Pigs

So what are your thoughts on this, Mark? What can simple small pig farmers do to keep our porkers safe from contracting this virus?”

Outbreak of Deadly Piglet Virus Spreads to 13 States

That is an excellent question and it strikes at the heart of basic pig husbandry.  A strong immune system is the key to prevention.

1) Make sure they have space, fresh air, good bedding, dry ground as well as a wallow.

2) Make sure your feed is separated from their dirty little feet as much as possible (they are pigs and can’t help it!). 

3) If in doubt our first line is biochar (which Joe makes for us), which acts like activated charcoal and provides a double good when we’ve innoculated it first so that its full of good bacteria that strengthen the immune system.

The other thing to look at is your breed of pig. Heritage pigs of any strain have stronger immune systems than the hog house white pigs. They resist parasites and diseases that the others simply aren’t bred to resist anymore. It’s the difference between a layer hen and a broiler chicken.

Come learn more about good hog husbandry at Hog Harvest Days!