Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How do Western Australian pig farmers manage their herds?
By Robertson, I D et al.·Published in Australian veterinary journal·1991·School of Veterinary Studies, Australia·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: The adoption of management and husbandry procedures by Western Australian pig farmers.
Plain-English summary
A survey was sent out to 101 pig farmers in Western Australia to find out how they manage and care for their pigs. Out of those, 77 farmers responded, and the results showed that more than 80% of them vaccinated their breeding pigs against diseases like leptospirosis and erysipelas. Additionally, 72% of farmers added antibiotics to their pigs' diets, and 60% used injectable antibiotics. More than half of the farmers said they regularly consulted a veterinarian, but many farms were close to each other, which could lead to disease spreading between herds. The study suggests that veterinarians could play a key role in helping farmers improve disease control and adopt new technologies.
Abstract
A postal survey was conducted to determine the management and husbandry procedures adopted by a sample of 101 Western Australian pig farmers. Seventy seven replies were received and analysed. Over 80% of farmers vaccinated breeding stock against leptospirosis and erysipelas, 35% vaccinated against parvo virus and 15% vaccinated against Escherichia coli. Most farmers used antibiotics: 72% incorporated them into their pig diets and 60% used parenteral antibiotics. Fifty three per cent of farmers reported that they regularly used a veterinarian. Over 59% of piggeries had another piggery located within 10 km, thus increasing the possibility for disease transmission between herds. It is concluded that there is potential for veterinarians to offer advice to pig farmers, particularly on disease control measures and adoption of technological advances.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1953561/