior and Restraint

is the process of preventing an animal from action or motion.

Animal Restraint

Reasons for restraining animal

For examination, treatment, and milking

How to achieve restraint

simply by moral persuasion, by physical force and by chemical means.

How to handle pigs

Non-slip flooring is essential. Use flags, paddles, and panels as primary aids. Avoid frequent electric prod use. Move pigs in small groups (5-6) to prevent turning, bunching, or piling.

Handling piglets

Pick up piglets by the hind leg, support chest, avoid swinging, never by the ear. Herd with noise shakers and sorting board, using flight zone principles.

Handling grower/finisher

Work in pairs, move small groups, use flight zone and sorting board, ensure a clear, well-lit path, and move calmly. Avoid kicking and using sticks/prods, and watch for fatigue.

Handling boars

Minimize aggression, move load individually, separate pens to prevent injury, and allow time for boars to adjust.

Handling sows

Older, larger sows need extra time to adjust. Move/load 2-3 at a time and use caution with aggressive sows, especially during their reproductive cycle.

Restraining piglets

Lift piglets by the back leg, support the chest, and hold firmly, or place over your forearm with legs hanging.

Restraining pigs

Ensure a proper work area, apply pressure to keep pigs still, and act quickly. Use a snare only if needed, with a trained handler, placing the loop over the top jaw and tightening with assistance. Release the pig by loosening and removing the snare, avoiding prolonged restraint, moving, or tying the pig with it.

Swine characteristics

• Gregarious and social animals

• Panoramic vision

• Follow each other

• Maintain visual and body contact

• Inquisitive nature

• Very susceptible to hot temp. or conditions

Normal swine behavior

• Grunt/bark when agitated

• Squeal loudly when restrained or frightened

• Strong natural urge to escape

• Gaps between pens, alleys, ramps, side gates, and chutes

• Often injure themselves

Do not restrain for _______ period of time

prolonged

Do not move pig with ________

snare

Do not ___ up pig up with snare

tie