Pig Farming

November 30 2009

Do you know what it's like to be happy as a pig in mud? Believe it or not, the majority of pigs in Australia don't.

In fact, most pigs in Australia will never take a step in the outdoors. They can't root in the dirt, wallow in the mud or forage for food.

But the biggest welfare problem facing Australian pigs is the use of sow stalls and farrowing crates.

 

Did you know?

• Pigs are highly intelligent and social animals.
• Pigs have regularly out-performed dogs in learning tests.
• Pigs are curious animals and if living free-range will spend hours each day exploring the outdoors.
• Pigs are very clean. When living in a shed they will push all the straw to one end for sleeping and use the other end as a toilet.
• Pigs naturally form small groups and develop strong bonds.

Intensive Pig Farming - a cycle of frustration

• View 60 Minutes story - The Hidden Truth behind Australia's pig farming industry
• What is the RSPCA doing to get pigs outs of sow stalls?
• What are the animal welfare issues associated with pig farming?
• What are the RSPCA Approved Farming standards for pigs?