Читать книгу Veterinary Treatment of Pigs - Graham R Duncanson - Страница 85

As stated earlier, baby pigs are easy to handle in a similar way to small dogs. It should be remembered that sows with suckling pigs could be extremely aggressive; therefore it is advisable to have the sow well contained and maybe even out of earshot when handling her offspring.

Fig. 1.28. Wallows are essential.

Bigger pigs present a much harder handling problem. A strong person can lift a 35 kg pig by the hind legs; the ventral surface of the pig should be towards the handler. The handler’s legs should grip the forequarters of the pig.

Although they are pets it is useful to have a crate of some type, e.g. a farrowing crate or an old weighing crate, to contain pigs for handling and examination. If a crate is not available then larger pigs can be to some extent controlled by pig boards. It should be remembered that even very friendly pigs will endeavour to escape constantly. The ultimate method of control is a wire pig nose twitch. This should be placed on the upper jaw behind the canine teeth. The pig will try constantly to pull back and the wire, which is often in a hollow tube, should be kept under tension. Owners should be warned that pigs are very vocal and the noise is not in proportion to the level of pain. With big pigs owners should be warned of the danger of being bitten, savaged or knocked down.

Fig. 1.29. Transport in Ecuador. This would be illegal in the UK.

Examination of large pigs is not easy as they often resent handling. Quietness is vital for auscultation of the heart, lungs and abdomen. Patience will allow palpation of the abdomen, mammary glands and feet. Rectal temperature is an extremely useful diagnostic sign in the pig; the normal is 39°C. The lack of hair allows a good examination of the pig’s skin. Mucous membranes are best examined in the mouth, as the eyes are somewhat sunken. Pigs are highly intelligent animals; the owner’s observations on behavioural changes and demeanour are well worth recording.