A COMPARISON OF A NEW COMPOUND VALNEMULIN (ECONOR® - NOVARTIS) AND TIAMULIN ADMINISTERED IN-FEED FOR THE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF EXPERIMENTALLY INDUCED SWINE DYSENTERY
M.R. Burrows, J.H. Morgan, D.G.S. Burch and P.H. Ripley

Abstract
Two trials were carried out to evaluate the efficacy of valnemulin, a new pleuromutilin antibiotic, for the prevention and the treatment of swine dysentery. In the prevention trial, groups of nine pigs were challenged with 2 x 1010 Brachyspira hyodysenteriae on 2 consecutive days and then allocated to one of the following treatment groups: valnemulin at 0, 5, 10, 20, 30 and 40ppm in the feed, and tiamulin at 30ppm. Medication was given for 21 days after infection and all pigs were autopsied at the end of this period. Valnemulin, at 10ppm and above, proved very effective in preventing clinical swine dysentery and the shedding of spirochaetes, except in one pig in the valnemulin 30ppm group, that also had a concurrent E. coli infection. Eighty-eight per cent (8/9) of the untreated pigs developed clinical swine dysentery and 22% (2/9) of the tiamulin 30ppm group. In the treatment study, pigs were challenged as before but were allocated to one of the treatment groups, valnemulin 0, 50. 75, 100, 150 and tiamulin 100ppm, when sufficient pigs showed clinical signs of the disease. The pigs were treated for 10 days and then observed for a further 14 days prior to the termination of the trial, and then autopsied. All of the untreated pigs and 37.5% (3/8) of the tiamulin 100ppm group developed severe swine dysentery and were removed from the trial. All of the valnemulin treated pigs responded quickly to treatment, but one relapsed in the 50ppm group. B. hyodysenteriae was isolated from 62.5% (5/8) of the 50ppm valnemulin group and 12.5% (1/8) of the 75ppm group at autopsy, but not from the 100 or 150ppm valnemulin groups.

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EFFECTS OF WELFARE ON METHODS OF PRODUCTION AND THE ECONOMICS OF THE UK PIG INDUSTRY
R.H.C. Penny and H.J. Guise

Abstract
This paper provides a brief account of the recovery and subsequent relapse of the UK pig industry following its forced downturn during the 1939-1945 World War. The development of more intensive husbandry methods, the rise of the "Animal Welfare Lobby" in opposition to this so-called "Factory Farming," and the response of government to the pressures created by this lobby, are discussed.

The mass of legislation enacted has already created severe problems for our pig producers, and there are threats of still more to come. Some of the changes to production systems enforced by this legislation are outlined, and some of the costs involved are estimated.

Finally, the results of a number of legal cases arising from failure of those involved to comply with one or other of the new rules and regulations, have been used to illustrate some of the difficulties involved in the interpretation of the Law.

The UK pig industry is suffering a dramatic decline which many believe could prove fatal.

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This section includes the Proceedings of the Pig Veterinary Society meeting held at Bosworth Hall Hotel, Market Bosworth, Warwickshire, on 11th and 12th November 1999

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MANAGEMENT, MOTIVATION, TEAM BUILDING AND COMPUTERS
G.M. Cooper

Abstract
Communications in veterinary practice is a subject that most are acutely aware of - probably because it is one in which most people fail. It is something that everyone is called upon to do every minute of every day, at home, at work and at play, and it is something in which there seems to be little, if any formal training - and yet one's whole professional existence relies on such skills. In this paper the management of a practice will be considered, not from the financial or marketing angle, but from the point of view of sharing and disseminating information between the staff, and also with the clientele of a practice. Motivation will also be considered in relation to employees, as well as to professional and personal partners. The use of Information Technology - computers to the older generation - both in practice and the Internet is touched on, with particular reference as to whose job it is, or whose job it should be, within a veterinary practice to use this resource.

With respect to all of the foregoing, the concept of building a team to be proud of is examined, i.e. one that functions fully and effectively in every situation to the satisfaction of all. And, yes, pigs MIGHT fly! The first and final mention of the "P" word has just taken place.

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HOUSING AND MANAGEMENT OF PIGS IN LARGE SOCIAL GROUPS
S.A. Edwards and S.P. Turner

Abstract
This paper reviews knowledge on the use of housing systems involving large social groups of pigs which are being increasingly used in many stages of production. It deals with systems for mating, pregnant sows, weaners and finishing pigs, drawing on information from both controlled experimental studies and commercial farm experience. This highlights the current ignorance about both the fundamental aspects of social organisation within such systems and the optimal practical recommendations for housing design and management.

