Castration of male pigs is a long-held, proven practice. It is performed to avoid boar taint in the meat of sexually mature males as well as reduce aggression toward other pigs and people. Cheryl Day shares alternatives to physical castration, challenges, breeding selections and the regulatory environment. Source: National Hog Farmer, September 2016, page 12. For hog … [Read more...]
Seneca Valley Virus; it isn’t over yet
Since January 2016, more than 60 positive accessions of the Seneca Valley Virus (SVV), or Senecavirus A, have been reported by labs across the United States. New cases appear to be showing up more rapidly as the summer goes on. An informative photo gallery about SVV is provided with this update. Source: National Hog Farmer, July 25, 2016. SVV is not a limited production … [Read more...]
5 noteworthy discussions from the World Pork Expo
Cheryl Day provides an overview of topics important to the swine industry. This information is a good answer to, “What did you learn at the WPX?” It provides insight into challenges swine producers face. Source: National Hog Farmer, July 2016, page 30. Day summarizes: Pork Quality Assurance Plus program 3.0 Pork, the Other White Meat lawsuit pending Waters of the … [Read more...]
World Pork Expo photo gallery
Networking, showcasing innovation and educating are the mainstays of the World Pork Expo. This year was no exception. This photo gallery offers a flavor of the festivities. You may see some folks you know. I did. Source: National Hog Farmer, June 10, 2016. World Pork Expo’s extensive trade show makes it easy to shop and compare new products and technologies for use on the … [Read more...]
Sponsored Content – Benefits of an isotonic protein drink for pigs
This piece offers high-level look at recent field trials conducted by Tonsity on the impact of incorporating an isotonic protein drink for pigs into today’s swine production practices. Source: National Hog Farmer, June 9, 2016. Very few studies have been published to show the benefits of oral rehydration therapy (ORT) in swine. Historically, the principles of ORT — simple … [Read more...]
World Pork Expo kicks off next month
There is more to the World Pork Expo than hogs walking around a show ring. It is a destination worthy of consideration for any animal health professional, especially those working in swine markets. The show can help open your eyes to industry changes on the way. If you plan to be near Des Moines, Iowa, June 8 to 10, consider adding it to your plans. Source: National Hog … [Read more...]
FDA targets Carbadox for removal from swine production
Carbadox, the active ingredient in Mecadox ®, a Phibro Animal Health product, helps U.S. hog producers safely control bacterial diseases in early growth stages of pigs. Last week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration took the first steps to take this valuable pharmaceutical away from the swine industry. Tom Burkgren, DVM and executive director of the American Association of … [Read more...]
It’s all in the genes
Cheryl Day’s team at National Hog Farmer has dedicated the April issue to the topic of genetics and the management of these blueprints to strengthen pig production. What follows her opening notes is an issue full of insight and perspective on managing swine genetics. Source: National Hog Farmer, April 2016. Blueprint focus. Developing quality swine genetics can boost the … [Read more...]
3 tips for swine production success
Tim Loula, DVM, highlights three management practices for pig producers to be successful in the new parameters being placed upon the industry. He was one of four speakers at a Hubbard Feeds Swine Production Seminar in Okoboji, Iowa. Source: National Hog Farmer, March 24, 2016. Tim Loula, DVM, says it is imperative to get ahead of the curve. He outlined the following three … [Read more...]
Swine Disease Matrix prioritizes pathogens of threat
Much is written about disaster planning. Yet, producers and veterinarians are seldom prepared for disease outbreaks or disasters. The Center for Food Security and Public Health at the College of Veterinary Medicine of Iowa State University announced a comprehensive set of tools to address this. Fact sheets offer information about each disease are ready for immediate use in the … [Read more...]
Biosurveillance vital to swine industry
Technological advancements support increasing biosurveillance activities to react more rapidly to disease outbreaks. Understanding active and passive disease surveillance processes is critical for marketing and sales personnel working in the swine segment. Building the network of communication is well underway. This article indicates developments will strengthen the network, … [Read more...]
Swine research review, 2015
Genetic markers for PRRS, foaming manure, bump feeding sows and testicle temperature in boars are just a few of the research articles featured in this issue. If you’re involved in swine health, this is a good overview of the hot topics and trends in 2015 and 2016. Source: National Hog Farmer, December 2015. Research reviews from across Canada and the US in 2015. … [Read more...]
Ag research should not be a mere afterthought
You don’t have to be a swine DVM or hog farmer to appreciate the message in this story. A large-scale health and economics problem, applied science, collaboration and dedication underscore the topic of PRRS-resistant pigs in this blog entry. Congratulations to many professionals who have remained focused on “finding a way” for the last two to three decades. This type of … [Read more...]
Invest in pig health and get a big ROI
ROI discussions are often challenging for representatives and veterinary teams who work with pork production personnel, ownership and facilities. Producers working to increase their revenue often cut-back on medical costs. Information in this article may be valuable to restart a conversation with clients or customers waffling on preventative and disease prevention measures. … [Read more...]
America’s pig farmer – doing it right
It is easy to forget that people anchor quality meat production. This article celebrates a more traditional pig farmer who is also the first recipient of the Pig Farmer of the Year award, Keith Schoemetter. This article is a refreshing perspective on environmental stewardship, animal health, community involvement and employee management. Source: National Hog Farmer, November … [Read more...]