On-farm euthanasia of injured or sick pigs that cannot be transported to slaughter is a critical welfare practice that requires appropriate training, equipment, and oversight.
On-farm euthanasia is one of the highest-stakes welfare moments in pig farming. A pig that cannot be moved, is severely injured, or is in acute pain that cannot be relieved has a right to immediate, humane death. Delay — through reluctance to kill, waiting for a vet, or economic calculation about whether recovery is possible — extends suffering directly. Inadequate training produces botched euthanasia attempts: improperly positioned captive bolt shots, insufficient electrical current, or non-penetrating blows that stun without killing, leaving animals to regain consciousness. The culture of pig farming must normalise rapid, competent euthanasia as an act of care, not failure. Regular training refreshers and clear decision protocols are essential.