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REAL-TIME PRODUCTION PERFORMANCE MONITORING
N. Bird and H.G. Crabtree

Abstract
During the last few years reliable and affordable retrieval and distribution of production data from sites has become possible. This will lead to further innovation in climate control and provide the starting point for improved production management. In reviewing a commercially available system, the importance of having 24-hour "surveillance" is demonstrated.

Continuous monitoring of water use is of particular interest in relation to the behaviour and health of the pig, giving a greatly improved insight into the interaction between animal and environment. A clear link between water use and air quality can be demonstrated and may lead to new ways of regulating ventilation. The intimate relationship between water and feed intake could ensure early action is taken to improve productivity.

Production data alone, without the knowledge of what it means in a particular circumstance, is worthless. The veterinary surgeon has a role to play in adding value to the data flow and building a "knowledge system" for his clients.

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POST-WEANING MULTISYSTEMIC WASTING SYNDROME IN THE PIG: A NEW CHALLENGE FOR VETERINARY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE
F. Madec, E. Albina, R. Cariolet, L. Hamon, D. Mahe, C. Truong, A. Jestin, N. Amenna and H. Morvan

Abstract
PMWS (Post-weaning Multi-systemic Wasting Syndrome) is described through a follow-up study carried out in a group of 12 severely affected farrow-to-finish farms. The clinical signs and the lesions found were consistent with those reported elsewhere. The preliminary epidemiology showed a litter effect in the susceptibility to exhibit PMWS. It was also surprising to notice the absence of detrimental consequences on reproductive function in the sows. PMWS was observed on farms that were PRRS negative, thus disproving that PRRS virus plays a major role in the condition. On the other hand, the role of management and husbandry is outlined and strongly suggests a complex aetiology for PMWS. The role of porcine circovirus type 2 in PMWS aetiology and the difficulty in accurately reaching a diagnosis in the field are discussed.

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NEW AND EMERGING DISEASES (HOW? WHY? AND WHEN?) OF FARM ANIMALS WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE PIG
S.H. Done

Abstract
This paper takes a candid look at so-called new diseases currently reported world-wide. Such diseases are examined in detail by the author, with regard to appearance, location, husbandry, treatment response, drug resistance and host susceptibility. The conclusion reached is that many of these emerging diseases are merely old diseases in new guises.

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NEW AND EMERGING INFECTIONS OF MAN
C.A. Hart, M. Bennett and M. Begon

Abstract
Each year sees the addition of previously unknown pathogens to the vast number already affecting the human race. New or re-emerging diseases caused by such micro-organisms are described by the authors, who also review many of the factors influencing their spread. Not least, the complex interaction between these pathogens and their hosts, both human and animal, is highlighted in this paper, with the prediction that more infections will manifest themselves, as social relationships and livestock management systems continue to change.

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CONTROLLING ILEITIS IN THE 'COLITIS' COMPLEX
D.G.S. Burch

Abstract
In this paper, the author takes a wide-ranging look at Proliferative Enteropathy (P.E.), covering in detail all salient aspects of this important, wide-spread disease. Its clinical manifestations and economic implications are fully recorded and extensive references made to the many trials into the use and efficacy of the various drugs currently employed in the control of this condition.

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STRATEGIES FOR THE PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF RESPIRATORY DISEASES IN PIGS
S.H. Done and D.G.S. Burch

Abstract
The authors of this paper set out a comprehensive and lucid review of the many vexing problems associated with porcine respiratory disease in this country. All aspects are examined in meticulous detail and with particular regard to the control methods, open to farmer and practitioner alike, with an ultimate view of enhancing overall unit production in the face of these diseases. Management, control of environment, pathogenesis, chemotherapy and prophylaxis, with especial reference to the role of vaccination, are looked at in turn and practical advice is given on achieving the desired objectives.

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SKIN DISEASES NOTIFIABLE
J.M. Owen

Abstract
The manifestation of skin lesions in certain Notifiable Diseases, their appearance and their relative importance in the diagnosis of those diseases, are dealt with concisely and in detail by the author.

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PORCINE PARAMYXOVIRUS (BLUE EYE DISEASE)
E. Corona

Abstract
The incidence of Blue Eye Disease in Mexico, together with its pathogenesis and economic importance, are described by the author. Currently used diagnostic tests and the possibility of vaccination, as a future means of control, are also touched on.

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COCCIDIOSIS IN THE PIG - PREVENTIVE MEASURES
W.J. Smith

Abstract
A major scourge of young pigs, Coccidiosis still poses problems with regard to its effective control. The author looks at the practical aspects of dealing with such disease outbreaks and outlines positive measures that should be adopted to eliminate it from a herd.

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