Managing outdoor pigs through summer heat waves requires proactive welfare measures including mud wallows, shade structures, and water provision to prevent heat stress and sunburn.
Summer heat management for outdoor pigs requires anticipatory planning rather than reactive intervention. Once a pig shows severe heat stress signs - lateral recumbency, rapid shallow breathing, blue discoloration - welfare compromise is already significant. The welfare-positive approach is to ensure shade, wallows, and water are available before hot weather arrives and are maintained throughout summer. Checking outdoor pigs in the hottest part of the day is essential.