Research

Program 1 - Confinement-free Sow and Piglet Management

Program Leader : Dr Ray King (RHK Consulting)

The research will reduce and ultimately eliminate the need for sow confinement during farrowing, lactation and gestation through the development of innovative housing, breeding and suckling systems. Research outputs will also enhance the welfare and future productivity of piglets through a “gradual” weaning process that stimulates immunity and gut development of the piglet whilst reducing stress.

Research will cover three core areas:

Subprogram 1A - Mating and Lactation Innovations

Subprogram Leader : Professor George Foxcroft (University of Alberta)

Mating and Lactation Innovations will develop novel techniques for inducing ovulation in sows during lactation and new breeding strategies that are consistent with a  reduction or ultimate elimination of sow confinement during lactation and the subsequent gestation, and improved production efficiency.

Subprogram 1B - Gradual Weaning Systems

Subprogram Leader : Associate Professor John Pluske (Murdoch University).
 
Gradual Weaning Systems will use controlled separation of the sow and piglet during lactation without compromising welfare to reduce weaning stress and eliminate the post weaning growth check. Gradual weaning technologies including new housing systems, multi-suckling strategies and the development of nutritional supplements will ensure optimal gut integrity and high levels of piglet immunity that enhance piglet quality and optimise lifetime productivity
 
Subprogram 1C - Management of Sows in Groups

Subprogram Leader : Professor Paul Hemsworth (University of Melbourne)

Management of Sows in Groups investigates the complex and challenging interactions between sows housed in groups. Development of optimum management procedures for group housed sows while accommodating their individual requirements for nutrition, maintenance of health and well-being is required


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