A Multidisciplinary Approach to Assess the Welfare of Weaned Pigs During Transport at Three Space Allowances
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
2010 |
Authors: |
Mhairi A. Sutherland, Pamela J. Bryer, Brittany L. Davis, John J. McGlone |
Publication/Journal: |
Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science |
Keywords: |
pigs, transport, welfare |
ISBN: |
1088-8705 |
Abstract:
Transport can be a stressful experience for pigs, especially in pigs simultaneously experiencing weaning stress. The objective of this study was to use a multidisciplinary approach to assess the welfare of weaned pigs during transport at 3 space allowances. A commercial semitrailer, fitted with compartments, provided 0.05, 0.06, and 0.07 m2/pig. The study recorded frequency of standing, lying, sitting, and standing-rearing on another pig during the entire duration of transport. Blood samples, body weights, and lesion scores were collected from a subset of pigs (n = 48 per space allowance) in each experimental compartment. Transport time for the pigs was 148.0 ± 10.0 min to the wean-to-finishing site. Total white blood cell counts, cortisol, and several blood chemistry values increased (p < .05) after transport regardless of space allowance. Glucose and body weight decreased (p < .05) after transport regardless of space allowance. Space allowance influenced stand-rearing, sitting, standing, and lying behaviors in pigs. Combining behavioral and physiological measures of stress provides a robust picture of piglet welfare during transport at different space allowances.