This might only apply to Scotland, not had time to check yet
We took some pigs in this morning (Large Blacks, for bacon
) and the lady in the office was telling us that from 1st of June any pigs going for slaughter, who were born outside, will need to be tested for trichonella (I've definitely spelt that wrong - sorry !) Previously it's only ever been sows that were tested at ours.
We always bring pigs in to the shed at farrowing time, so are okay from that point of view, but I know many people farrow outside and just wanted to make you aware of it.
Obviously it doesn't affect us (pig keepers) directly, but it does mean more work and paperwork for the abattoirs....which in turn, might lead to slaughter prices going up
So, if you farrow your pigs outside, it might be worth checking if you're area will be affected - they very well might not be, I don't want anyone to panic, but I wanted to let you know anyway. It might just be Scotland that this is happening in - but it's a heads up for you all anyway.
Karen x