Routine procedures in pigs

Handling

• Pigs should be handled quietly to avoid stress.
• Electric prodders, plastic pipes and dogs must not be used on pigs.
• Use backing boards to move pigs.
• Don’t lift pigs by their ears or legs, unless they are fully supported.

Restraint

• Small pigs can be held by hand or when bigger, squeezed up behind doors or gates.
• Mature pigs are best handled in a crate.
• Pigs can also be held by a noose over the upper jaw. Pigs hate this so it’s a good idea to wear ear protection to dampen noise.

Castration

• This may not be necessary if pigs grow quickly and are slaughtered before boar problems develop (fighting, meat taint).
• Where needed, a skilled operator should do it, no later than 7 days of age.
• Castration of pigs over 7 days old should only be carried out by a vet. 

Tusk trimming

• These can be trimmed, especially on boars that are potentially aggressive.
• Pigs attack by both biting and swiping upwards using their protruding tusks.
• Get a skilled person to do the job as correct restraining the animal is critical.
• The tusks don't have much nerve or blood supply so they shouldn't bleed when cut.
• If not done properly, the trimmed tusk can still be very sharp and dangerous.

Nose ringing

• This will stop the pig rooting up pastures when grazing.
• The nose is a very sensitive area and the operation causes pain which the pig will remember and associate with you.
• It must be done properly in the cartilage on the top of the snout or in the tissue separating the two nostrils.
• Get veterinary help to avoid stress and personal injury.

Clipping piglet’s needle teeth

• These small sharp canine teeth can cut the sow’s teats and damage litter mates.
• If performed, teeth clipping of piglets must be carried out before 3 days of age and preferably within 6 hours of birth.
• No more than one third of the tooth should be removed.
• Use sharp clippers and avoid shattering the tooth or damaging the gums or mouth.
• Seek professional assistance to avoid stressing the young piglets, and make sure the sow is restrained when doing it or she will attack you when the piglets squeal.

Tail docking

• This should be a last resort if the causes of tail biting can’t be found.
• A skilled operator should remove a third to a half of the tail.
• Seek veterinary help as bleeding and infection can occur.
• If performed, it must be carried out before 3 days of age and preferably within 6 hours of birth.

Identification

• Ear notching should be done before 3 days of age and preferably within 6 hours of birth. Disinfect equipment during use.