Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Acute Disease Recognition and Response

Rapid recognition and response to disease in pigs minimizes suffering and prevents welfare deterioration across affected groups.

Key Facts

Common acute diseases in pigs include PRRS, PED, ASF, and swine influenza
Early detection within 24-48 hours of signs significantly reduces mortality and suffering
Stockpeople training in disease recognition is a core welfare intervention
Biosecurity failures are the primary route of entry for acute disease
Emergency response protocols including isolation, treatment, and reporting are essential

Welfare Considerations

Disease is one of the most significant sources of suffering in pig production. Robust surveillance, trained stockpeople, and rapid response systems are fundamental to minimizing disease-related welfare compromise.

What You Can Do

Support livestock disease surveillance programs and early warning systems
Advocate for mandatory stockperson welfare training in all pig operations
Choose pork from farms with demonstrated biosecurity and disease management standards