The Ethical and Welfare Implications of Large Litter Size in the Domestic Pig: Challenges and Solutions

By K.M.D. Rutherford, E.M. Baxter, B. Ask, P. Berg, R.B. DEath, S. Jarvis, K. K. Jensen, A. B. Lawrence, V. A. Moustsen, S.K. Robson, R. Roehe, F. Thorup, S.P. Turner & P. Sandøe (2011)
Danish Centre for Bioethics and Risk Assessment & SAC (Scottish Agricultural College). Danish Centre for Bioethics and Risk Assessment Project report 17 

Abstract

Driven by production efficiency, increasing litter size has long been a goal of pig producers, although this trend has accelerated in the past 15 years, particularly in Denmark and in other countries such as Holland, Germany and France. 

This report aims to review the pertinent scientific and practical evidence on sow and piglet welfare in relation to large litter size, and discusses the relevant ethical issues in order to inform a societal debate about the ethical acceptability of large litter size. In addition, possible approaches to mitigating health and welfare issues associated with large litter are identified.

The Ethical and Welfare Implications of Large Litter Size in the Domestic Pig: Challenges and Solutions (pdf)

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