Animal-friendly pig husbandry: an advisory tool for Swaziland

Summary in the original language of the document

Recommendations are given considering not only the performance but also the species needs. Topics discussed include; basic requirements according to age groups and needs, natural behaviour of pigs and resulting requirements, temperature and climate requirements, housing comparison, basic elements of pig feeding, body condition scoring, a planning outline for six sow units, including recommended questions to be discussed with the farmer.
The tool emphasizes the importance of considering animal welfare, producing on-farm feed therefore closing the system, and that prevention of problems and disease is better than cure.
This tool is not specific to organic farming but the techniques discussed often agree with organic farming techniques. The tool is aimed at farm advisors but is just as relevant for farmers. It was developed for use in advisory services in Swaziland but information provided is widely applicable across all climate zones.