On-farm pig dispatch methods and stockpeople attitudes on their use

Abstract

This study surveyed the on-farm dispatching methods used at pig farms, the characteristics of stockpeople operating them, in terms of training and management, and their opinions and attitudes about the efficiency and safety of the applied procedures. Independently of the pig type, the most used dispatching methods at the surveyed Brazilian farms were concussion (90%) and electrocution (5%). Both methods were reported as being efficient and safe for on-farm pig dispatching by most stockpeople (83%). However, 33% of all stockpeople reported they would prefer to use alternative methods, i.e., anesthetics (23%) or electrocution (32%). Only 7% of the stockpeople received training resulting in a more efficient application of the method (P < 0.05). Most stockpeople (96%) declared to feel uncomfortable with the dispatching procedure they use. This discomfort lasted for half a day or longer in 22% of them. The results of this survey suggest that the application of dispatching methods at pig farms may result in animal welfare issues related to the effectiveness of the methods and the attitudes of stockpeople.