Ref Code: PIG15

Category      

Teaching - 2

Research - 4

Objective

To determine whether a sow is in standing oestrus in the presence of a boar.

Alternatives to animal use for teaching

Video presentations

Details of procedure

Run the sow into the boar's pen or into the mating pen with the boar. The mating pen should be large and have a non slip surface, as well as no protuberances such as drinkers, to reduce the risk of injury to boar or sow. Allow the boar to approach the sow and attempt to mount. Under normal circumstances this may take up to two minutes. If the sow does not stand still for the boar, separate the boar and the sow and remove her quickly from the pen. Similarly, if the sow attempts to bite or fight the boar, separate them.

If the oestrus detection is for the purpose of AI, separate the sow and the boar before service has commenced.

Drugs, chemicals, or biological agents

Nil

Impact of procedure on the wellbeing of animal(s)

Nil, if appropriate care is taken.

Reuse and repeated use

Sows should be tested twice per day. Repeated use at more frequent intervals reduces the validity of the test.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

Care to ensure animals are not injured by dust, trauma or falling on slippery floors.

Pain relief measures

Nil

Qualifications, experience or training necessary to perform this procedure

Demonstrators: Should be familiar with the correct techniques and the behaviour of the boar and sow before attempting this procedure.

Procedures should be clearly demonstrated before attempted by students.

Ensure students are aware of the dangers of close handling of boars.