Stockperson skill, attitude, and knowledge are the most critical determinants of farm animal welfare, with human-animal relationships profoundly affecting pig welfare outcomes.
Stockperson quality is the single most important determinant of pig welfare on commercial farms. Facilities, genetics, and management systems can all be optimal but poor stockpersonship undermines every other welfare investment. Prioritising stockperson training, wellbeing, and attitudes is the highest-leverage welfare intervention.