 Original article written by Dave Lefever As of Jan. 1, Ohio swine breeders are operating under a new openpen sow housing rule that limits the use of gestation crates. The new regulation allows breeding/gestation stalls to be used only during post-weaning for a period of time that “seeks to maximize embryonic welfare and allows for the confirmation of pregnancy." The Ohio Pork Council supports the rule developed by Ohio veterinarians, animal scientists and farmers. “Ohio pig farmers have been preparing for these open-pen gestation requirements for years by investing in facilities and fine-tuning management practices that support sow wellbeing, all while maintaining the flexibility to address individual animal needs,” the council said in a press release. More than a decade ago, Ohio voters approved the creation of the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board, establishing the first state-led, science-based system in the country to set livestock housing and care standards, according to the council. The state’s sow housing standards were developed with input from accredited veterinarians, animal welfare scientists, and pig farmers. The resulting regulation supports open-pen gestation systems while allowing farmers and veterinarians to make individualized care decisions when needed for animal health, safety or recovery, according to the council. “The group-housing standards taking effect are part of a thoughtful, Ohio-led approach to animal care — one that puts animal health first,” said Cheryl Day, executive vice president of the council. Original article published on Lancasterfarming.com swinesowpigComments are closed.
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