Sow housing during gestation:
Sows may be housed in individual stalls from weaning to service.
Sows may be housed in individual stalls for a maximum of the first eight weeks of gestation.
Sow stalls must be constructed so that
They are free of any objects /projections which could cause injury to the sow
When standing the sow’s back must not touch the top bars of the crate, nor should
her sides be in contact simultaneously with both sides of the crate
Sows must be housed in groups or in individual pens for a minimum of the last eight weeks prior to being moved to farrowing accommodation.
Sows may only be moved to farrowing accommodation a maximum of 7 days prior to due
date.
any new pig buildings must provide the minimum group housing or individual pens for a period of 8 weeks in the second half of gestation
Sows in stalls must be inspected daily for disease, lameness or any other problems and
treated promptly and appropriately.
Sows in stalls must have easy access to water at all times and must receive food according to
her body condition at appropriate intervals.
Water systems such as nipples must be checked daily to be in working order
Individually penned sows must be able to turn around comfortably and be able to fully
stretch out when lying down.
Group housed sows must have a minimum space of 2.25 m² per sow
Individual pens must be long and wide enough to allow a sow to lie fully stretched out; and
wide enough to allow a sow to turn around easily.
Group housed pregnant gilts must have at least 1.5 m² per gilt
There must be enough feeding space or feed must be spread in such a manner that all sows have access to feed. If automatic sow feeders are used, regular inspection is necessary to
make sure that all sows get the opportunity to enter the feeding station.
