Are you hauling hogs in the coming days? Forecasts across the province predict temperatures reaching above 30-degrees Celsius and even upwards of 40-degrees Celsius.
Unlike humans, pigs are not able to regulate their body temperature by sweating. If you are hauling hogs, check out our Hauling Hogs in Extreme Heat fact sheet to learn what to do, and what not to do, during this naturally stressful time.
Last year, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) implemented updated humane transport requirements under the Health of Animals Regulations, as part of the Health of Animals Act. Of note in this case are the requirements for feed, water and rest. Additionally, the National Farm Animal Care Council’s (NFACC) Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Pigs Section 8.6 includes recommendations for hog transport.
It is important that anyone transporting pigs is familiar with all requirements and recommendations prior to embarking on a road trip. Please take care to review this information before heading out, and before the situation becomes urgent.
For questions about hog transport in Alberta, including the Transport Quality Assurance (TQA) program, please contact Cristina Neva, Quality Assurance and Production Specialist, Alberta Pork by email at cristina.neva@albertapork.com or by phone at 780-440-8459, toll-free at 1-877-247-PORK (7675).
