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All pig members should have now received a copy of the latest amendments to the RSPCA welfare standards for pigs. These changes will be incorporated into the revised edition of the standards that will be published in January 2010.
The on-going process of reviewing standards, undertaken in consultation with groups and individuals from the farming industry, veterinary profession and welfare research sector has resulted in the addition and amendment of several standards and guidance notes.
So what has changed? Well, the RSPCA have made a number of key changes, but two of the more notable changes are in relation to Veterinary Health Plans (VHPs) and the use of farrowing crates.
The section relating to health planning has been updated in an attempt to make VHPs more dynamic, site-specific and meaningful documents. Certain conditions, such as the body condition of sows, the incidence of tail-biting, the incidence and type of lameness, and pre-weaning mortality levels– amongst others – are now required to be listed within the VHP, and the incidence of them recorded. Also, for those health and welfare conditions likely to affect the herd as a whole – a prevention and treatment plan must be designed and implemented in conjunction with a vet.
It is not intended for these new standards to require much, if any, additional work on part of the producer or their vet. Most producers will already have these measures in place. It is merely intended to pull all this information together in one place, which should ultimately save members and assessors time when their assessment comes around.
The RSPCA farm animals department has developed a pro-forma, available on request, to help producers see how this information may be presented in a VHP. However if, you have your own VHP that already has this information and it is working well for you, then it is perfectly acceptable to continue to use this.
The RSPCA wrote to Freedom Food’s members on 8th January 2009 to notify them of amendments that would be coming into effect in relation to farrowing crates. From 23rd January 2010, new producers will not be allowed to use conventional farrowing crates at any time. Existing members of the scheme will be allowed to use farrowing systems that closely confine the sow for up to five days after farrowing, until 31st December 2013.
The RSPCA periodically reviews and updates its welfare standards, to take account of the latest scientific research, veterinary knowledge and practical innovations and developments, thereby ensuring that standards continue to represent ‘best practice’ in livestock care.
Should you have any questions about the changes to the welfare standards, or indeed would like a copy, please contact the RSPCA Farm Animals Department. Any queries relating to the operation of the scheme (e.g. administration, assessments etc.) should be directed to Freedom Food. |
