Handling of Pigs (Field Application Guide)

1. Objectives of Pig Handling

• To safely restrain pigs for examination, treatment, vaccination, transport, or management practices
• To minimize stress and injury to both animals and handlers
• To ensure efficient farm operations

2. General Principles of Handling

• Keep pigs calm and avoid panic
• Avoid loud noise, shouting, or sudden movements
• Handle pigs in small groups or individually
• Use non-slip flooring to prevent injuries
• Always approach pigs from the side (not directly from behind or front)
• Use proper restraint tools instead of force

3. Methods of Handling

A. Physical Control (Manual Handling)

• Used for piglets and small pigs
• Lift piglets by:
• Holding hind legs, or
• Supporting chest and abdomen
• Avoid lifting large pigs manually (risk of injury)

B. Restraining (Controlling) Methods

Used for treatment, vaccination, minor procedures

Common Techniques

• Holding pig against a wall
• Using snout control (nose restraint)
• Using ropes or pig catcher

C. Casting (Immobilization)

• Used when pig needs to be fully restrained (lying position)
• Required for:
• Surgical procedures
• Hoof trimming
• Detailed examination

4. Tools / Equipment Used

1. Pig Catcher (Snare)

• Most common tool for controlling pigs
• Consists of a metal loop attached to a handle
• Loop is placed around upper jaw behind tusks (snout)
• Tightened to control movement

2. Nose Rope / Snout Rope

• Strong rope used around snout
• Placed behind upper jaw/tusks
• Provides firm control during handling

3. Nose Ring

• Permanent or semi-permanent control method
• Helps in handling aggressive pigs/boars
• Also prevents rooting behavior

4. Boards / Panels

• Used to guide movement of pigs
• Prevents animals from escaping
• Useful for group handling

5. Materials Required

• Pig catcher (snare)
• Strong ropes (nylon/cotton)
• Nose rings (if required)
• Wooden/plastic boards
• Gloves and protective gear

6. Procedure of Handling Using Pig Catcher (Stepwise)

1. Prepare equipment before approaching pig
2. Approach pig calmly from the side
3. Slip the loop of pig catcher over the snout (upper jaw behind tusks)
4. Tighten the loop gently but firmly
5. Control the pig by holding the handle steadily
6. Perform required operation (treatment/vaccination)
7. Release the snare slowly after completion
8. Ensure pig is calm before letting it go

7. Procedure of Casting (Using Rope)

1. Place rope around snout (behind tusks)
2. Apply gentle pressure to control head
3. Pass rope around body and legs if required
4. Pull rope to bring pig into lying position (side)
5. Secure limbs carefully
6. Perform procedure
7. Release ropes slowly after completion