Ref Code: PIG20

Category   

Teaching - 2

Research - 4

Objective

Removing the end of the tail has proved effective in reducing the incidence of tail biting in pigs. Tail docking should only be performed in pigs less than two weeks of age, preferably in the first two days of life.

Alternatives to animal use for teaching

Video presentation. Procedure may be demonstrated on stillborn piglets.

Tails should only be docked as part of a normal husbandry program.

Details of procedure

Piglets should be restrained during tail docking to ensure that the procedure is carried out quickly and cleanly. They may be held aloft supported under the belly or held between the knees. Instruments (often small electrical sidecutters) should be disinfected between piglets. It is important to remove the tip of the tail, although many farmers remove more, leaving approximately 15mm of tail.

Drugs, chemicals, or biological agents

Nil

Impact of procedure on the wellbeing of animal(s)

The procedure is well tolerated.

Reuse and Repeated Use

Tails to be cut once, piglets to be returned to sow.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

Observe for the following few hours for signs of excessive bleeding from the wounds, and over the following days for signs of infection.

Pain relief measures

Nil.

Qualifications, experience or training necessary to perform this procedure

Demonstrators: Should be familiar with the correct techniques and the anatomy of the pig before attempting this procedure.

Procedures should be clearly demonstrated before being attempted by students.

Students should be closely supervised.