The implications of transport stress on the welfare and health of pigs

Abstract

In veterinary medical practice and in semi-intensive/intensive farming of farm animals, concern for their welfare is essential for the commercial success and sustainability of all production systems. It is widely accepted and recognized the importance of the multiple and intricate interrelationships between physical health and productive and reproductive performance in livestock and how stress in its various forms can adversely affect them. The 10 dominant consequences identified as relevant to pig welfare during transport are described and presented in this article.