Canadian hog producers are taking an active role in animal welfare on their farms and collectively as an industry. A national Animal Care Assessment program sets out animal care requirements and an oversight system ensures the requirements are being met.

The current focus for the industry is the review of the existing Code of practice for pigs. A revised Code will update guidelines for pig care on housing, health, nutrition and other animal husbandry practices through a multi-stakeholder process.

“As producers, we are always working to ensure the best care for our animals,“ says Jean-Guy Vincent, President of the Canadian Pork Council. “Updating the Code makes the approach current. If significant changes are determined, we must have the support of many players to implement them - the burden cannot be handled by farmers alone.“

Producers are the key in providing excellent animal care. Simply mandating practices is not the answer. Producer buy-in and engagement is critical; it is farmers that truly know what is workable on the farm. This is the direction that will be best for all, including the animals.