January 28, 2019
Are Sows Motivated for Movement?
The Canadian Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Pigs requires that as of July 1, 2024, all mated gilts and sows must be housed in groups, or individual pens. Mated gilts and sows may also be housed in existing stall barns if they are provided with the opportunity to turn around or exercise periodically, or other means that allow a greater freedom of movement. What constitutes ‘greater freedom of movement’ and the suitable options to meet this Code requirement must be clarified, by July 2019, as informed by scientific evidence, however at present there is minimal scientific evidence to address this question. The objective of study is to provide scientific information to be used as a basis for this recommendation.
