Page 19 of articles about management in Articles

During the last 10 years we have been trying to optimize the different Batch Management systems (BM), searching for the most effective system. We had come to the conclusion that each one of the different traditional BM options had their pros and cons, and neither is better or worse than the other. Electing the best system depends on the necessities and the calibration of space on each particular farm. However, we have recently “discovered” a new BM option that opens the door to new possibilities.

In swine, dystocia is usually caused by oversized piglets (or by a narrow birth canal) instead of foetal positioning problems.

A correct supervision is one of the key points of a farrowing.

Deciding which sows are going to be weaned on weaning day is an important task that should be examined well.

In order to follow the evolution of the pigs at weaning and fattening, having a growth curve is very practical.

Here we present a new section about the economics of swine disease: the first presentation is about the economic benefits of disease control in swine barns.

Adjustment of replacement on farms working on 3-week batch system.

In the last chapter we examined the advantages of positioning crates facing inwards and outwards. Now we are going to explore two other options: Aisles both in front and behind the crates and crates on both sides of the aisle.

The most common problems are due to interference with maternal antibodies and coincidence of vaccination with a recirculation of PRRS: viremic animals.

Working with compound feeds allow to cover completely the animals' needs, taking full advantage of their use.

When designing farrowing rooms, sows can be placed in different ways: facing inwards, facing outwards, with aisles both in front and behind the crate, or on both sides of the aisle.

Next we will consider some aspects that can be taken into account in order to adjust the day to induce farrowing.

On many farms the introduction of gilts is not homogenous. However, the introduction of a similar number of gilts to each productive batch would be ideal. How can we do this?

The gestation period in the majority of sows is usually around 113 to 115 days. However, a percentage of sows can farrow normally up to 3 days before or after.

In order to try to control the environment, it is important: - Be able to evaluate it. - Be familiar with the needs of different types of animals. - Implement corrective measures to adapt to those needs.

Is the lighting in warehouses up to standard? Are the manipulable materials the right ones?