Enhancing biosecurity and welfare of pigs during transport
A previous project examined the development of a new prototype trailer design aimed to protect animals (such as high-value breeding stock) from airborne transmissible diseases during transport. This design tried to integrate as many features as possible identified by stakeholders. This initial prototype was a first attempt at developing an entirely new platform for animal transport, however it still requires additional work before it can be widely adapted and commercialized. This subsequent work involved trailer improvements focused on better environmental control and data logging systems as well the addition or modification of necessary features such as drinkers, misters, and lighting in the animal compartment of the trailer.
Two aspects of trailer modification included: 1) modification of the instrumentation systems; and, 2) physical or structural modifications of the trailer. A new and more versatile environmental control system was developed. The system has independent and separate controls for the top and bottom deck fans and will be governed by temperature, RH and CO2 levels inside the trailer. The new system includes more reliable data logging features that are capable of displaying data in real-time, allowing the driver to access the data, or bypass the system, while in transit. After completion of trailer modification work, the new re-designed prototype will be subjected to further testing to evaluate its performance.
Enhancing biosecurity and welfare of pigs during transport (full article)
